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Helper Machine Operator Jobs in Harrisonburg, VA

Process Operator

Linville, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

Our unique scale allows us to make entire industries less wasteful and more sustainable, helping ... Monitor machinery; bring all problems to attention of manager. * Assures equipment and work area is ...

Process Operator

Linville, VA · On-site

$21.63 - $22.38/hr

Our unique scale allows us to make entire industries less wasteful and more sustainable, helping ... Monitor machinery; bring all problems to attention of manager. * Assures equipment and work area is ...

Process Operator

Linville, VA · On-site

$21.63 - $22.38/hr

Our unique scale allows us to make entire industries less wasteful and more sustainable, helping ... Monitor machinery; bring all problems to attention of manager.Assures equipment and work area is ...

Core Saw Operator

Stanley, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Knowledge of all aspects of the core saw machine, including maintenance, blade changes, mechanical ... help our customers win and grow. We are global in scope, human in scale with more than 25,000 ...

Core Saw Operator

Stanley, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Knowledge of all aspects of the core saw machine, including maintenance, blade changes, mechanical ... help our customers win and grow. We are global in scope, human in scale with more than 25,000 ...

Machine Learning Researcher

Broadway, VA · On-site

$154K - $213K/yr

Morgan Stanley is an industry leader in financial services, known for mobilizing capital to help ... and operating problems. Please see our research papers for more: What you'll bring to the role:

Wastewater Operator

Linville, VA · On-site

$20.25 - $28/hr

Our unique scale allows us to make entire industries less wasteful and more sustainable, helping ... Operates a computer and other office machinery. Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl : Must be able to ...

Our unique scale allows us to make entire industries less wasteful and more sustainable, helping ... Operate machinery used in production process or assist machine operators. * Place products in ...

CNC Technician I

Staunton, VA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

You will work with specialized equipment, perform machine adjustments, and help ensure our products ... Experience setting up and operating CNC-controlled equipment is preferred, but not required.

Retail Sales Associate

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$14 - $16.25/hr

... and operating copiers, fax machines, binding equipment, laminating machines, and point-of-sale ... helpful demeanor, and a professional appearance. He or she must be a fast learner who makes an ...

Showing results 21-40

Helper Machine Operator information

See Harrisonburg, VA salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do helper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for helper machine operator in Harrisonburg, VA is $16.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $17.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a helper machine operator do?

As a Helper Machine Operator, your daily tasks usually involve assisting the main machine operator by preparing materials, loading and unloading machines, and monitoring equipment for proper operation. You may also be responsible for basic maintenance, cleaning the work area, and reporting any issues to supervisors. Collaboration with other team members, such as quality control staff and maintenance technicians, is common to ensure efficient production and adherence to safety standards.

What is a helper machine operator?

Helper Machine Operators assist main machine operators in manufacturing and production settings. Their duties typically include setting up machinery, loading materials, monitoring machine performance, and performing basic maintenance or cleaning. They also help ensure products meet quality standards and may record production data. This role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently. No formal education is usually required, but on-the-job training is common.

What is the difference between Helper Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectHelper Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; certification or training often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, construction sitesFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with setup, cleaning, and basic operationOperate machinery independently, monitor processes, troubleshoot

The Helper Machine Operator typically assists with basic tasks and supports the Machine Operator, who handles more complex machinery operation. Both roles are common in manufacturing environments and require similar credentials, but the Machine Operator has more responsibility and independence in operating equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a helper machine operator?

To thrive as a Helper Machine Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with common manufacturing tools, basic computer systems, and sometimes forklift certification is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in supporting machine operators and maintaining workflow. These skills ensure safe operations, minimize downtime, and contribute to efficient production in manufacturing environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Harrisonburg, VA? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Harrisonburg, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Helper Machine Operator jobs in Harrisonburg, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Helper Machine Operator jobs in Harrisonburg, VA are:
What cities near Harrisonburg, VA are hiring for Helper Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Harrisonburg, VA with the most Helper Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Helper Machine Operator job openings in Harrisonburg, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,893 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Darling Ingredients rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 436 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Company Details

Darling Ingredients repurposes and recycles materials from the animal agriculture and food industries - transforming them into essential ingredients that do everything from feeding animals to fertilizing crops to fueling planes and nourishing people. We're the number one publicly traded company of our kind, operating a global family of brands and businesses that span more than 260 facilities in over 15 countries. Our unique scale allows us to make entire industries less wasteful and more sustainable, helping move the world toward a more circular economy.

Darling Ingredients offers full time employees a full suite of benefits including but not limited to the following: 401(k), Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, and Paid Time Off.


Job Summary

The Process Operator is responsible for the operation of the computer controlled process equipment, cooker, machinery, and evaluation of any process problems in addition to performing product quality testing.

HOURS: M-F 3:30pm-12am

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

  • Oversees rendering process from raw material bin to finished goods storage.
  • Maintain steady flow of material to cooker.
  • Maintain cooker temperature, rate, and steam at peak operating levels.
  • Monitor evaporation rate to maintain rate per hour according to requirements.
  • Control flow of material to presses and to finished goods storage.
  • Monitor control panel and various gauges to accomplish process.
  • Operate pollution control system including air/odor control system and wastewater control.
  • Responsible for boiler start up and operation.
  • Perform periodic preventative maintenance on all equipment in process.
  • Monitor machinery; bring all problems to attention of manager.
  • Assures equipment and work area is clean after each shift.
  • Maintains safety as top priority in accordance with all company safety rules and regulations.
  • As trained, be aware of and responsible for their role in Darling's food safety program.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Manufacturing, industrial, or agricultural experience preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior experience in a rendering facility or production environment preferred.
  • Knowledge of mechanical rendering and or process equipment.
  • Good mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting; skilled in general mechanics and safe operation of equipment.
  • Ability to deal with minor problems involving equipment or various situations.
  • Ability to work nights and/or weekends as needed.
  • Works well with others in a team environment.

The information contained in this job description is intended to describe the essential job functions required of those assigned to this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the job. Please note that management retains the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. The ability to competently perform all the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, demonstrated commitment to effective customer service delivery, integrity, and the ability to work productively as a member of a team or work group are basic requirements of all positions at Darling Ingredients.


Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military service, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and local law. Know Your Rights: If you would like more information, please click on the link and paste into your browser: https://www.eeoc.gov/poster


Working Conditions and Physical Demands

The physical demands and work environment factors described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the main duties of this job.

Working Environment

None

Occasionally = up to 20%

Frequently = 21% to 50%

Constantly = at least 51%

Exposed to unpleasant or disagreeable physical environments such as high noise level, strong odors, and/or exposure to heat and cold

Exposed to bio hazardous conditions

Exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals which mandate attention to safety considerations

Exposed to Electrical hazards; risk of electrical shock

Handles or works with potentially dangerous equipment

Travels to offsite locations

Other (please describe):

Physical Demands

None

Occasionally = up to 20%

Frequently = 21% to 50%

Constantly = at least 51%

Sit: Must be able to remain in a stationary position.

Walk: Must be able to move about inside/outside office or work location.

Use hands to finger, handle or feel: Operates a computer and other office machinery.

Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl: Must be able to position one's self to maintain computers in the lab, including under desks and in the server closet.

Climb or balance: Must be able to ascend/descend on a ladder.

Talk, hear, taste, smell: Must be able to use senses to; effectively communicate with co-workers and clients and detect hazardous conditions.


Weight and Force Demands

None

Occasionally = up to 20%

Frequently = 21% to 50%

Constantly = at least 51%

Up to 10 pounds

Up to 25 pounds

Up to 50 pounds

Up to 100 pounds

More than 100 pounds

Vision Demands

Required

No special vision requirements

Close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less)

Distance vision (Clear vision at 20 feet or more)

Color vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors)

Peripheral vision

Depth perception

Ability to adjust focus



What Darling Ingredients employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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