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Helper Machine Operator Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

Quanex

Machine Operator

Statesville, NC

$19 - $22.50/hr

Quanex is looking for a Machine Operator to join our 2nd Shift team located in Statesville, NC ... Able to speak up and ask for help or clarification if needed. * Must be able to work with others ...

Quanex

Machine Operator

Statesville, NC

$19 - $22.50/hr

Quanex is looking for a Machine Operator to join our 2nd Shift team located in Statesville, NC ... Able to speak up and ask for help or clarification if needed. * Must be able to work with others ...

Quanex

Machine Operator

Statesville, NC

$19 - $22.50/hr

Quanex is looking for a Machine Operator to join our 2nd Shift team located in Statesville, NC ... Able to speak up and ask for help or clarification if needed. * Must be able to work with others ...

Quanex

Machine Operator

Statesville, NC · On-site

$19 - $22.50/hr

Quanex is looking for a Machine Operator to join our 2nd Shift team located in Statesville, NC ... Able to speak up and ask for help or clarification if needed. * Must be able to work with others ...

Sealed Air Corporation

Machine Operator

Hudson, NC · On-site

$22.55/hr

... help create a global supply chain that is touchless, safer, less wasteful, and more resilient. We ... Set Machine up to SOC using the appropriate conditions. • Use a computer system to set run ...

Sealed Air Corporation

Machine Operator

Hudson, NC

$22.55/hr

... help create a global supply chain that is touchless, safer, less wasteful, and more resilient. We ... Set Machine up to SOC using the appropriate conditions. • Use a computer system to set run ...

Pratt Industries

Converting Machine Operator

Statesville, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Converting Machine Operator REPORTS TO: Converting Supervisor SUMMARY: Responsible for all ... Train and assist First and Second Helpers with job duties on the machine. Cross-train on other ...

Pratt Industries

Converting Machine Operator

Statesville, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Converting Machine Operator REPORTS TO: Converting Supervisor SUMMARY: Responsible for all ... Train and assist First and Second Helpers with job duties on the machine. Cross-train on other ...

Dixon

Screw Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Dallas, NC

Screw Machine Operator Location: 2925 Chief Court, Dallas, NC 28034 Shift Hours: 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM ... Bring your curiosity, reliability, and teamwork mindset, and we'll help you build a solid career in ...

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All JobsHelper Machine Operator JobsHelper Machine Operator Jobs in Hickory, NC

Helper Machine Operator information

See Hickory, NC salary details

$10

$16

$20

How much do helper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for helper machine operator in Hickory, NC is $16.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $17.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Hickory, NC?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Helper Machine Operator jobs in Hickory, NC?

For Helper Machine Operator jobs in Hickory, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Helper Machine Operator jobs in Hickory, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Helper Machine Operator jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Helper Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Helper Machine Operator job openings:

Helper Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Helper Machine Operator job openings in Hickory, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,519 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Machine Operator

Quanex Building Products

Statesville, NC

$19 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Quanex rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

461st of 544 rated manufacturers

Job description

Quanex is looking for a Machine Operator to join our 2nd Shift team located in Statesville, NC.

Join a well-established industry that provides a structured pathway for long-term growth in a technically skilled, high-demand field. Build expertise through hands-on experience and formal training, developing the knowledge and skills needed to advance in your career.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 2:00 pm – 10:30 pm

Hourly Rate is $19 to $22.50 + $1/hour for shift premium for 2nd shift.

 We Offer You!

  • Competitive Salary and bonus potential
  • 401K with 5% company match, yours to keep after 2 years
  • 15% immediate return if you participate in the company’s ESPP
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Plans
  • Employer paid disability plans and life insurance
  • Paid Time Off & Holidays
  • Tuition support for degree and continuous education
  • Employee Resource Groups focused on employee empowerment
  • Monthly leadership Webinars (include for supervisory positions)
  • Air-Conditioned facility

What’s attractive about the Production Associate position?

  • Collaborative & Team-Oriented Environment
  • Weekly Access to Occupational Therapy Support
  • Opportunities to Develop Specialized Skills
  • Career Growth & Comprehensive On-the-Job Training
  • Safe working environment
  • Stable work schedule

What Success Looks Like:

  • Operate/monitor multiple pieces of equipment during operation to ensure quality production and minimal unplanned stops.
  • Communicate with team members and support teams to ensure continuous production of the correct product at high quality levels with minimal wasted time and materials.
  • Maintain clean and safe workspace (housekeeping and sanitation) Accepts other duties assigned by the Supervisor within the scope of the position.
  • Ability to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear

What You Bring:

  • Minimum of 1 year of successful experience as a Machine Operator in manufacturing facility a plus, we will train due to the particular skills needed.
  • Good knowledge and experience working with production procedures and processes.
  • Able to identify machine or process issues and analyze for resolution. Able to speak up and ask for help or clarification if needed.
  • Must be able to work with others well. Good communication and team skills. Able to present information in a positive way. Able to communicate well to others within organization.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-speed environment, follow standardized work and adhere to safe work practices in a continuous improvement environment.
  • Perform necessary pre-operation activities to ensure proper equipment startup and operation on multiple pieces of equipment.
  • High School or GED.

About Quanex, A Part of Something Bigger

Quanex (NYSE: NX) is a global, publicly traded manufacturing company primarily serving OEMs in the fenestration, cabinetry, solar, refrigeration and outdoor products markets. We are A Part of Something Bigger by improving the performance and aesthetics of end products through continuous innovation, helping customers achieve greater production efficiencies, dedication to giving back to communities where we operate, producing shareholder value and helping our employees learn, grow, and thrive. Learn more at Quanex.com.

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