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Helper Machine Operator Jobs in West Columbia, SC

U.S. Silica Company

Operator

West Columbia, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

The Operator operates multiple production units, monitor control systems, and troubleshoots basic ... As Wet Process Helper: * Perform all duties in Wet Process Machine Patrol checklist (including pump ...

U.S. Silica Company

Operator

West Columbia, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

The Operator operates multiple production units, monitor control systems, and troubleshoots basic ... As Wet Process Helper: * Perform all duties in Wet Process Machine Patrol checklist (including pump ...

Condustrial, Inc.

Be Seen First

Press Brake Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Loads sheet material onto press machine. * Compares job router to customer supplied print to verify ... We specialize in placing skilled construction and manufacturing personnel to help our clients ...

Amcor

Production Lead - Injection Team Lead

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Operates machines and completes all duties of the machine operator in their absence. * Provides ... We champion our customers and help them succeed. We play to win - adapting quickly in an ...

Amcor plc

Production Lead - BM

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Operates machines and completes all duties of the machine operator in their absence. * Provides ... We champion our customers and help them succeed. We play to win - adapting quickly in an ...

Amcor

Production Lead - BM

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

Operates machines and completes all duties of the machine operator in their absence. * Provides ... We champion our customers and help them succeed. We play to win - adapting quickly in an ...

City of Columbia

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, LEAD

Columbia, SC · On-site

$39K - $48K/yr

Three (3) years of relevant prior experience in all aspects of operating a ten cubic yard, rear ... helpers or assistants; Ability to lead, operate or repair complex machinery or equipment that ...

City of Columbia, SC

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, LEAD

Columbia, SC · On-site

$39K - $48K/yr

Three (3) years of relevant prior experience in all aspects of operating a ten cubic yard, rear ... helpers or assistants; * Ability to lead, operate or repair complex machinery or equipment that ...

Thrive Restaurant Group

Dishwasher

West Columbia, SC · On-site

$9.75 - $12.50/hr

NOW HIRING FULL TIME & PART TIME DISHWASHER / DISH MACHINE OPERATORS Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar/Thrive Restaurant Group is looking for the next team member to join our team and help love ...

Thomas Concrete, Inc.

Batch Operator - Columbia

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

You'll have the opportunity to grow professionally and help build a better future. Come and make an ... Assists the plant manager in maintaining proper stock inventories (raw materials, machinery/vehicle ...

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All JobsHelper Machine Operator JobsHelper Machine Operator Jobs in West Columbia, SC

Helper Machine Operator information

See West Columbia, SC salary details

$10

$16

$20

How much do helper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for helper machine operator in West Columbia, SC is $16.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $17.84 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 cities near West Columbia, SC are hiring for Helper Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near West Columbia, SC with the most Helper Machine Operator job openings:

Helper Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Helper Machine Operator job openings in West Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,683 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Operator

U.S. Silica Company

West Columbia, SC • On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

U.S. Silica rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 41 rated mining

Job description

The Operator operates multiple production units, monitor control systems, and troubleshoots basic process issues with limited supervision.

U.S. Silica is a leading producer of industrial minerals essential to modern life. With $1B+ in annual revenue, 26 production facilities, and industry-leading last-mile logistics for the oil & gas sector, we supply high-quality silica, diatomaceous earth, clay, and other materials to industries ranging from energy and construction to food & beverage.

As a portfolio company of Apollo Global Management, we are positioned for strategic growth in both our Oil & Gas and Industrial segments. For more than 100 years, our products and innovations have helped make the world cleaner, safer, and more energy-efficient.
U.S. Silica is an equal opportunity employer for all without regard to race, gender, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. U.S. Silica is a smoke- and drug-free workplace.
  • High school diploma or general education diploma (GED) required. 
  • High level of safety and quality.
  • Ability to multi-task at a fast-pace (at times), work in outside conditions during all seasons, climb multi-levels by stairs & ladders, work from elevated platforms, use hand tools (shovel, hammer, wrenches, etc.).
  • Good problem-solving skills.
  • Mine Safety and Health (MSHA) Knowledge - Preferred.
  • Forklift experience - Preferred.
  • Computer Software - Preferred.
  • Warehouse experience - Preferred.
  • Safety Responsibilities:
    • Conduct pre-shift and post-shift inspection on all production equipment during your shift daily and record on daily confirmation sheets.
    • Complete pre-operation equipment inspection sheets on any equipment used during your shift daily.
    • Follow all company safety and health policies.
    • MSHA, US Silica, Columbia Plant and all Task Training to be completed prior to the performance of your daily job responsibilities.
  • Environmental Responsibilities:
    • Keep all high traffic areas clean and clear of any trash, debris, tools, hoses, or other miscellaneous items (use proper cleaning procedures for oil and other lubricants leaks and spills).
    • Follow and maintain all applicable standards related to Environmental Compliance.
  • Quality Responsibilities:
    • Perform quality checks while operating equipment on a scheduled basis to maintain quality specifications.
    • Make adjustments to equipment accordingly.
  • Operator:
    • As bulk loader:
      • Inspect all incoming trucks and railcars and determine if cleaning is required. Wash out trucks or railcars if determined it is needed.
      • Load all incoming trucks and railcars with correct product. For any railcar loaded, fill out the Data. 
      • Collection Card with loading information.
      • Clean any spills on or around trucks and railcars as well as the loading area.
    • As Wet Process Helper:
      • Perform all duties in Wet Process Machine Patrol checklist (including pump checks, reagent checks, etc.).
      • Clear any machinery malfunctions and restart as needed.
      • Conduct all in process control tests in wet process.
      • Collect all in process and finished product samples in wet process.
      • Clean any spills and wash down wet process as needed.
    • As Millman:
      • Perform all duties in Milling Machine Patrol checklist (including mill and separator checks, greasing, and lubing of equipment, etc.).
      • Clear any machinery malfunctions and restart as needed.
      • Conduct all in process control tests in milling.
      • Collect all in process and finished product samples in milling.
      • Clean any spills and wash down milling as needed.
    • Working Relationships:
      • Maintain strong working relationships within the Plant.
      • Maintain supportive and respectful working relationships with all U.S. Silica employees and departments.
      • Maintain professional relationship with all contractors, vendors, truck drivers and site visitors.

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