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Machine Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Pratt Industries

Machine Helper 1st Shift

Sandston, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Maintain a safe and clean work area. * Assist in ensuring the proper mechanical set up and running of the machine. * Assist in ensuring that all orders produced are completed according to ...

Pratt Industries

Machine Helper 2nd Shift

Sandston, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Maintain a safe and clean work area. * Assist in ensuring the proper mechanical set up and running of the machine. * Assist in ensuring that all orders produced are completed according to ...

Pratt Industries

Machine Helper 1st Shift

Sandston, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Maintain a safe and clean work area. * Assist in ensuring the proper mechanical set up and running of the machine. * Assist in ensuring that all orders produced are completed according to ...

Pratt Industries

Machine Helper 2nd Shift

Sandston, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Maintain a safe and clean work area. * Assist in ensuring the proper mechanical set up and running of the machine. * Assist in ensuring that all orders produced are completed according to ...

ColonialWebb

Welder Helper

Richmond, VA

$18 - $21/hr

... machine * Assist with threading pipe, using pipe threading machine * Assist with joining piping using welded, grooved, threaded, soldered, brazed, fused, or cemented joints * Operate shop forklift to ...

ColonialWebb

Welder Helper

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

... machine * Assist with threading pipe, using pipe threading machine * Assist with joining piping using welded, grooved, threaded, soldered, brazed, fused, or cemented joints * Operate shop forklift to ...

Novolex

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate is a $21.86 -Paid Weekly! * Eligible for annual wage increases * Eligible for monthly bonus based upon ...

Novolex

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate is a $21.86 -Paid Weekly! * Eligible for annual wage increases * Eligible for monthly bonus based upon ...

Novolex

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate is a $21.86 -Paid Weekly! * Eligible for annual wage increases * Eligible for monthly bonus based upon ...

Novolex

Machine Operator Assistant

Grottoes, VA

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Machine Operator Assistant| Grottoes, Virginia| Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate is a $21.86 -Paid Weekly! * Eligible for annual wage increases * Eligible for monthly bonus based upon ...

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Machine Assistant information

What is a machine assistant?

Machine assistants are workers who help operate, maintain, and monitor machinery in various industries, such as manufacturing, packaging, or construction. They typically assist machine operators by preparing materials, loading and unloading machines, performing routine maintenance, and ensuring equipment runs smoothly. Machine assistants play a key role in supporting efficient production processes and workplace safety. Their responsibilities may vary depending on the industry and the type of machinery they work with.

What is the difference between Machine Assistant vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine AssistantMachine Operator
Required CertificationsBasic technical training, safety certificationsMore advanced certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentAssists in machine setup and maintenance, often in manufacturing or production settingsOperates machinery directly, monitors performance, and adjusts controls
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly lines, and production facilitiesPrimarily in manufacturing, construction, and industrial plants

While both roles support manufacturing processes, a Machine Assistant typically assists with setup, maintenance, and support tasks, whereas a Machine Operator directly controls and manages machinery during operation. The roles differ mainly in responsibility level and required certifications, with Machine Operators generally needing more specialized training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Assistant, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and possibly certifications such as OSHA training are commonly required. Reliability, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you efficiently support machine operators and maintain a safe work environment. These skills ensure smooth production processes, reduce downtime, and uphold workplace safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by machine assistants when supporting production machinery, and how can these be managed?

Machine Assistants often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting minor mechanical issues, maintaining consistent production speed, and ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed. Adapting to rapidly changing production schedules and learning to operate different types of machinery can also be demanding. These challenges can be managed by proactively communicating with supervisors, following maintenance schedules, and seeking training opportunities to become more familiar with various equipment. Team collaboration and attention to detail are key to effectively overcoming daily obstacles in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Machine jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Machine Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Machine Assistant job openings:
Machine Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Machine Helper 1st Shift

Pratt Industries

Sandston, VA • On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Pratt Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 108 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Position: Machine Helper

Shift: 1st

Location: Sandston, VA

Job Type: Full Time, Hourly

Perks of Pratt:

Within 1 Month: Eligible for insurance benefits

At 3 Months: 401k with partial match

At 6 Months: Paid vacation days

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Vision insurance

Unbox your career, click apply to start the process!

Job Description

Overview:

  • Assists the Operator in overseeing all aspects of machine operation and assists in the manufacture of the items produced while assigned to the machine.
  • Acts as the Operator when the Operator is absent.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Follow and ensure that fellow crew members adhere to all applicable safe work policies & procedures.
  • Maintain a safe and clean work area.
  • Assist in ensuring the proper mechanical set up and running of the machine.
  • Assist in ensuring that all orders produced are completed according to specifications provided.
  • Maintain acceptable production rates.
  • Complete all paper work and data entry as required.
  • Assist in the training of crew members.
  • Other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications:

  • Must be able to assist the operator in completing the mechanical set up.
  • Must be able to learn how to operate the feed, print, die cutting and delivery sections of the machine.
  • Must be willing to be trained as an operator for vacations, sickness, etc.
  • Must have a reasonable knowledge of current production software.

Required Skills:

  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Intermediate computer skills
  • Strong math/algebra skills
  • Problem solving and critical thinking

Educational Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent experience preferred, not required.

Physical Demands:

  • The employee is regularly required to walk and talk and hear.
  • The employee is frequently required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee is occasionally required to sit.
  • Vision requirements include: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

  • Work space is not climate controlled and can reach both hot and cold extremes (30 degrees - 110 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 6,500 highly skilled employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability. Pratt Industries is one of the largest corrugated packaging companies in America, with sophisticated manufacturing facilities in more than a dozen states. The company operates three of the most modern, cost effective paper mills in the country, as well as a series of sheet and box plants strategically placed throughout the United States offering a wide range of creative packaging solutions. Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by "harvesting the urban forest."

Pratt Industries offers competitive compensation plans with incentive opportunities, full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA, All State, Pre-Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, and paid holidays.

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