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Machine Assistant Jobs in Durham, NC (NOW HIRING)

Pratt Industries

Machine Helper 2nd Shift

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $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

Raleigh, NC

$15.50 - $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

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $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

Raleigh, NC

$15.50 - $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 ...

Zachry Group

Helper Operator 1

Roxboro, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

Identify safety risks and the precautions required to eliminate those risks. * Assist with detecting minor to major problems with machines and equipment. * Assist with disassembling, repairing and/or ...

Zachry Group

Helper Operator 1

Roxboro, NC

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

Identify safety risks and the precautions required to eliminate those risks. * Assist with detecting minor to major problems with machines and equipment. * Assist with disassembling, repairing and/or ...

Resource Label Group

Machine Bindery Support

Garner, NC · On-site

Adhere to all relevant ISO standards, company Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's), and current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP's). * Assist with setup and operation of MBO folding machines and ...

Intellectt INC

Operator 1, Machine

Mebane, NC · On-site

$19/hr

Automated Assembly Machine Operator (Operator I) Schedule: Mon-Fri 3:00 pM-11:30 PM (overtime as ... assist with basic troubleshooting within role scope. * Follow all safety, housekeeping, and ...

Mohawk Industries, Inc.

MACHINE OPERATOR

Garner, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Operate Printer/Coater equipment and assist with production activities as directed. * Understand ... Perform equipment changeovers or conversions by setting up assigned machinery for changes in ...

TekWissen LLC

Big Machine Operator

Mebane, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Start and stop the machine and assist the set-up people in their duties, starting and breaking down set-ups. * Under the direction of Set-up or Supervisor, adjust controls, remedy minor leaks, and ...

New

Eaton

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Roxboro, NC · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Eaton's IS VEH VGNA division is currently seeking a Machine Operator - 2nd Shift to join our ... To request a disability-related reasonable accommodation to assist you in your job search ...

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All JobsMachine JobsMachine Assistant JobsMachine Assistant Jobs in Durham, NC

Machine Assistant information

See Durham, NC salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do machine assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine assistant in Durham, NC is $17.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Durham, NC? The most popular types of Machine jobs in Durham, NC are:
What cities near Durham, NC are hiring for Machine Assistant jobs? Cities near Durham, NC with the most Machine Assistant job openings:
Machine Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Assistant job openings in Durham, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,285 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Machine Helper 2nd Shift

Pratt Industries

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Pratt Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 108 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Position: Machine Helper
Shift: 2nd
Location: Raleigh, NC
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 7,500 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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