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Machine Assistant Jobs in Kalamazoo, MI (NOW HIRING)

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Machine Assistant information

See Kalamazoo, MI salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do machine assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine assistant in Kalamazoo, MI is $17.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.12 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 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 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 cities near Kalamazoo, MI are hiring for Machine Assistant jobs?

Cities near Kalamazoo, MI with the most Machine Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Assistant job openings in Kalamazoo, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,425 per year, or $17 per hour.

Machine Operator III - 2nd Shift - $23.80/hr

Stryker

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

$23.80/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Stryker rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Work Flexibility: Onsite
Schedule: Monday - Friday, 2:00pm - 10:30pm, OT as needed by the business
What You Will Do:
  • Under general supervision, operate machinery and inspect machined components using precision measuring equipment while keeping accurate production records and maintenance logs
  • Adhere to site specific quality systems and processes
  • Identify and accurately record scrap, maintenance requests, and production documents
  • Operate simple manufacturing equipment, demonstrate machining/mechanical aptitude, and learn new responsibilities and tasks as needed
  • Train others on operational and/or documentation procedures as needed
  • Identify and appropriately report safety concerns, production issues, and documentation errors.
  • Assist execution of continuous improvement projects.
  • Effectively collaborate with peers, functional departments, and visitors of Stryker

What You Need:
Required
  • High School or GED
  • Manufacturing Experience

Preferred
  • 3 years CNC
  • Blueprint reading, measuring tools - calipers, micrometers, gauges

$23.80 Hourly plus bonus eligible + benefits
Travel Percentage: 0%
Stryker Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Stryker is an EO employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability.
Stryker Corporation will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.

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