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Machine Assistant Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

MACHINE OPERATOR

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Must be able to prepare, operate, and maintain production machinery to manufacture concrete ... This position also requires employee to operate forklift on a regular basis and assist with the ...

MACHINE OPERATOR

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Must be able to prepare, operate, and maintain production machinery to manufacture concrete ... This position also requires employee to operate forklift on a regular basis and assist with the ...

Machine Shop

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$16.28/hr

Machine Operator Assistants Wanted at Sustainable Plastics Leader! Do you have strong attention to detail, a great team work ethic, and a desire to secure a dependable night-shift routine? American ...

Dish Machine Operator (DMO)

Gig Harbor, WA ยท On-site

$17.13 - $21.50/hr

Monitor machine performance and report maintenance issues promptly * Assist with organizing and storing clean kitchenware * Follow all health and safety guidelines, including proper chemical handling ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Assistant information

See Tacoma, WA salary details

$14

$19

$24

How much do machine assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine assistant in Tacoma, WA is $19.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $20.67 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 are the most commonly searched types of Machine jobs in Tacoma, WA?

The most popular types of Machine jobs in Tacoma, WA are:

What cities near Tacoma, WA are hiring for Machine Assistant jobs?

Cities near Tacoma, WA with the most Machine Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Assistant job openings in Tacoma, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,326 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Experience Door Shop Machine Operator

Frontier Door & Cabinet

Tacoma, WA โ€ข On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Frontier Door and Cabinet is a premier provider of interior and exterior door products and high-quality cabinets for the commercial construction industry. With over 28 years of experience, we are the leader in commercial and multi-family residential doors, cabinets, and hardware. Our commitment to excellence, transparency, integrity, and respect guides everything we do. We offer a supportive work environment where personal growth and continuous improvement are encouraged. Join us in our mission to deliver top-notch products and customer service from concept to completion.

We are seeking an experienced Door Shop Employee to join our production team in Tacoma, Washington. The ideal candidate has a minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in a pre-hung door production facility and is proficient in operating various Norfield door machinery including Magnums, Strike Routers, Eagles, or equivalent equipment. Experience with Weeke Point-to-Point CNC machines and familiarity with Wood WOP software is highly desirable.

Responsibilities:

  • Set up and operate door machining equipment (Norfield Magnums, Strike Routers, Eagles)
  • Accurately machine and assemble pre-hung door units weighing up to 120 lbs to precise specifications
  • Maintain machinery, troubleshoot issues, and ensure smooth operations
  • Monitor product quality and ensure adherence to company standards
  • Collaborate effectively with the production team to meet daily output goals
  • Assist with inventory management and maintain accurate records
  • Perform quality control checks and address issues promptly
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of work area and machinery
  • Read and interpret Bill of Materials (BOMs) and production paperwork
  • Use hand tools and interpret hardware schematics accurately

Qualifications:

  • Minimum 5 years of experience in a pre-hung door production environment
  • Proficient with Norfield door machinery or similar equipment
  • CNC machinery experience, specifically Weeke Point-to-Points, is a strong plus
  • Familiarity with Wood WOP software advantageous
  • Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team environment
  • Reliable and punctual with a strong work ethic
  • Ability to lift and move materials up to 120 pounds regularly
  • Experience with inventory management and control processes
  • Strong communication skills and ability to coordinate with other departments effectively
  • Proficiency in the use of various hand tools
  • Strong math skills and ability to perform precise measurements
  • Forklift certification or experience is a plus

Skills and Abilities:

  • Proficiency in basic mathematics and the ability to read a tape measure accurately.
  • Demonstrated situational awareness in detecting any deviations in the functioning of the machinery.
  • Ability to understand, read, and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Commitment to prioritizing safety at all times while working in a manufacturing environment.

Physical demandsThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Standing approximately 8-10 hours per day, 5 days a week, with the possibility of working 6 days a week based on business needs.
  • Fine motor abilities required to handle objects, tools, and controls.
  • Specific vision abilities, including close vision for reading fine print.
  • Regular bending, squatting, pushing, and lifting objects weighing up to 80 pounds on and off the machine, which can occur up to 100 times per shift.
  • Use of conveyance systems and rollers to move pieces efficiently.

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Exposure to moving mechanical equipment and vibration from machinery.
  • Loud noise levels in the production area; ear protection provided.
  • Potential exposure to hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
  • Sawdust present; eye protection required at all times.

Safety Equipment: Frontier Door and Cabinet’s Safety Program and all established safety rules must be followed, and equipment used where required. This will include safety glasses, safety shoes, and hearing protection (when needed) while on the production floor.

  • Demonstrated situational awareness in detecting any deviations in the functioning of the machinery.
  • Ability to understand, read, and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Commitment to prioritizing safety at all times while working in a manufacturing environment.

We offer competitive pay, a supportive work environment, and opportunities for growth within our company.

Benefits:

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Life insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • 401(k)