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Machine Associate Jobs in Smithville, MO (NOW HIRING)

Machine Shop Support Tech Shift: 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday-Friday Pay : Starting at $22 per hour ... Financial Planning Reimbursement-Multivac will reimburse associates up to $150 annually for certain ...

Machine Shop Support Tech Shift: 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday-Friday Pay : Starting at $22 per hour ... Financial Planning Reimbursement-Multivac will reimburse associates up to $150 annually for certain ...

Warehouse Associate

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Warehouse associates are an essential part of The Home Depot s distribution network. They load and ... They safely operate forklifts or other machinery in order to complete tasks such as loading ...

Warehouse Associate

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Warehouse associates are an essential part of The Home Depot s distribution network. They load and ... They safely operate forklifts or other machinery in order to complete tasks such as loading ...

Production Machine Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$600/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associates will be operating state-of-the-art casting and punch press machinery. Responsibilities include meeting production goals; following standardized work practices, material handling; quality ...

Production Machine Operator

Kansas City, MO

$600/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associates will be operating state-of-the-art casting and punch press machinery. Responsibilities include meeting production goals; following standardized work practices, material handling; quality ...

Production Machine Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$600/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Associates will be operating state-of-the-art casting and punch press machinery. Responsibilities include meeting production goals; following standardized work practices, material handling; quality ...

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Machine Associate information

See Smithville, MO salary details

$28.7K

$121.2K

$286.4K

How much do machine associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine associate in Smithville, MO is $121,190.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $184,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine associate?

Machine Associates are entry-level or mid-level workers who operate, monitor, and maintain industrial machinery in manufacturing or production environments. They are responsible for ensuring machines run smoothly, performing basic troubleshooting, and conducting routine maintenance. Machine Associates often work alongside engineers and technicians and may be tasked with quality checks, material handling, and recording production data. This role requires attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and a willingness to learn new technical skills.

What are some common challenges machine associates face during their shifts, and how can they effectively manage them?

Machine Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent machine performance, troubleshooting minor mechanical issues, and adapting to varying production schedules. To manage these challenges effectively, it's important to develop a strong understanding of the machinery, follow safety protocols, and communicate promptly with maintenance teams when issues arise. Staying organized and proactive in performing routine checks can help minimize downtime and ensure smooth workflow throughout the shift.

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

To thrive as a Machine Associate, you need a fundamental understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, basic computer systems, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure the efficient, safe operation of machinery and contribute to consistent production quality.

What is the difference between Machine Associate vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine AssociateMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or production facilities; collaborative teamsManufacturing plants; focused on operating machinery
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in factories, warehouses, and assembly linesPrimarily in manufacturing, automotive, and industrial sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level manufacturing rolesLearning about machinery operation and safety

The main difference between a Machine Associate and a Machine Operator lies in their responsibilities and focus. Machine Associates typically assist in various production tasks and support team efforts, while Machine Operators are primarily responsible for operating specific machinery. Both roles require similar credentials and work in manufacturing environments, but Machine Operators often have more specialized training or certifications related to machinery operation.

Infographic showing various Machine Associate job openings in Smithville, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,190 per year, or $58.3 per hour.

Packaging Associate/Machine Operator

Unilever

Independence, MO

$25.48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Unilever rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

155th of 438 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Packaging Associate/Machine Operator

Location of Job: Independence, MO (Union)

A Shift: 7:00 am- 7:30 pm (Sun, Mon, Tues and every other Weds)

B Shift: 7:00 am- 7:30 pm (Thurs, Fri, Sat and every other Weds)

C Shift: 7:00 pm- 7:30 am (Sun, Mon, Tues and every other Weds)

D Shift: 7:00 pm- 7:30 am (Thurs, Fri, Sat and every other Weds)

Pay Rate - $25.48 with an additional $0.50 - $1.00 shift differential for the C/D shift assignments | Weekly pay periods

Benefit Overview

These are direct hires, full time position with a full benefits package - *Medical, Dental, & Vision plans | 401K Matching | Unilever's Employee Share Plan | Tuition Reimbursement | Paid Leaves | Monthly Bonus Payouts | Uniforms and PPE provided | $750 employee referral bonus payments | Safety shoe subsidy, prescription safety glasses discount, etc. | Onsite company store for employees to purchase Unilever products at a discount | Career Advancement Opportunities

    Background & Purpose of the Job

    Knorr believes that wholesome, nutritious food should be accessible and affordable to all. That's why we're on a journey to ensure all Americans can eat healthy meals they feel good about by creating high-quality products, offering simple chef-developed recipes, or supporting organizations and initiatives that provide access to healthy foods, Knorr remains committed to its long history of making good food available to everyone.

    What You'll Do

    • Operates Bartelt, SN& Jones machine(s) including peripheral fillers, (may operate two machines simultaneously) keeping watch for any malfunctions.

    • Is responsible for maintaining quality and quantity of pouches as set by Quality Assurance and by Packaging Production Standards.

    • Performs weight and quality checks every 15 minutes or hour depending on the line to ensure ingredient fills are maintained within standards.

    • Checks ingredient and total pouch weights and adjusts the controls as required to ensure adherence to standards

    • Clear jams on machine as required.

    • Performs certain mechanical adjustments on Packaging lines.

    • Retrieve packaging material from forward pick area within the room and loads onto machine

    • Uses computer to retrieve changeover information and settings.

    • Reports machine malfunction (mechanical/electrical) to mechanic, electrician or supervisor.

    • Updates all related Line KPI information and graphs as required.

    What You'll Need to Succeed

    • Minimum of two (2) years recent and continuousemployment in a high-speed manufacturing environment.

    • Must have strong troubleshooting skillsandmechanical aptitude.

    • Must be able to read, write and understand English

    • Must be able to lift-up to 50 lbs.

    • Must be flexible to work off-shift, to include 12-hour night/day shift, overtime and weekends.

    Employment is subject to verification of pre-screening tests, which may include drug screening, physical and background check.

    *Any coverages for health insurance and retirement benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

    ------------------------------------

    At Unilever, inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. We welcome applicants from all walks of life and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive/succeed. All applicants will receive fair and respectful consideration, and we actively support the growth and development of every employee.
    Unilever is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Persons with Disabilities.
    For more information on your federal rights, please seeKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal

    Employment is subject to verification of pre-screening tests, which may include drug screening, background check, credit check and DMV check.

    If you are an individual with a disability in need of assistance at any time during our recruitment process, please contact us atNA.Accommodations@unilever.com. Please note: This email is reserved for individuals with disabilities in need of assistance and is not a means of inquiry about positions or application statuses. The Protected Veterans or Individuals with Disabilities AAP narratives are available for inspection by any employee or applicant for employment Monday through Friday during normal business hours at establishment.

    #LI-DNP


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