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Machine Helper Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Macungie, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Train and assist Assistant Machine Operators, Machine Helpers and Production Utility with job ... duties on the machine, downtime, setup times and quality. * Complete necessary reports in an ...

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Macungie, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Train and assist Assistant Machine Operators, Machine Helpers and Production Utility with job duties on the machine, downtime, setup times and quality. * Cross-train on other machines and learns ...

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Macungie, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Train and assist Assistant Machine Operators, Machine Helpers and Production Utility with job duties on the machine, downtime, setup times and quality. * Cross-train on other machines and learns ...

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Macungie, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Train and assist Assistant Machine Operators, Machine Helpers and Production Utility with job duties on the machine, downtime, setup times and quality. * Cross-train on other machines and learns ...

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Macungie, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Train and assist Assistant Machine Operators, Machine Helpers and Production Utility with job duties on the machine, downtime, setup times and quality. * Cross-train on other machines and learns ...

Helper

Selinsgrove, PA

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Trash Helper Hometown Disposal is the area's leading waste company, providing essential services to ... Operate lever hand controls for hydraulic machinery when needed. * Assist the driver with backing ...

Helper

Selinsgrove, PA

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Trash Helper Hometown Disposal is the area's leading waste company, providing essential services to ... Operate lever hand controls for hydraulic machinery when needed. * Assist the driver with backing ...

Be Seen First

The job involves helping machine operators, performing basic fabrication tasks, preparing materials for production, and assisting with packaging and palletizing finished products. Key ...

Set up and operate color code machine to produce a variety of products in the compression lug family and PIK sleeves. Perform routine maintenance such as lubrication. * Set up and operate semi ...

CNC Lathe Machinist

Bethlehem, PA · On-site

$26 - $34/hr

Programmer must have knowledge and experience to program at or off the machine *Able to hold tight tolerances up to .0005" *Basic milling knowledge helpful *Able to follow AS9100 guidelines as ...

Shop Helper

York, PA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Shop Helper Travel : report to York PA Field Service Center Pay Range: $16-18 per hour; Based on experience We are currently seeking a Shop Helper to join our Wagman Heavy Civil, Inc. team. Reporting ...

Showing results 41-60

Machine Helper information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine helper in Pennsylvania is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $19.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by machine helpers in a manufacturing environment and how can they be addressed?

Machine Helpers often encounter challenges such as keeping up with fast-paced production lines, handling repetitive tasks, and ensuring safety around heavy machinery. To address these, it's important to stay attentive, follow safety protocols, and communicate effectively with machine operators and supervisors. Developing good organizational habits and being proactive about machine maintenance can also help prevent breakdowns and maintain efficiency. Training and teamwork are key for overcoming these challenges and ensuring a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Machine Helper vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine HelperMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; often additional certifications or training
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, construction sitesFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing and constructionPrimarily in manufacturing, production, and industrial sectors
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist machine operators, prepare materials, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, monitor production, ensure safety and quality

In summary, a Machine Helper assists Machine Operators by preparing materials and performing basic tasks, while Machine Operators are responsible for running and managing machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and required skills.

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

To excel as a Machine Helper, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and possibly forklift or OSHA certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe and efficient machine operation, minimize downtime, and contribute to a productive work environment.

What is a machine helper?

Machine Helpers are workers who assist machine operators in manufacturing or production settings. They are responsible for supporting the setup, operation, and maintenance of machinery, as well as ensuring materials are loaded correctly and finished products are removed efficiently. Their duties often include cleaning equipment, monitoring machine performance, and helping with minor repairs or adjustments. Machine Helpers play a vital role in keeping production lines running smoothly and safely.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Machine jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Machine Helper jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Machine Helper job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Helper jobs in PA? For Machine Helper jobs in PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Machine Helper job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,380 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Pratt Industries

Macungie, PA • On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 hours 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

SUMMARY

Responsible for all activities associated with safely operating Converted Paper machines including setup, operation, quality checks, cleanup, and recommending improvements to operations to meet customer demand.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Work safely at all times, be aware of surroundings and understand and comply with Pratt Industries Safety rules, operating procedures, and help hold co-workers responsible for safety related items. Participate in Plant Safety Committee.
  • Follow at all times GMPs (Good Manufacturing Processes)
  • Perform a range of production support responsibilities, to include various appropriate machine adjustments and a range of maintenance tasks. Must be comfortable with the use of touch screen controls.
  • Support start-up operations by stripping, preparing, setting and changing rolls, ink, or other raw materials to manufacture the product.
  • Gather finished product from machines and box, bag or package as required
  • Quality checks and on-going inspections checking the condition and quality of the finished product and remove any that do not meet our quality standards and confirm there is no process changes or quality issues.
  • Maintain accurate count of product when packing or bagging, as well as, keeping pace with the varying production speeds/levels
  • Secure cases to prevent shifting or moving by stacking them in an orderly manner
  • The operator must have basic reading and math skills.
  • Mechanical and problem solving abilities are necessary.
  • Responsible for equipment set up and productivity.
  • Check job order and set machine according.
  • Learn and comply with Pratt Industries quality procedures and policies. Stop bad quality from leaving the facility to the Customer. Catch it on the front end of manufacturing the product. Strong attention to detail for poor quality; prevent bad quality being sent to customer.
  • Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the bag machinery at available capacity and speed. Improve set up times daily, improve downtime daily. Identify and address mechanical concerns and report to Production Supervisor or Production Manager or Plant Mechanical Tech/Specialist
  • Housekeeping and cleaning of work areas - keep clean and free of tripping hazards during shift and end of shift cleaning of the area. In addition, good housekeeping of areas employee utilizes; break rooms, bathrooms, refrigerators etc.
  • Learn and understand capability and capacity of machine and drive efficiencies limiting waste and downtime. Do not sacrifice quality for machine speeds - must have both excellent quality and high efficiencies with minimal downtime.
  • Train and assist Assistant Machine Operators, Machine Helpers and Production Utility with job duties on the machine, downtime, setup times and quality.
  • Complete necessary reports in an accurate and timely manner, including but not limited to: Production Data, Machine Operational Status, Safety Data, Quality Data.
  • Cross-train on other machines and learns other positions in the plant. Switch duties with co-workers as necessary. Learning environment to learn as many job duties to assist with plant growth and personal and professional growth opportunities.
  • Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping.
  • Must be able to work overtime as necessary, sometimes on short notice. We serve our customers 24x7 - 365 days a year and sometimes work on holidays not avoidable.
  • Additional duties may be assigned by management.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or GED.

Candidates arePREFERREDwho offer the following:

Prior work experience in the packaging industry; paper, plastics, converting

6 months' experience in some type of manufacturing operation.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Able to read and follow instructions; quality, safety, job packets

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Able to read a tape measure with speed and accuracy. Able to calculate figures and amounts such as percentages, measurement, volume and rate. Able to apply concepts of high school math.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or graphic form. Ability to deal with problems involving one or more concrete variables in standardized situations.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

May be required to maintain a current Lift Truck Operator License.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee may occasionally be required to sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 9,000 highly skilled green collar 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 twenty states. The company operates several 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 full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, All State, Pre-Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, paid holidays, and childbearing and parental leave.


What Pratt Industries employees say

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