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Machine Helper Jobs in Kingsport, TN (NOW HIRING)

Pratt Industries

Machine Helper 1st Shift

Bristol, TN

$13.50 - $17/hr

Machine Helper Shift: 1st Location : Bristol, TN 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 ...

Pratt Industries

Machine Helper 1st Shift

Bristol, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

Machine Helper Shift: 1st Location : Bristol, TN 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 ...

Turner Industries

Helper

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

We help move the world forward by providing responsive, innovative solutions designed to increase ... welding machine set up, rigging for the crane, tightening headstock etc.; if certified may be ...

Turner Industries

Helper

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

We help move the world forward by providing responsive, innovative solutions designed to increase ... welding machine set up, rigging for the crane, tightening headstock etc.; if certified may be ...

PERMA R PRODUCTS INC

Maintenance Helper

Johnson City, TN

$16 - $20.50/hr

Basic understanding of electrical, plumbing, and machinery, along with familiarity with hand and power tools. * Physical Stamina : Ability to lift heavy objects and work in various conditions ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Jonesborough, TN · On-site

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Church Hill, TN · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Gray, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Elizabethton, TN · On-site

$12 - $15.25/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Piney Flats, TN · On-site

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Bristol, TN · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Blountville, TN · On-site

$11.75 - $15/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

Food City

Produce Helper

Rogersville, TN · On-site

$12.25 - $15.25/hr

Essential Job Functions: * Ensure efficient and courteous customer service at all times in support of the company mission to "Run the Best Store in Town!" * Maintain a positive attitude; create an ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Helper JobsMachine Helper Jobs in Kingsport, TN

Machine Helper information

See Kingsport, TN salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do machine helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine helper in Kingsport, TN is $16.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $18.27 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 cities near Kingsport, TN are hiring for Machine Helper jobs? Cities near Kingsport, TN with the most Machine Helper job openings:
Machine Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Helper job openings in Kingsport, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,517 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Machine Helper 1st Shift

Pratt Industries

Bristol, TN

$13.50 - $17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 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: 1st

Location: Bristol, TN

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 6,500 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.

Pratt Industries provides equal employment [and affirmative action] opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.



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