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Machine Helper Jobs in Madison Heights, VA (NOW HIRING)

RailWorks

Welder Helper

Lynchburg, VA

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Certified by Contractor Orientation, ERail Safe and Railway Maintenance Machine Operation ... Ability to assist Thermite Welder in a problem and help with the best and most cost-effective means ...

RailWorks Corporation

Welder Helper

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Certified by Contractor Orientation, ERail Safe and Railway Maintenance Machine Operation ... Ability to assist Thermite Welder in a problem and help with the best and most cost-effective means ...

Curbell, Inc.

Machine Operator I

Brookneal, VA · On-site

$34K - $51K/yr

The Machine Operator produces quality product according to precise specifications within time ... to help drive improvement. Ensures the workplace and environment are clean and safe. Follows ...

Curbell, Inc.

Machine Operator I

Brookneal, VA

$15.25 - $18/hr

The Machine Operator produces quality product according to precise specifications within time ... to help drive improvement. Ensures the workplace and environment are clean and safe. Follows ...

Curbell, Inc.

Machine Operator I

Brookneal, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

The Machine Operator produces quality product according to precise specifications within time ... to help drive improvement. Ensures the workplace and environment are clean and safe. Follows ...

BMS Direct, Inc

Flex Machine Operator

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Flex Machine Operator- Production Supervisor: Production Supervisor Job Summary: Set up and operate ... Reasonable accommodations may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to ...

Curbell, Inc.

Machine Operator I

Brookneal, VA · On-site

$16.66 - $24.98/hr

The Machine Operator produces quality product according to precise specifications within time ... to help drive improvement. Ensures the workplace and environment are clean and safe. Follows ...

McWane, Inc.

MPI Machine Operator I

Madison Heights, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator I Reports to Branch Manager Pay Starting Rate: $20.81 Top Rate: $23.00 24-month ... Positive, enthusiastic, and helpful Work Environment: * While performing the duties of this job ...

BMS Direct, Inc

Flex Machine Operator

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Flex Machine Operator- Production Supervisor: Production Supervisor Job Summary: Set up and operate ... Reasonable accommodations may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to ...

McWane, Inc.

MPI Machine Operator I

Madison Heights, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator I Reports to Branch Manager Pay Starting Rate: $20.81 Top Rate: $23.00 24-month ... Positive, enthusiastic, and helpful Work Environment: * While performing the duties of this job ...

BMS Direct, Inc

Flex Machine Operator

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Flex Machine Operator- Production Supervisor: Production Supervisor Job Summary: Set up and operate ... Reasonable accommodations may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to ...

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All JobsMachine Helper JobsMachine Helper Jobs in Madison Heights, VA

Machine Helper information

See Madison Heights, VA salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do machine helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine helper in Madison Heights, VA is $16.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $18.70 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 Madison Heights, VA are hiring for Machine Helper jobs?

Cities near Madison Heights, VA with the most Machine Helper job openings:

Machine Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Helper job openings in Madison Heights, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,305 per year, or $17 per hour.

Welder Helper

RailWorks

Lynchburg, VA

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago

RailWorks rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job ID: 19675 

Benefits Offering

RailWorks is committed to helping our employees live better lives. We offer comprehensive benefits packages to eligible employees, including competitive pay, medical, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, and additional performance incentives. 

Compensation

Pay range: $18-20/hour, depending on experience

Position Summary

The Thermite Welder Helper is responsible for helping and assisting the Thermite Welder to repair railroad tracks in heavy construction environments. 

Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties
  • Experienced in Railtech Boutet, Inc.,Orgo-Thermit, Inc.Thermite Welding Processes 
  • Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating processes 
  • Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal, rail replacement, switch configuration, track construction and restoration. 
  • Basic track work duties; spiking, anchoring and surfacing 
  • Detects faulty operation of equipment or defective materials and notifies supervisors. 
  • Operates equipment per safety policies, rules and regulations. 
Required Skills and Qualifications
  • A minimum of 2 years of Thermite Welding experience in a heavy railroad industrial environment. 
  • Thorough knowledge of the Thermite Welding process and procedures. 
  • Certified by Contractor Orientation, ERail Safe and Railway Maintenance Machine Operation 
  • Experienced in reporting daily activities to Thermite Welder.
  • Experienced in communicating with Thermite Welder regarding job completion of task at hand. 
  • Ability to assist Thermite Welder in a problem and help with the best and most cost-effective means for repair. 
  • Ability to understand and follow safety policies, rules and regulations. 
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
  • Works outdoors at railroad construction sites. 
  • Frequently works in flat, vertical, or overhead positions. 
  • Frequently stands, walks, climbs, balances, stoops, and crouches. 
  • Uses hands to operate equipment and tools. 
  • Performs heavy physical labor; may lift/carry and push/pull objects weighing up to 75 pounds. 
  • Exposed to harsh weather conditions including extremely hot and extremely cold weather. 
  • Exposed to loud noise, dust and fumes. 
  • Must wear personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety boots, hard hats, and hearing protection as required by the company. 
  •  
Company Overview

This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned. 

RailWorks is North America's leading rail maintenance and infrastructure solutions provider. With over 100 years of experience, our geographic footprint enables us to quickly serve our customers and provides ample opportunities for our employees to grow their careers within the company. We take on challenging projects every day and our success relies on a collaborative, safe, and open-minded work environment that encourages teamwork, positivity, and ingenuity. We are committed to creating a culture of trust, respect, and acceptance.

RailWorks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with RailWorks without regard to an individual's sex, race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.

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