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Machine Helper Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

International Paper Company

General Helper

Reading, PA · On-site

$23.55/hr

General Help Pay Rate : $23.55/hour Category/Shift : Hourly Full-Time. 2nd Shift - 4pm to Midnight ... Assists the machine center as needed to maximize the setup and operation of the machine center in a ...

Pratt Industries

2nd Helper 3rd Shift

Macungie, PA · On-site

$19.80/hr

Strong desire to learn and grow in a state-of-the-art, fast-paced environment What do Machine Helpers do at Pratt Industries? Responsible for all activities associated with helping operators on all ...

New

Pratt Industries

2nd Helper 3rd Shift

Macungie, PA · On-site

$19.80/hr

Strong desire to learn and grow in a state-of-the-art, fast-paced environment What do Machine Helpers do at Pratt Industries? Responsible for all activities associated with helping operators on all ...

New

International Paper

General Helper

Reading, PA

$23.55/hr

General Help Pay Rate : $23.55/hour Category/Shift : Hourly Full-Time. 2nd Shift - 4pm to Midnight ... Assists the machine center as needed to maximize the setup and operation of the machine center in a ...

Pratt Industries

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 ...

Pratt Industries

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 ...

Pratt Industries

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 ...

Pratt Industries

Machine Operator - 3rd 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 ...

Pratt Industries

Machine Operator - 3rd 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 ...

Pratt Industries

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 ...

Pratt Industries

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 ...

PeopleShare

Food Production Associate

Ephrata, PA

$16 - $17.50/hr

... Machine Helper, Line Worker, Production Line Associate, Conveyor Line Worker, Quality Inspector, Quality Control Associate Food Prep, Food Preparation, Prep Cook, Cook, Line Cook, Kitchen Helper ...

Bench Dogs

Machine Operator

Denver, PA · On-site

$19.94/hr

Maintaining activity logs Some competencies that help to make a good Machine Operator are: * Proven experience as a Machine Operator * Working knowledge of diverse high-speed machinery and ...

Bench Dogs

Machine Operator

Denver, PA · On-site

$19.94/hr

Maintaining activity logs Some competencies that help to make a good Machine Operator are: * Proven experience as a Machine Operator * Working knowledge of diverse high-speed machinery and ...

New

Reading School District

Game Helper

Reading, PA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Game-Help Announcer Classification: Athletics Department Reports To: Game Manager Position Goal: To increase fan interest and enjoyment by announcing pertinent game information, introducing athletes ...

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All JobsMachine Helper JobsMachine Helper Jobs in Reading, PA

Machine Helper information

See Reading, PA salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do machine helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine helper in Reading, PA is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Machine Helper jobs?

Cities near Reading, PA with the most Machine Helper job openings:

Machine Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Helper job openings in Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% 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 $34,854 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

General Helper

Reading, PA • On-site

International Paper Company
Paper Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about International Paper Companyexternal

$23.55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

International Paper rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 298 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Position Title:
General Help
Pay Rate:
$23.55/hour
Category/Shift:
Hourly Full-Time. 2nd Shift - 4pm to Midnight, 3rd Shift - Midnight to 8am
Physical Location:
Reading Box Plant
100 N Grace Street
Reading, PA 19611
The Job You Will Perform:
  • Ensure safety, quality of product produced, all reports and or data collection, and effective operation of the machine center.
  • Assists the machine center as needed to maximize the setup and operation of the machine center in a timely manner.
  • Work together in a safe, efficient and effective manner to ensure the production of a quality product.
  • Comply with all required Plant and OSHA safety rules.
  • Assist the Operator/Assistant Operator of a machine center with the quality production of all products.
  • Other duties as assigned by any member of management.

The Skills You Will Bring:
  • Ability to read and interpret written documents i.e. safety rules, operation and maintenance instructions, tacitly orders, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence
  • Ability to communicate effectively with peers and management.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure (Standard and Metric), using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
  • Ability to read a standard and metric tape measure.

The Benefits You Will Enjoy:
International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term Disability, 401(k) and/or Pension (where applicable), Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and pets.
The Career You Will Build:
Skills training and promotional opportunities
The Impact You Will Make:
We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 125 years. Join our team and you'll see why our team members say they're Proud to be IP.
The Culture You Will Experience:
International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring and inclusive workplaces. We have team members all around the world with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. These are our strengths. We are committed to creating a culture where all individuals are respected, valued, engaged and have an opportunity to do their best work every day. We invite you to bring your uniqueness, creativity, talents, experiences, and safety mindset to be a part of our increasingly inclusive and diverse culture.
The Company You Will Join:
International Paper (NYSE: IP) is the global leader in sustainable packaging solutions. With company headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, and EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) headquarters in London, UK, we employ more than 65,000 team members and serve customers around the world with operations in more than 30 countries. Together with our customers, we make the world safer and more productive, one sustainable packaging solution at a time. Net sales for 2024 were $18.6 billion. In 2025, International Paper acquired DS Smith creating an industry leader focused on the attractive and growing North American and EMEA regions. Additional information can be found by visiting internationalpaper.com

What International Paper employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

International Paper logo

About International Paper

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

International Paper is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion.

Industry

Paper manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US

Year founded

1898

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