ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Idaho (NOW HIRING)

Idaho Pacific Holdings

Short Term Drum Operator

Ririe, ID · On-site

$22.08 - $22.09/hr

Notify the Flake Operator, Assistant Shift Manager or the Shift Manager immediately if product is ... Must not be affected by moving equipment and machinery. * Bending, stretching, lifting, reaching ...

Volm Companies

Press Operator-Night Shift

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

$19.73 - $22.69/hr

... assist in performing basic preventative maintenance and repair. * Follow production schedule and ... Optimize machine run settings to deliver high quality with minimal waste, checking print quality ...

Woodgrain

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Fruitland, ID · On-site

$20/hr

Train others to operate the ripsaw in a safe and efficient manner. * Assist in other areas. Requirements: * High school diploma or GED preferred. * Strong mechanical abilities * Basic computer skills ...

Idaho Pacific Holdings

Short Term Drum Operator

Rigby, ID · On-site

$22.08 - $22.09/hr

Notify the Flake Operator, Assistant Shift Manager or the Shift Manager immediately if product is ... Must not be affected by moving equipment and machinery.Bending, stretching, lifting, reaching ...

Fiberon

Operator I

Meridian, ID · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

... and assist others in packaging and wrapping units. • Communicate defects and issues with ... operators, leads, and supervisors. • Inspect groove and side printing for accuracy. • Assist ...

Fiberon

Operator I

Meridian, ID · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

... and assist others in packaging and wrapping units. • Communicate defects and issues with ... operators, leads, and supervisors. • Inspect groove and side printing for accuracy. • Assist ...

Fiberon

Operator I

Meridian, ID · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

... and assist others in packaging and wrapping units. • Communicate defects and issues with ... operators, leads, and supervisors. • Inspect groove and side printing for accuracy. • Assist ...

Fiberon

Operator I

Meridian, ID · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

... and assist others in packaging and wrapping units. • Communicate defects and issues with ... operators, leads, and supervisors. • Inspect groove and side printing for accuracy. • Assist ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Assistant JobsMachine Operator Assistant Jobs in Idaho

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Idaho salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Idaho is $17.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Machine Operator Assistant vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine Operator AssistantMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in manufacturing or production settings, working alongside machine operatorsOperates machinery directly in manufacturing or industrial environments
Job ResponsibilitiesSupports machine operation, performs basic maintenance, and monitors equipmentControls and manages machinery, ensures quality, and troubleshooting

The Machine Operator Assistant primarily supports and assists the Machine Operator in daily tasks, focusing on preparation and basic maintenance. The Machine Operator takes on the responsibility of running and managing machinery independently. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, but the Machine Operator has more advanced technical duties and decision-making authority.

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

To thrive as a Machine Operator Assistant, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and the ability to use measuring tools or computer systems is often required. Reliability, effective communication, and the ability to work well in a team are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient machine operation and help maintain smooth production processes in manufacturing environments.

What is a machine operator assistant?

Machine Operator Assistants support machine operators by preparing materials, monitoring equipment, and ensuring a smooth production process in manufacturing environments. Their tasks often include loading and unloading materials, cleaning machines, inspecting products for quality, and assisting with machine maintenance. They help maintain efficiency and safety in the workplace and may also document production data or report equipment issues. This role is key for keeping manufacturing lines running smoothly and efficiently.

How much do you get paid as a machine operator assistant?

The average hourly wage for a machine operator assistant typically ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials may also increase total compensation.

What are some common challenges faced by a machine operator assistant, and how can they be overcome?

Machine Operator Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced production environments, ensuring safety compliance, and minimizing machine downtime. To overcome these, it's important to stay attentive to operational protocols, communicate effectively with machine operators and team members, and proactively report any equipment issues. Continuous learning and on-the-job training can also help assistants rapidly build the skills necessary to troubleshoot minor problems and contribute to a smooth workflow.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Idaho? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Idaho are:
What cities in Idaho are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs? Cities in Idaho with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator Assistant jobs in ID? For Machine Operator Assistant jobs in ID, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Machine Operator Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Idaho as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,197 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Operator Helper Packaging (12 Hour Days) $19.35/hr

Idahoan Foods

Lewisville, ID • On-site

$20.10/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Idahoan Foods rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

58th of 436 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Increased to $20.10/hr. upon successful completion of training and skills validation.

Purpose:

The Machine Operator Helper assists in the operation of packaging machinery within the Packaging Department. This role ensures that products are packaged efficiently and in accordance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards. The helper will work closely with the Packaging Machine Operator to ensure smooth and effective operation of the packaging equipment.

Responsibilities: 

  • Assist Packaging Machine Operator in setting up and adjusting packaging machines. Load WIP materials and packaging materials into machines. Monitor machine operation to detect and correct issues such as jams or malfunctions. Support with minor machine repairs or adjustments as directed. Pack packaged product into cases and/or stack cases onto pallets. Serve as backup to Machine Operator during breaks. 
  • Replenish packaging materials and supplies as needed. Use inventory management system to consume and move materials to maintain inventory accuracy and safe consumption of materials.  
  • Inspect packaged products to ensure they meet quality standards. Complete opening and rework of packages that do not meet this standard.  
  • Ensure that work areas are clean and organized to maintain a safe working environment. 
  • Assist Machine Operator to complete and document line changeovers. Follow established protocols to ensure safe disassembly, sanitation, and reassembly of equipment.  
  • Strictly adhere to all Safety and Food Safety/Quality policies and procedures within the packaging department. This involves reporting Safety and Food Safety/Quality incidents to the Supervisor and participating in RCAs. Actively identifying potential Safety and Food Safety/Quality risks and resolving or reporting those risks to the Supervisor. Complete all training assigned by the company before the target due date. 

Qualifications/Required Skills  

Experience and or Education: Recent and consistent job history in an environment comparable to manufacturing, including repetitive, physically demanding, and/or around machines or equipment. Previous experience in food manufacturing environment preferred. 

Technical Skills: Forklift certification, SQF training, and LOTO training preferred 

Language Skills: Ability to read, comprehend, and compose simple instructions, polices, procedures and correspondence in English or Spanish. 

Reasoning Ability: Demonstrates self-confidence and maturity to make decisions and solve problems with minimal direction. Organized and able to accomplish and prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously. Possesses analytical, quantitative, communication, problem solving, and technical skills. Has the ability to creatively apply experience, and common sense for processes preferred.  

Interpersonal Skills: Clearly communicate with the Machine Operator, leadership team, and co-workers in a professional manner.  

Computer Skills: Able to use D365 (Microsoft) and Redzone (Apple) software preferred.

Work Environment: The position is located in a food processing facility. Frequently, exposed to hot, dusty conditions and moving mechanical parts. Must be able to work rotating shifts including weekends. 

Physical Requirements: Demonstrates the ability to perform heavy lifting up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis. Must be able to stand and walk on concrete floors for extended periods of time. Must be able to use stairs consistently throughout shift. Position requires repetitive motion – hand, arm and shoulder movement. Must be able to drive a powered industrial vehicle.  

 Alignment with Core Values of the Company

  • Respect & Value Our People
  • Stay in Front of Challenge While Reducing Costs
  • Delight Our Customers
  • Food Quality & Safety

What Idahoan Foods employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply