Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Machine Operator Assistant

Job Description

This role supports light equipment and production machinery operations in a paper processing and manufacturing facility. You set up and operate production equipment according to job specifications, assist with material handling, and help maintain consistent product quality. You work closely with the machine operator to keep lines running smoothly, troubleshoot basic issues, and ensure accurate documentation of production activities.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate production machinery according to job specifications and established procedures.
• Read and interpret tape measures, copy folders, and other setup documentation to ensure accurate machine setup.
• Operate unwind equipment and related systems to prepare, feed, and replace materials during production.
• Inspect and monitor print quality, perforations, registration lines, and materials to ensure products meet specifications.
• Maintain accurate records of roll weights, material usage, and production activity throughout each shift.
• Perform basic machine adjustments, clear jams, and assist with routine machine maintenance as needed.
• Pull jams and restart production lines to minimize downtime.
• Load materials into machines using a forklift or manual pallet jack while following safety procedures.
• Assist the Machine Operator II in keeping machines loaded, running, and producing quality products.
• Handle production materials properly and ensure all materials are recorded accurately.
• Communicate promptly with supervisors or maintenance personnel regarding equipment, safety, or quality issues.
• Complete production and quality documentation accurately and on time.
• Use basic hand tools and power tools to support machine setup and minor adjustments.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area, following all company safety procedures and guidelines.

Essential Skills

• At least 6 months of machine operating experience in a production or manufacturing environment.
• Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with general production and machine operation.
• Ability to load materials into machines using a forklift or manual pallet jack.
• Ability to pull jams and restart production lines safely and efficiently.
• Basic troubleshooting knowledge to address minor machine and production issues.
• Ability to consistently lift 50 pounds or more during the shift.
• Proficiency using a tape measure and performing basic math to support accurate setups and measurements.
• Ability to read and write English to follow instructions, complete documentation, and communicate with the team.
• Experience using basic hand tools and power tools in an industrial setting.
• Comfort working in a loud paper processing and manufacturing facility while following safety requirements.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in paper mills, paper processing, or similar manufacturing environments.
• Experience with pallet jacks and palletizing finished products.
• 1 year in machine setup and light equipment operation.
• Familiarity with maintaining production and quality records in a manufacturing setting.

Why Work Here?

You join a stable manufacturing environment that values safety, development, and long-term growth. You receive paid vacation starting immediately, along with access to a break room and supportive team environment. Once you transition to full-time status, you become eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, and vision coverage, HSA and FSA options, disability benefits, an Employee Assistance Program, and a 401(k) plan. The role offers clear pay progression tied to shift and tenure, providing a pathway to grow your earnings as you build your skills and experience.

Work Environment

This role is based in a paper processing and manufacturing facility with a very loud production floor. Ear protection is required at all times, and steel-toe or composite safety shoes must be worn while on the floor. The position operates on multiple shifts, including a first shift from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and a third shift from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. You work around heavy machinery, unwind systems, and material handling equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks. The environment is fast-paced and production-driven, with a focus on safety, proper material handling, and accurate documentation

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Covington, TN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $15.80 - $15.80/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Covington,TN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 2, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.