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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Austin, MN (NOW HIRING)

Pratt Industries

Forklift Driver-20351

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$24/hr

Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed ... Assist other forklift operators as necessary and is backup to Shipping Lead Person. Complete ...

Apple Valley Foods- US

Production Associate

Austin, MN · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

... packaging machinery, following standard operating procedures; * Conduct regular inspections of ... workspaces; * Assist with equipment setup, changeovers, and adjustments according to production ...

Apple Valley Foods

Production Associate

Austin, MN · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

... packaging machinery, following standard operating procedures; * Conduct regular inspections of ... * Assist with equipment setup, changeovers, and adjustments according to production schedules and ...

Cargill

Mechanic I

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$28.10/hr

New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant Ana at ... Using hand tools to perform maintenance on production machinery * Ensuring food safety and quality

Cargill

Mechanic I

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$28.10/hr

New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant Ana at ... Using hand tools to perform maintenance on production machinery * Ensuring food safety and quality

Cargill

Mechanic I

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$28.10/hr

New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant Ana at ... Using hand tools to perform maintenance on production machinery * Ensuring food safety and quality

Cargill

Mechanic I

Albert Lea, MN

$28.10/hr

New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant Ana at ... Using hand tools to perform maintenance on production machinery * Ensuring food safety and quality

Ulland Brothers Inc

Pipe Layer

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Ulland Brothers has operated in the construction industry for over 100 years. This is a union ... Cut pipes to required lengths. * Assist in aligning pipes during pipeline construction. * Check ...

Apple Valley Foods- US

Manufacturing Engineer

Austin, MN · On-site

$71K - $91K/yr

... machine downtime to coincide with production scheduling demands; * Communicate production issues with all levels of operations management; * Assist in the design and development of manufacturing ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Assembler I - 1st Shift

Riceville, IA · On-site

$20 - $25.48/hr

... machine. Pay Range: $20 - $25.48 YOUR IMPACT: These duties are not meant to be all-inclusive and ... Read and interpret safety rules, operating/maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Read ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Assembler - Hiring Now

Riceville, IA

$20 - $25.48/hr

... machine. Pay Range: $20 - $25.48 YOUR IMPACT: These duties are not meant to be all-inclusive and ... Read and interpret safety rules, operating/maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Read ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Assembler - Hiring Now

Riceville, IA · On-site

$20 - $25.48/hr

... machine. Pay Range: $20 - $25.48 YOUR IMPACT: These duties are not meant to be all-inclusive and ... Read and interpret safety rules, operating/maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Read ...

Oshkosh Corporation

Assembler I - 1st Shift

Riceville, IA · On-site

$20 - $25.48/hr

... machine. Pay Range: $20 - $25.48 YOUR IMPACT: These duties are not meant to be all-inclusive and ... Read and interpret safety rules, operating/maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Read ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Assistant JobsMachine Operator Assistant Jobs in Austin, MN

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Austin, MN salary details

$13

$18

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Austin, MN is $18.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

How to become a machine operator assistant with no experience?

To become a machine operator assistant with no experience, start by gaining basic knowledge of manufacturing processes and safety procedures through online courses or training programs. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training is provided to learn equipment operation and maintenance. Developing skills in attention to detail, manual dexterity, and understanding of tools can improve your chances of securing a position.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Austin, MN?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Austin, MN are:

What cities near Austin, MN are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

Cities near Austin, MN with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:

Machine Operator Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Austin, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,460 per year, or $18 per hour.

Forklift Driver-20351

Pratt Industries

Albert Lea, MN • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Pratt Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 110 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 121 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Responsible for all activities associated with safely operating a caring for the forklift.

Duties and Responsibilities: Operation and care of forklift in a safe manner. Must be qualified to properly operate the forklift. Complete and document a forklift inspection form before start of shift and when operating a new forklift and turn in maintenance work orders to supervision for needed repairs. Locate stock before the start of the run. Deliver appropriate stock to appropriate machines safely and on time. Remove finished goods from machines. Maintain neat, orderly and safe stacks of stock in storage areas. Complete necessary paperwork in an accurate and timely manner. Maintain accurate location of stock in storage area by computer and supporting paperwork. Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed. Adheres to daily production schedule. Makes recommendations for optimizing the schedule to meet cost, quality, delivery and service goals. Assist other forklift operators as necessary and is backup to Shipping Lead Person. Complete necessary reports in an accurate and timely manner, including but not limited to: Production Data, Machine Operational Status and Quality Data. Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping and any additional duties that may be assigned by management.

Education and/or Experience: High School Diploma or GED. Candidates are preferred who offer prior work experience in the corrugated industry.

Reasoning Ability: Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral or graphic form. Ability to deal with problems involving one or more concrete variables in standardized situations.

Technical Skills: The individual must have a working knowledge of the following: Equipment design and capabilities that can be translated into efficient operation. Product layouts and production specifications, product quality specifications and quality standards.

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment: the work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud and be warm and humid from time to time.


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.

This position is an hourly forklift operator position starting at $24.00 per hour. There will be no computer issued or cell phone reimbursement.

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