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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Bristol, TN (NOW HIRING)

Machine Helper 1st Shift

Bristol, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

Must be able to assist the operator in completing the mechanical set up. * Must be able to learn how to operate the feed, print, die cutting and delivery sections of the machine. * Must be willing to ...

Operations Clerk

Bristol, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Store pipe and coupling stock per procedure and assist in shipping according to FIFO. * Take ... Be able to cross-train as a Machine Operator or Warehouse Assembler as needed. * Follow established ...

Operations Clerk

Bristol, TN

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Store pipe and coupling stock per procedure and assist in shipping according to FIFO. * Take ... Be able to cross-train as a Machine Operator or Warehouse Assembler as needed. * Follow established ...

Sr Process Engineer - Paper Machine

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$99K - $128K/yr

Develop training materials, procedures and charts for operators & communicate effectively * Use ... Utilize lean tools (6 Sigma, DMAIC, FMEA, etc.) to assist with leading team efforts to identify ...

Sr Process Engineer - Paper Machine

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$99K - $128K/yr

Develop training materials, procedures and charts for operators & communicate effectively * Use ... Utilize lean tools (6 Sigma, DMAIC, FMEA, etc.) to assist with leading team efforts to identify ...

Coating Production Assistant

Bristol, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

... operating advanced machinery to coat, laminate, and process high-quality materials. If you are ... Identify and assist operator to make minor mechanical or process adjustments to minimize downtime.

Production Line Assistant

Bristol, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

ESSENTIAL DUTIES Ensure standard operating procedures are followed Review/follow process ... machines and material requirements based on job specification for the product Assist line crew in ...

Coating Production Assistant

Bristol, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

... operating advanced machinery to coat, laminate, and process high-quality materials. If you are ... Identify and assist operator to make minor mechanical or process adjustments to minimize downtime.

Production Line Assistant

Bristol, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

ESSENTIAL DUTIES Ensure standard operating procedures are followed Review/follow process ... machines and material requirements based on job specification for the product Assist line crew in ...

... operating division for reply; prepares non-routine correspondence as requested; assembles ... Operates standard office machines and equipment as necessary. Education and Experience: Graduation ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Bristol, TN salary details

$13

$17

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Bristol, TN is $17.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 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 cities near Bristol, TN are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

Cities near Bristol, TN with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Bristol, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,367 per year, or $18 per hour.

Machine Helper 1st Shift

Pratt Industries

Bristol, TN • On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Pratt Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 111 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Position: Machine Helper

Shift: 1st

Location: Bristol, TN

Job Type: Full Time, Hourly

Perks of Pratt:

Within 1 Month: Eligible for insurance benefits

At 3 Months: 401k with partial match

At 6 Months: Paid vacation days

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Vision insurance

Unbox your career, click apply to start the process!

Job Description

Overview:

  • Assists the Operator in overseeing all aspects of machine operation and assists in the manufacture of the items produced while assigned to the machine.
  • Acts as the Operator when the Operator is absent.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Follow and ensure that fellow crew members adhere to all applicable safe work policies & procedures.
  • Maintain a safe and clean work area.
  • Assist in ensuring the proper mechanical set up and running of the machine.
  • Assist in ensuring that all orders produced are completed according to specifications provided.
  • Maintain acceptable production rates.
  • Complete all paper work and data entry as required.
  • Assist in the training of crew members.
  • Other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications:

  • Must be able to assist the operator in completing the mechanical set up.
  • Must be able to learn how to operate the feed, print, die cutting and delivery sections of the machine.
  • Must be willing to be trained as an operator for vacations, sickness, etc.
  • Must have a reasonable knowledge of current production software.

Required Skills:

  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Intermediate computer skills
  • Strong math/algebra skills
  • Problem solving and critical thinking

Educational Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent experience preferred, not required.

Physical Demands:

  • The employee is regularly required to walk and talk and hear.
  • The employee is frequently required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee is occasionally required to sit.
  • Vision requirements include: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

  • Work space is not climate controlled and can reach both hot and cold extremes (30 degrees - 110 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 6,500 highly skilled employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability. Pratt Industries is one of the largest corrugated packaging companies in America, with sophisticated manufacturing facilities in more than a dozen states. The company operates three of the most modern, cost effective paper mills in the country, as well as a series of sheet and box plants strategically placed throughout the United States offering a wide range of creative packaging solutions. Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by "harvesting the urban forest."

Pratt Industries offers competitive compensation plans with incentive opportunities, full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA, All State, Pre-Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, and paid holidays.

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.




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