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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Chattanooga, TN

Digital Printing Machine Operator

Dalton, GA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... * Assist internal teams by interpreting communication with Chinese manufacturers, vendors, or ... operating digital printing machines preferred but not required along with experience in textile ...

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Machine Operator Assistant information

See Chattanooga, TN salary details

$12

$16

$20

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Chattanooga, TN is $16.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $17.50 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 Chattanooga, TN?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Chattanooga, TN are:

What cities near Chattanooga, TN are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Chattanooga, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,029 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Machine Operator - Spin Line (1st Shift)

Hendrickson USA, LLC

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Hendrickson rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

287th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Machine Operators complete a variety of maintenance, development and operations tasks that promote the efficient production parts in the Spin Line department.
Essential Functions:
  • Take instructions from the foundry lead person to determine work processes
  • Weight specified amounts of materials as needed by each project module
  • Operate and calibrate machinery to make it process-ready
  • Use various hand tools
  • Ensure that ventilation procedures are followed throughout the procedure
  • Install and remove steel jackets and bands used for holding snap molds together
  • Sort casting into pairs, and pull reinforcing wires from castings
  • Remove castings from molds and place them in setting rings
  • Perform preventative and regular maintenance on job-specified equipment
  • Ensure that all work areas are properly cleaned and maintained
  • Band setter: set bands
  • Chuck Cleaner: clean and maintain chucks
  • Fork Out: fork castings out of spin table, weigh castings, hang on casting chain
  • Runner Box: repair and maintain runner boxes, assist in changeovers
  • Labor/Slagger: slag boxes, maintain intermediate ladle
  • Blast Operator/Inspector Stacker/Rework: measure castings, inspect casting, remove splattered iron from castings, operate HP grinder, place castings on the appropriate pallet and tag correctly, measure daily production
  • Fork Truck Operator: drive fork truck, locate product in proper areas of the plant, move material and equipment where needed
  • Monitor/log/record process
  • Assist in changeovers
  • Operate industrial-powered equipment
  • Cross-train other employees as required

Education and Training
  • High School Diploma/GED required.
  • Prior production machine operator experience, 1-2 yrs. preferred
  • Ability to obtain certification to drive industrial powered equipment (example: Fork Truck)

Minimum Qualifications
  • Ability to interpret production schedules and build specifications.
  • Ability to work overtime, as production demands require.
  • Must be able to utilize torque wrenches according to specs.
  • Must pass drug and alcohol screen and remain drug free throughout the term of employment.
  • Must follow all safety practices and policies.

Physical Demands
  • Constant standing, walking, reaching, balancing, cervical spine motion, lower extremities, and simple grasp.
  • Frequent use of firm grasping, fine manipulation, and pitching.
  • Frequent forward bending, squatting, kneeling, and climbing.
  • Lifting and carrying up to 50lbs.

Environmental Conditions
  • Non-temperature-controlled manufacturing facility.
  • Must wear eye, ear, and foot protection.

Behavioral Traits
Production - Adopting a strong orientation toward achievement, holding high expectations for yourself and others, pushing yourself and others to achieve at high levels
Cooperation - Accommodating the needs and interests of others by being willing to defer performance on your own objectives in order to assist colleagues with theirs
Consensual - Valuing the ideas and opinions of others and collecting their input as part of your decision-making process.
Listening - Understands and learns from what others say.
Attention to Detail - Diligently attends to details and pursues quality in accomplishing tasks
Teamwork - Promotes cooperation and commitment within a team to achieve goals and deliverables.
Safety Focus - Adheres to all workplace and trade safety laws, regulations, standards, and practices.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

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