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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Columbia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

York Haven, PA

$16 - $19.25/hr

... motivated Machine Operator to join our team in York Haven, PA. This role is responsible for ... * Assist maintenance personnel with equipment repairs as needed. Communication & Teamwork

Machine Operator

York, PA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

... motivated Machine Operator to join our team in York Haven, PA. This role is responsible for ... * Assist maintenance personnel with equipment repairs as needed. Communication & Teamwork

Machine Operator

York Haven, PA

$16 - $19.25/hr

... motivated Machine Operator to join our team in York Haven, PA. This role is responsible for ... * Assist maintenance personnel with equipment repairs as needed. Communication & Teamwork

Machine Operator

York Haven, PA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... motivated Machine Operator to join our team in York Haven, PA. This role is responsible for ... * Assist maintenance personnel with equipment repairs as needed. Communication & Teamwork

Machine Operator

York, PA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Report to work on time and ready to assist with warehouse activities. * Comply with company ... machinery before operating it. * Perform those physical requirements necessary to lift and move ...

Packaging Machine Operator

Mountville, PA

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for operating packaging equipment, supervising ... Maintain clean and organized work areas. Assist with training and supporting Packers. Follow GMP ...

Packaging Machine Operator

Mountville, PA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for operating packaging equipment, supervising ... work areas. • Assist with training and supporting Packers. • Follow GMP, food safety ...

Packaging Machine Operator

Mountville, PA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for operating packaging equipment, supervising ... Maintain clean and organized work areas. Assist with training and supporting Packers. Follow GMP ...

Packaging Machine Operator

Mountville, PA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for operating packaging equipment, supervising ... work areas. • Assist with training and supporting Packers. • Follow GMP, food safety ...

Machine Operator 2

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator 2 Location: Lancaster, PA Type: Contract (potential hire) Work Model: Onsite Hours ... Conduct in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tools. * Assist machinists with ...

Machine Operator 2

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator 2 Location: Lancaster, PA Type: Contract (potential hire) Work Model: Onsite Hours ... Conduct in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tools. * Assist machinists with ...

Machine Operator 2

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator 2 Location: Lancaster, PA Type: Contract (potential hire) Work Model: Onsite Hours ... Conduct in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tools. * Assist machinists with ...

Machine Operator 2

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator 2 Location: Lancaster, PA Type: Contract (potential hire) Work Model: Onsite Hours ... Conduct in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tools. * Assist machinists with ...

Machine Operator 2

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator 2 Location: Lancaster, PA Type: Contract (potential hire) Work Model: Onsite Hours ... Conduct in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tools. * Assist machinists with ...

Machine Operator 2

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator 2 Location: Lancaster, PA Type: Contract (potential hire) Work Model: Onsite Hours ... Conduct in-process and final inspections using precision measuring tools. * Assist machinists with ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Columbia, PA salary details

$13

$17

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Columbia, PA is $17.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.61 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 Columbia, PA are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

Cities near Columbia, PA with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:

Machine Assistant Operator (Gluer) - 2nd/3rd Shift

Packaging Corporation of America

Landisville, PA • On-site

$26.15 - $26.43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

As a Fortune 500 company, Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is an ideas and solutions company. Our corrugated packaging business seeks to be the leader in helping our customers - large and small - package, transport and display products of all kinds. Our white paper business delivers Paper With Purpose by providing the highest level of customer service and operational excellence. We have approximately 15,000 team members in more than 100 locations in the United States that strive to meet the local needs of our customers. Our mission is to serve the needs of our customers, today and tomorrow, with products and services that exceed expectations for performance and environmental responsibility.
People • Customers • Trust
Principle Accountabilities:
  • Assist with machine set-up in accordance with proper setup techniques.
  • Monitor box quality, including, but not limited to, loose liner, scoring, folding, print, proper placement/application of the glue, etc., and communicate quality related issues back to operator and helper(s).
  • Ensure finished boxes are properly stacked for unitizing and/or palletizing.
  • Able to understand and follow instructions on factory card, as well as instruction given by operator
  • Maximize the utilization of equipment by effectively assisting the operator to run the machinery at available capacity and speed.
  • Assist with training helper(s) with job duties on the machine.
  • Complete necessary reports in an accurate and timely manner, including but not limited to: Production Data, Machine Operational Status, Safety Data, Lean Enterprise and Quality Data.
  • Turn in maintenance work orders to supervision for needed repairs.
  • Be proactive in the maintenance of equipment.
  • Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping.
  • Adheres to production schedule. Makes recommendations for optimizing the schedule to meet cost, quality and service goals.
  • Reports any unusual scheduling issues to Supervisor.
  • Work with crew members for maximum efficiency of operation.
  • Switch duties with other crew members, which may include operating, feeding, pulling, stacking, and packing, as required.
  • Comply with all company policies, procedures and work rules, including but not limited to safety and maintaining good housekeeping.
  • Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
  • Regular attendance and timeliness are required.

Basic Qualifications:
  • High school diploma/GED.
  • Lifting up to 45 pounds.
  • Ability and willingness to work overtime on short notice, both during the week and weekends.
  • Ability to work in manufacturing environment, with varying temperatures based on season, around machinery, and heavy forklift traffic.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in a packaging or other manufacturing environment.
  • Experience in folding/gluing machine work.
  • Prior experience working as a crewmember on a machine crew.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Ability to work within a team, effectively communicating with members, and work independently.
  • Ability to follow instruction and execute written and verbal instructions.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
  • Starting salary for position: $26.15-26.43 per hour.
  • Bonus: Annual - Based upon achievement of plant performance metrics.
  • Paid Vacation: 2 weeks per calendar year. Pro-rata Vacation during the initial year of hire based upon start date within the calendar year.
  • Paid Holidays.
  • Within the first 30 days of employment, an employee (and their dependents) is eligible to enroll in certain benefit coverages -- medical, dental, and vision - and are automatically enrolled in life, AD&D, and disability coverages.
  • Upon hire, an employee is automatically enrolled in the 401k plan. The plan offers both pre-tax and Roth contribution options along with employer provided matching contributions
  • Disclaimer: The Compensation and Benefits information in this posting represents PCA's good faith and reasonable estimate of what it may pay for this position. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Qualified Applicants must apply at careers.packagingcorp.com to be considered.

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