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

jtekt

Machine Operator

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

... team as Machine Operator. Key Responsibilities Operate machinery and equipment in a safe and ... Assist with basic maintenance and cleaning of equipment and work areas Work as part of a team to ...

New

jtekt

Machine Operator

Blythewood, SC

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

... team as Machine Operator. Key Responsibilities Operate machinery and equipment in a safe and ... Assist with basic maintenance and cleaning of equipment and work areas Work as part of a team to ...

New

JTEKT North America

Machine Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

... team as Machine Operator. Key Responsibilities Operate machinery and equipment in a safe and ... Assist with basic maintenance and cleaning of equipment and work areas Work as part of a team to ...

New

CRH

Machine Operator

Ridgeway, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Perform routine machine maintenance * Assist other operators to set up machines and any other necessary tasks to adhere to deadlines and completion of product * Make sure all housekeeping is ...

CRH

Machine Operator

Ridgeway, SC

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Perform routine machine maintenance * Assist other operators to set up machines and any other necessary tasks to adhere to deadlines and completion of product * Make sure all housekeeping is ...

Fresh Express

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Able to assist in different lines or baggers as needed.Works as directed and as a teamSupports ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

Fresh Express

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Able to assist in different lines or baggers as needed. * Works as directed and as a team ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

Fresh Express

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Able to assist in different lines or baggers as needed. * Works as directed and as a team ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

Fresh Express

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Columbia, SC

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Able to assist in different lines or baggers as needed. * Works as directed and as a team ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

Fresh Express

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Able to assist in different lines or baggers as needed. * Works as directed and as a team ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

Fresh Express

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Able to assist in different lines or baggers as needed.Works as directed and as a teamSupports ... Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year. Required ...

Palmetto Corp

Milling Machine Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Operators may assist in loading and unloading of trucks and using hand tools as related to the ... Operate asphalt cold milling machine including grade controls. * Perform a variety of skilled ...

jtekt

Machine Operator A

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Key Responsibilities Operate machinery and equipment in a safe and efficient manner Perform quality ... Assist with basic maintenance and cleaning of equipment and work areas Work as part of a team to ...

jtekt

Machine Operator A

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Key Responsibilities Operate machinery and equipment in a safe and efficient manner Perform quality ... Assist with basic maintenance and cleaning of equipment and work areas Work as part of a team to ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Assistant JobsMachine Operator Assistant Jobs in Columbia, SC

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$12

$17

$20

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Columbia, SC is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $17.79 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 Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

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

Machine Operator Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,591 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Machine Operator

Prosperity, SC

Gallman Personnel Services, Inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Gallman Personnel Services, Inc.external

$18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

GPS is currently hiring Machine Operators for immediate positions in Prosperity, SC. 
 
As a Machine Operator, you will play a vital role in the production and quality control of non-woven paper products. 
 
Why you should apply:
  • $18.50/hr 
  • Temp-to-hire
  • Full benefits offered after hire, including: 
    • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
    • 401(k) with employer contributions
    • Short-term & long-term disability
    • Pet insurance
    • Employee discounts via LifeMart
    • Paid vacation and sick days
 
Shift Schedule: 
  • 7:00 am – 7:00 pm 
  • 12 hr shifts, 40 hours per week 
 
What will you do: 
  • Assist with machine startup, operation, and shutdown
  • Train in all areas: press, slitting, packaging, inspection, and forklift (certification provided)
  • Maintain a clean and organized workspace
  • Perform general labor tasks as needed
 
Ideal Experience:
  • Candidates with prior experience on slitters, press machines, or in robotic cell operations are highly encouraged to apply.
 
Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Basic math, reading, and computer skills
  • Mechanical aptitude and measuring tool knowledge a plus
 
Apply NOW!! 
Drug-free workplace and a criminal background check are required. 
EOE