ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Dumas, AR (NOW HIRING)

Diamond Pet Foods

Production Supervisor

Dumas, AR · On-site

$55K - $70K/hr

... machine under-utilization) * Assist in the forecasting and planning of workload for various areas ... Knowledge of SOP's (Standard Operating Procedures). Ability to develop procedures that are simple ...

Diamond Pet Foods

Production Supervisor

Dumas, AR · On-site

... machine under-utilization) * Assist in the forecasting and planning of workload for various areas ... Knowledge of SOP's (Standard Operating Procedures). Ability to develop procedures that are simple ...

Clearwater Paper

Senior Process Engineer

Arkansas City, AR · On-site

$110K - $165K/yr

Leads the technical process for operating areas to solve equipment and process-related problems ... Assists with proposals to justify capital expenditures, help manages technical aspects and assist ...

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Assistant JobsMachine Operator Assistant Jobs in Dumas, AR

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Dumas, AR salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Dumas, AR is $17.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

How much do you get paid as a machine operator assistant?

The average hourly wage for a machine operator assistant typically ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials may also increase total compensation.

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 cities near Dumas, AR are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs? Cities near Dumas, AR with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:
Machine Operator Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Dumas, AR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,753 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Production Supervisor

Diamond Pet Foods

Dumas, AR • On-site

$55K - $70K/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Diamond Pet Foods rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

138th of 437 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

POSITION OVERVIEW:
It is the responsibility of the Production Supervisor to coordinate raw materials, machinery, and staffing/crewing to provide the highest return of investment to Diamond Pet Foods , while achieving production and packaging goals as outlined by the Plant Manager. This position is considered a “key” employee.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Supervise the day-to-day workflow of production, packaging, warehouse, food safety and sanitation and quality control employees.
  • Minimize wasted resources (i.e. wasted materials, product, employee time, machine under-utilization)
  • Assist in the forecasting and planning of workload for various areas of the production and packaging departments.
  • Under the direction of the Plant Manager and Assistant Plant Manager enforce equitable disciplinary program as specified according to policies and the Employee Handbook.
  • Inspect products to verify conformance to specifications and direct set-up and adjustments of machines.
  • Maintain production schedules and estimate worker hour-requirements for completion of job assignment, including adjusting work procedures to meet production schedules.
  • Initiate, ensure employee compliance, and enforce all quality and food safety/product handling policies/practices and actions to FDA requirements.
  • Interpret safety policies/practices to employees, including enforcing safety regulations.
  • Interpret specifications, production changes and job/work orders.
  • Recommend measures to improve production methods, equipment performance, and quality of product. May include suggesting changes in work conditions and the use of equipment to increase efficiency of available resources.
  • Analyze and resolve work problems, and/or assist employees in solving work problems.
  • Initiate and/or suggest plans to motivate employees to achieve work goals.
  • Maintain time and production records.
  • Confer with other supervisors to coordinate activities of individual departments.
  • Assist in the training of various key-operating areas of the production facility.
  • Other duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, ABILITY AND SKILLS:
  • Knowledge of GMP’s.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with production employees, other supervisors, and management.
  • Knowledge of SOP’s (Standard Operating Procedures). Ability to develop procedures that are simple and easy to follow. Ability to write reports, SOPs and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to read and understand production stages, work orders and other production shift requirements and directives.
  • Ability to supervise multiple production employees.
  • Ability to work independently without immediate direction or supervision.
  • Ability to interact with management and staff at all levels.
  • Ability to multi task and can handle pressures and deadlines.
  • Confident and conscientious individual with the desire to make a difference in the organization.
  • Deadline driven in a challenging, evolving amp; fast-paced environment.
  • Results oriented.
  • Attendance and accountability are key requirements for the Production Supervisor as a “key” position for production management.
  • Self-motivated with a high degree of initiative and can work independently.
  • Dedicated team player.
  • Demonstrated leadership in order to be proactive in solving problems and troubleshooting issues.
  • Excellent organizational skill.
  • Willing to accept challenges.
  • Bright and insightful with demonstrated common sense.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
  • Strong analytical and quantitative skills.
  • Proficiency with MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
  • Candidate must have the ability to multi-task and be detailed oriented as well as working in a team environment.
  • Candidate should also be performance and goal oriented, and must have a high professional demeanor and appearance.
  • ** Candidate must be willing to work any shift.
EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE:
  • Demonstrated experience in food manufacturing or other similar industry that involves food handling safety and production; or the equivalent combination of education, training and experience is a large plus.
  • Demonstrated experience in supervising a team of production employees.
  • A Bachelor degree in Engineering, Business, or other related field is a plus.
  • Must be computer literate.
QUALIFICATIONS AND PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
  • Stand 90% of the time to oversee production on the floor, sit 10% of the time to do reports and accomplish administration and management of team employees.
  • Must be able to lift, carry or move 50 or more pounds of product as required when necessary.
  • Pushing, pulling, stooping, walking, standing and climbing a ladder to operating systems and lines are routine as required to monitor production.
  • Must work in a safe, professional manner at all times.
  • Must report any accidents, property damage, or near misses to the Safety Manager and Plant or Assistant Plant Manager immediately.
  • Indoor plant production work 95% of the time with 5% coordinating or overseeing outside transportation offloading and uploads.

What Diamond Pet Foods employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply