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

Assistant Cutter Job Summary We are looking for a Machine Operator to work directly under our Floor Supervisor. This position will gain first-hand knowledge of EPS manufacturing processes. Pay: $16 ...

Class One Machine Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Move materials and/or parts between workstations. * Assist other operators by loading or unloading jigs, fixtures, and/or tooling. * Assemble and/or pack products. * Load and unload machines ...

Class One Machine Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Move materials and/or parts between workstations. * Assist other operators by loading or unloading jigs, fixtures, and/or tooling. * Assemble and/or pack products. * Load and unload machines ...

Box Machine Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

Coordinates with Production Supervisor and Assistant Production Supervisor to ensure enough boxes are made for designated shift. Will maintain clean equipment and work area. Will perform other duties ...

Coordinates with Production Supervisor and Assistant Production Supervisor to ensure enough boxes are made for designated shift. Will maintain clean equipment and work area. Will perform other duties ...

Box Machine Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

Coordinates with Production Supervisor and Assistant Production Supervisor to ensure enough boxes are made for designated shift. Will maintain clean equipment and work area. Will perform other duties ...

Box Machine Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $20.50/hr

Coordinates with Production Supervisor and Assistant Production Supervisor to ensure enough boxes are made for designated shift. Will maintain clean equipment and work area. Will perform other duties ...

3rd Shift Machine Operator

Franklin, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Exercise safe working habits while operating machines. * Perform other duties as assigned by the ... to assist colleagues with theirs Consensual - Valuing the ideas and opinions of others and ...

Showing results 41-60

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Gallatin, TN salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Gallatin, TN is $17.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.08 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 Gallatin, TN?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Gallatin, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,157 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Operator, Machine - Weekend First Shift

Insteel Industries

Gallatin, TN • On-site

$22.50 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate designated machinery to meet facility standards and production specifications

  • Perform operator quality checks and conduct equipment inspections for proper operation and mechanical integrity

  • Assist in the repair and maintenance of machines and facilities as required


Insteel Industries rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Machine Operator - Weekend Shift Days

Are you a detailed individual that wants to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. If so, look no further.

About Us

Insteel Industries, established in 1953, started from humble beginnings, embraces strong values, and has its Home Office in Mount Airy, NC.  We are the nation's largest manufacturer of steel wire reinforcing products for concrete construction applications. We manufacture and market prestressed concrete (PC) strand and welded wire reinforcement, including engineered structural mesh, concrete pipe reinforcement, and standard welded wire reinforcement for concrete reinforcement applications. The company operates 11 manufacturing facilities in 9 states.

Not sure what all that is? Our product is found in large concrete projects including roads, bridges, parking garages, etc... Come join our team and make an impact on our country’s infrastructure.

Schedule

Friday-Sunday 12-hour shifts 7:00am-7pm

Work 36 hours, Get paid for 40 hours

About You

The person we are looking for has a strong foundation in mechanical and analytical skills. A person with great judgment, initiative, and the ability to deal with complex machinery. The ideal candidate has experience working with and on machinery. 

Position Snapshot

A machine operator is commonly expected to know how his/her equipment operates and be able to identify and repair simple mechanical problems like stalls or jams. Workers hired into this position will be trained to eventually operate various machines and learn processes related to manufacturing steel wire products. To be successful in this role you will:

  • Operate designated machinery to facility standards and production specifications
  • Perform necessary operator quality checks according to ASTM standards
  • Conduct equipment inspections for proper operation and mechanical integrity
  • Assist in the repair and maintenance of machines and facilities as required
  • Use computer systems to track and document daily production activity
  • Assist other operators as needed
  • Practice safe work habits to reduce risk to as low as reasonably achievable. Including adhering to strict PPE guidelines and learning safety standards for the facility and equipment.
  • Work effectively within a team environment

Requirements and Education:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to complete simple forms and understand simple written instructions
  • Knows and understands basic mechanical processes and equipment function principles.
  • Understands basic mathematical principles and has the ability to perform simple arithmetic skills involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals

For your hard work, you receive:

  • Competitive base pay, up to $27.00 per hour based on Pay for Skills program 
  • Receive additional $2.00/hour shift premium for working the weekend shift. 
  • Bonus eligibility based on facility performance
  • Paid time off including holidays and vacation
  • Excellent benefits to include medical, dental, vision, company paid life/short-term disability/long-term disability insurance, flexible spending accounts (FSA), health savings account (HSA), 401(k) with match, company paid tele-health, stock purchase plan, tuition reimbursement assistance, and Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)

These duties may be modified or changed at any time at the sole discretion of management either orally or in writing. The above statements are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of this position. All employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

INSTEEL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you are qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability. To request accommodation, contact a Human Resources Representative.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to consider applicants residing in locations outside the US requiring Visa sponsorship at this time.

About the Company:

Insteel Industries is the nation’s largest manufacturer of steel wire reinforcing products for concrete construction, including prestressed concrete strand and welded wire reinforcement such as engineered structural mesh and concrete pipe reinforcement. Founded in 1953 and headquartered in Mount Airy, NC, Insteel operates 11 manufacturing plants across the U.S. and has a dedicated engineering services division. As a publicly traded company, our goal is to be the supplier of choice by delivering superior value to our customers. Learn more at insteel.com/careers.

Fraud Prevention Notice:

Please note that Insteel Industries will never ask applicants to purchase equipment, send money, or provide payment information at any point in the hiring process. We may request certain personal information only after an official offer has been extended and the background check and drug screen have been successfully completed. If you receive a request for sensitive information or payment before these steps, it is not from our company. To protect yourself, please report any suspicious activity to our HR team by calling us at (336) 786-2141.

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