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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Greeneville, TN

Operator - Fusion Assistant

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Operate bagging machines, packaging machines, and floor scales * Determine operating condition of ... Load sand into kilns * Assist in maintenance of moving or stationary equipment * Perform ...

Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PURPOSE: Machine Operator 1 (MO1), a field based position, is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing ...

Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PURPOSE: Machine Operator 1 (MO1), a field based position, is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing ...

Follow established methods and procedures to assist the coater operator maximize material ... Check machine settings and oven temperatures. * Assign personnel tasks and check all stations for ...

New

This role includes providing directions to assistant operators and maintaining efficient production ... Operation of complex machinery * Solvents, fumes and inks * Variable Temperatures * Ability to work ...

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Machine Operator Assistant information

See Greeneville, TN salary details

$11

$16

$19

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Greeneville, TN is $16.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.02 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 Greeneville, TN are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs? Cities near Greeneville, TN with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Greeneville, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,061 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Assistant Machine Operator

International Paper

Greeneville, TN • On-site

$21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


International Paper rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 292 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

294th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

Position Title:

Machine Assistant

Pay Rate:

$21.50

Category/Shift:

Hourly Full-Time 

Dayshift: 6:30am-4:30pm (Monday-Thursday)

Nightshift: 8:30pm-6:30am (Sunday-Wednesday)

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  1. Assist machine operators with setup, operation, and changeovers of manufacturing equipment.

  2. Perform quality checks and inspections to ensure products meet customer and company specifications.

  3. Report quality concerns, equipment issues, or production deficiencies to the operator or supervisor immediately.

  4. Count, inspect, stack, bundle, and package finished products according to work order requirements.

  5. Complete production paperwork, routing tags, logs, checklists, and other required documentation accurately.

  6. Verify product specifications and ensure proper labeling, packaging, and material identification.

  7. Assist with machine feeding, material preparation, and product handling throughout the production process.

  8. Support preventive maintenance activities and basic machine troubleshooting as directed.

  9. Assist with setup preparation for upcoming production runs.

  10. Maintain housekeeping standards by keeping work areas clean, organized, and free of debris.

  11. Follow all safety, quality, food safety, and company policies and procedures.

  12. Provide backup support to machine operators as needed.

  13. Safely operate material handling equipment when trained and authorized.

  14. Work collaboratively with team members to meet production, quality, and waste reduction goals.

QUALIFICATIONS:  Employee must have basic math skills, basic maintenance skills, and some experience. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

LANGUAGE SKILLS: Be able to communicate with supervisors and understand simple instructions.  Be able to read and understand operator's manual (Accommodations will be made to employees).  Employees must also be able to write work orders and fill out necessary production paperwork.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Must be able to add and subtract basic fractions (5+5).  Be able to use a calculator for addition, subtraction, multiplying and dividing.

REASONING ABILITY Be able to isolate and solve basic mechanical problems - Basic machine troubleshooting.

LANGUAGE SKILLS Be able to communicate with supervisors and understand simple instructions.  Be able to read and understand operator's manual (Accommodations will be made to employees).  Employees must also be able to write work orders and fill out necessary production paperwork.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS At times occasional lifting / carrying up to 25 pounds required with more frequent lifting/carrying of 1-20 pounds. The job requires reaching below waist and knee, and at waist level, kneeling, squatting, and climbing stairs on rare occasions. More frequent hand/wrist work, keyboarding and mousing, power grasping, and pushing/pulling materials. More frequent walking left and right-hand work and simple grasping and constantly standing on feet for extended periods of time. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT Employee must wear protective glasses and earplugs when using compressed air.  Most of the work is inside the plant with occasional work (<1% of the time) outside.  The plant is chilly in the winter (above freezing) and is hot in the summer (non-air conditioned).  The plant is generally clean of debris and clutter, but the manufacturing process generates a fair amount of corrugated dust.  There are not any hazardous materials in the manufacturing process.  The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

The Benefits You Will Enjoy:
International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and pets

The Career You Will Build:
Leadership training, promotional opportunities
The Impact You Will Make:
We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 125 years. Join our team and you'll see why our team members say they're Proud to be IP.
The Culture You Will Experience:
International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring and inclusive workplaces. We have team members all around the world with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. These are our strengths. We are committed to creating a culture where all individuals are respected, valued, engaged and have an opportunity to do their best work every day. We invite you to bring your uniqueness, creativity, talents, experiences, and safety mindset to be a part of our increasingly inclusive and diverse culture.
The Company You Will Join:
International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) creates sustainable packaging solutions that enable our customers, teammates and shareowners to thrive in an ever-changing world. We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect what matters most, strengthen supply chains and create lasting value. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.

International Paper is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.  International Paper complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact reasonable.accommodations@ipaper.com or (877) 973-3919.


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About International Paper

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

International Paper is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion.

Industry

Paper manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US

Year founded

1898