ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

Toppan

Pouching Assistant (Night Shift)

Hickory, NC · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Pouching Assistant (Night Shift) Location: Hickory, NC Pay Rate: $ 19.32 /hour + $2.00/hour shift ... Operate all bag machines safely and efficiently * Follow all food safety and regulatory compliance ...

Toppan

Pouching Assistant (Night Shift)

Hickory, NC

$15 - $18/hr

Pouching Assistant (Night Shift) Location: Hickory, NC Pay Rate: $ 19.32 /hour + $2.00/hour shift ... Operate all bag machines safely and efficiently * Follow all food safety and regulatory compliance ...

Toppan

Pouching Assistant (Night Shift)

Hickory, NC · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Pouching Assistant (Night Shift) Location: Hickory, NC Pay Rate: $ 19.32 /hour + $2.00/hour shift ... Operate all bag machines safely and efficiently * Follow all food safety and regulatory compliance ...

Toppan

Pouching Assistant (Night Shift)

Hickory, NC

$15 - $18/hr

Pouching Assistant (Night Shift) Location: Hickory, NC Pay Rate: $ 19.32 /hour + $2.00/hour shift ... Operate all bag machines safely and efficiently * Follow all food safety and regulatory compliance ...

Leggett & Platt

Machine Operator (3rd Shift)

Conover, NC

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator II will cut or slice foam to customer specifications. (3rd Shift - Sunday ... Check all tags and measure each block before cutting to determine correct sizes. * Assist unloading ...

Leggett & Platt

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Conover, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

The Machine Operator II will cut or slice foam to customer specifications. (2nd Shift, Monday ... Check all tags and measure each block before cutting to determine correct sizes. * Assist unloading ...

Leggett & Platt

Machine Operator (3rd Shift)

Conover, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator II will cut or slice foam to customer specifications. (3rd Shift - Sunday ... Check all tags and measure each block before cutting to determine correct sizes. * Assist unloading ...

Leggett & Platt

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Conover, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

The Machine Operator II will cut or slice foam to customer specifications. (2nd Shift, Monday ... Check all tags and measure each block before cutting to determine correct sizes. * Assist unloading ...

Leggett & Platt

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Conover, NC

$15.75 - $19/hr

The Machine Operator II will cut or slice foam to customer specifications. (2nd Shift, Monday ... Check all tags and measure each block before cutting to determine correct sizes. * Assist unloading ...

Leggett & Platt

Machine Operator (3rd Shift)

Conover, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator II will cut or slice foam to customer specifications. (3rd Shift - Sunday ... Check all tags and measure each block before cutting to determine correct sizes. * Assist unloading ...

Larsens

Be Seen First

Industrial Sewing Machine Operator (Canvas & Awnings)

Newton, NC · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Keep work area clean, organized, and safe. * Assist with other production and fabrication duties as ... Experience operating Juki, Consew, Adler, Pfaff, or similar industrial sewing machines.

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Assistant JobsMachine Operator Assistant Jobs in Hickory, NC

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Hickory, NC salary details

$12

$16

$20

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Hickory, NC is $16.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.21 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 Hickory, NC?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:

Machine Operator Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Hickory, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,444 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Salvagnini Machine Operator - BETCO

Janus International Group

Statesville, NC

$15.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Janus International rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

This position is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining the Salvagnini S4 (punching and shearing) and P4 (panel bending) machines to produce high-quality sheet metal components. This role plays a critical part in maintaining production efficiency, precision, and safety in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.


  • Prepare, load, and operate the Salvagnini S4 and P4 machines according to production plans.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, CAD files, and work orders to determine machine settings and tooling requirements.
  • Adjust programs or parameters as needed to ensure product quality.
  • Inspect parts for conformance using tape measure, calipers, and other measuring tools.
  • Monitor machine performance and troubleshoot errors or deviations.
  • Ensure parts are correctly stacked, labeled, and moved to the next process stage.
  • Perform routine machine maintenance and clean-up tasks.
  • Report mechanical issues to maintenance personnel promptly and assist with troubleshooting.
  • Accurately record production data, material usage, and downtime.
  • Communicate any process changes or improvement ideas to supervisors.
  • Wear proper PPE and follow all company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
  • Maintain a clean and organized workplace.
  • Other duties as assigned.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • 1-3 years of experience operating Salvagnini or similar CNC sheet metal machinery.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings.
  • Basic computer and machine control system proficiency.
  • Previous forklift certification or material handling experience preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail and mechanical aptitude.
  • Familiarity with lean manufacturing or 5S practices preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Regularly required to stand, bend and lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

What Janus International employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply