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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Kalamazoo, MI

Machine Operator

Hastings, MI ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

May have the ability to assist/train new machine operators on proper procedures. * Provides suggestions for improvement in processes. * Reinforce and maintain a high level of organization and ...

Machine Operator

Hastings, MI ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

May have the ability to assist/train new machine operators on proper procedures. * Provides suggestions for improvement in processes. * Reinforce and maintain a high level of organization and ...

Machine Operator

Sturgis, MI ยท On-site

$18.50 - $20.06/hr

Job Scope As an Operator, you're responsible for running machinery or producing product at or above ... Responsible for efficient operation of blow mold machines and other associated equipment * Assist ...

packaging machine assistant

Sturgis, MI ยท On-site

$41K - $43K/yr

Load cartons into the folder/gluer feeder and assist with clearing machine line jams to support ... Promptly alert production operators to line issues or low inventory levels to maintain smooth ...

In this role, you'll assist with baler operations, cardboard processing, forklift duties, and ... Operating baler equipment to compress and process cardboard. * Sorting, stacking, and organizing ...

Machine Operator... NEEDED IMMEDIATELY! 1st Shift $16.75 an hour 6am-2:30pm Monday - Friday / 4am-2 ... * Assist all other operators on line. * Perform the work of all stations on rotating basis as ...

Machine Operator: Responsible for operating CNC lathes, mills, and 2nd operation manual lathes to ... Perform designated operations as per drawing/ work order requirements. * Assist in setting up and ...

Operator Associate I

Kalamazoo, MI ยท On-site

$22.16/hr

Operate and adjust machines within process limitations as directed that will produce various ... line(s) * Assist in the training of supporting IP's and other personnel * Ability to read and ...

Operate and adjust machines within process limitations as directed that will produce various ... line(s) * Assist in the training of supporting IP's and other personnel * Ability to read and ...

Folder Gluer Operator

Sturgis, MI ยท On-site

$24 - $30/hr

This role is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining folder gluer machines to ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Operator Associate I

Kalamazoo, MI ยท On-site

$22.16/hr

Operate and adjust machines within process limitations as directed that will produce various ... line(s) * Assist in the training of supporting IP's and other personnel * Ability to read and ...

Operator Associate I

Kalamazoo, MI ยท On-site

$22.16/hr

Operate and adjust machines within process limitations as directed that will produce various ... line(s) * Assist in the training of supporting IP's and other personnel * Ability to read and ...

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Machine Operator Assistant information

See Kalamazoo, MI salary details

$12

$17

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How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Kalamazoo, MI is $17.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.17 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 Kalamazoo, MI?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Kalamazoo, MI are:

What cities near Kalamazoo, MI are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

Cities near Kalamazoo, MI with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Kalamazoo, MI 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 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,293 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Machine Operator

Hastings, MI โ€ข On-site

Gibraltar Industries
Manufacturingย โ€ขย 5 - 10K employees

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Summary: Operates roll forming/fabricating machines such as die cut off presses and roll forming machines by performing the following duties. This job carries out responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies. Use of proper tools provided to measure parts to meet production book specifications.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Produce quality products based on customer requirements.
  • Changeover/adjust/run production on roll formers efficiently.

    • Ability to change over several products and adjust in time allotted per machine book with assistance from supervision for final adjustments.
    • Ability to change all profiles in area.
    • Set up and run a quality part with minimal scrap.
    • Fully capable of press/die adjustments.

  • Sets stops or guides to specified length as indicated by scale, rule, or template.
  • Focus on part quality-consistent with drawings and characteristics (length/straightness/camber/twist).
  • High level of understanding of material codes and production reports (metal codes/cartons/colors/labeling/etc.). Understands metrics and schedules.
  • Measure product dimensions to determine accuracy of machine operation.
  • Performs minor machine maintenance such as oiling machines and dies.
  • May have the ability to assist/train new machine operators on proper procedures.
  • Provides suggestions for improvement in processes.
  • Reinforce and maintain a high level of organization and cleanliness by utilizing 6s standards.
  • Ability to maintain regular attendance at facility.
  • Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.

Competencies
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
Customer Focus
Is dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers; gets first-hand customer information and uses it for improvements in products and services; acts with customers in mind; establishes and maintains effective relationships with customers and gains their trust and respect.
Integrity and Trust
Is widely trusted; is seen as direct, truthful individual, can present the unvarnished truth in an appropriate and helpful manner; keeps confidence; admits mistakes; doesn't misrepresent himself/herself for personal gain.
Time Management
Uses his/her time effectively and efficiently; values time; concentrates his/her efforts on the more important priorities; gets more done in less time than others; can attend to a broader range of activities.
Drive for Results
Can be counted on to exceed goals successfully; is constantly and consistently one of the top performers; very bottom-line oriented; steadfastly pushes self and others for results.
Written Communications
Able to write clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication settings and styles; can get messages across that have the desired effect.
Functional/Technical Skills
Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills to do the job at a high level of accomplishment.
Learning on the Fly
Learns quickly when facing new problems; a relentless and versatile learner; open to change; analyzes both successes and failures for clues to improvement; experiments and will try anything to find solutions; enjoys the challenge of unfamiliar tasks; quickly grasps the essence and the underlying structure of anything.
Patience
Tolerant with people and processes; listens and checks before acting; tries to understand the people and the data before making judgments and acting; waits for others to catch up before acting; sensitive to due process and proper pacing; follows established process.
Education and/or Experience
Trade School or High school diploma; and/or 1 year to 3 years of work-related experience at Quality Aluminum Products or equivalent combination of education and experience. Roll craft, roll form and basic FMA requirement.
Language/Reasoning Ability/Mathematical Skills
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, or decimals. Ability to read, write and speak basic English and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to fill out production reports and follow production schedules.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
May be asked to have a Forklift License to facilitate production. Ability to be certified as a crane operator, forklift and power lock out procedures mastered.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. You must notify the company if such accommodations are needed. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk for most of the 8-to-10-hour shift. Must have the ability use hands to handle, lift, grab, pull or feel; reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, and crouch. The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 35 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving forklifts and pallets. The employee is occasionally exposed to hot or cold conditions. The noise level in the work environment is high and requires the use of hearing protections. We also require steel toed shoes and protective eyewear at all times in the plant.
What we offer
Health & Welfare
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for employees and dependents
  • Health care & dependent flexible spending plans
  • Free Life and AD&D coverage with supplemental coverage options
  • Employee assistance programs focused on mental health

Financial Wellbeing
  • Competitive compensation
  • Bonus opportunities
  • Generous 401(k) plan

Flexibility & Time Off
  • Paid time off, including vacation, bereavement, jury duty, sick leave, disability, holidays.
  • Hybrid & remote work opportunities available

Community & Personal Development
  • Donation matching and time off to volunteer.
  • Educational reimbursement

Disclaimer
The information in this description indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
About Us:
Gibraltar Industries is a leading manufacturer and supplier of products and services for North American agtech, renewable energy, residential, and infrastructure markets. By building solutions that make life better for people and the planet, Gibraltar advances the art and science of engineering, science and technology to shape the future of comfortable living, sustainable power, and productive growing.
Gibraltar Industries by an inclusive, values-driven culture that celebrates and rewards different perspectives, we work together to create lasting positive impact on everyone our business touches. To learn more about what makes us #GibraltarProud, visit our website: www.gibraltar1.com
Gibraltar Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer; and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. In addition, Gibraltar will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship, now or in the future.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.