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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Lafayette, TN

Komline Sanderson

Machine Operator

Gordonsville, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a variety of metal ... Follow all company safety policies, quality standards, and standard operating procedures. * Assist ...

Komline Sanderson

Machine Operator

Gordonsville, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a variety of metal ... Follow all company safety policies, quality standards, and standard operating procedures. * Assist ...

Tom James Company

Sewing Machine Operator

Lafayette, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

The Sewing Machine Operator is responsible for operating industrial sewing machines to construct ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Tom James Company

Sewing Machine Operator

Lafayette, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

The Sewing Machine Operator is responsible for operating industrial sewing machines to construct ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Alleguard

1st Shift Machine Operator

Portland, TN · On-site

$16/hr

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 ...

Novolex

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 ...

Novolex

Box Machine Operator

Lebanon, TN

$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 ...

Novolex

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 ...

Novolex

Box Machine Operator

Lebanon, TN

$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 ...

Hendrickson USA, LLC

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 ...

Welch Packaging Group

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Train and assist assistant and helper with job duties on the machine. * Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping. * Turn in maintenance work ...

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Machine Operator Assistant information

See Lafayette, TN salary details

$12

$16

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How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Lafayette, TN is $16.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $17.31 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 Lafayette, TN?

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

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

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

Machine Operator Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Lafayette, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,589 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Machine Operator

Komline Sanderson

Gordonsville, TN • On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

About the Company: Komline is a high-growth private company with operations across ten locations in the US. With a strong track record of rapid expansion and strategic acquisitions, we are growing our team and seeking candidates who excel in a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment to help drive our continued success.

About the Role: The Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining a variety of metal fabrication equipment, including CNC tube laser, CNC plate laser, plate rollers, press brakes, vertical band saws, and other fabrication machinery, to produce components that meet engineering drawings and customer specifications. This role works with a variety of materials and thicknesses while ensuring dimensional accuracy, quality workmanship, and safe operation of equipment. The Machine Operator partners closely with production, welding, engineering, and quality teams to support efficient manufacturing operations and on-time customer delivery.

This description outlines key responsibilities and qualifications; it may not encompass all aspects of the role.

Key Responsibilities

  • Set up and operate fabrication equipment including plate rollers, press brakes, vertical band saws, and small press brakes used in system fabrication. 
  • Operate a CNC laser, including loading part files, making necessary machine adjustments, and processing materials accurately according to specifications and engineering drawings. 
  • Form and bend metal components using hydraulic press brakes while maintaining required dimensions and tolerances. 
  • Cut plate, pipe, tubing, and structural materials using vertical band saws. 
  • Safely utilize overhead cranes, hoists, and other material handling equipment to transport heavy plate, structural and assemblies. 
  • Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work orders, and fabrication specifications. 
  • Select the appropriate tooling, dies, and machine settings based on material thickness and job requirements. 
  • Verify finished dimensions using tape measures, calipers, squares, protractors, and other measuring devices. 
  • Perform machine setup and routine adjustments to ensure quality and efficient production. 
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and perform basic preventative maintenance and lubrication. 
  • Report equipment malfunctions, quality concerns, or safety issues promptly. 
  • Complete production documentation and maintain accurate shop records. 
  • Maintain a clean, organized work area in accordance with 5S standards. 
  • Follow all company safety policies, quality standards, and standard operating procedures. 
  • Assist other fabrication and production departments as workload demands. 

 Qualifications

  • 2+ years of experience operating fabrication equipment in a manufacturing environment preferred. 
  • Previous experience operating an automated laser cutting equipment including loading part files and adjusting machine settings. Experience with plate rolls, hydraulic press brakes, band saws, welders, and other metal fabrication equipment a plus. 
  • Ability to safely perform machine setups, material loading and unloading, tooling changes, and routine adjustments. 
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and fabrication prints. 
  • Experience using precision measuring instruments to verify dimensional accuracy. 
  • Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot minor machine issues. 
  • Experience operating overhead cranes and forklifts is preferred.


Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
  • Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds independently and heavier materials with mechanical assistance.
  • Frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, twist, and reach throughout the shift.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate machinery, overhead crane, hand tools, and precision measuring instruments. 
  • Ability to accurately judge distances and spatial relationship, with or without reasonable accommodation. 
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, vibration, dust, heat, and moving mechanical equipment.

Equal Opportunity Statement: Komline is an EEO employer – M/F/Vets/Disabled