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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Richland, WA (NOW HIRING)

Investment Farms

Machine Operator II

Plymouth, WA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

The Machine Operator II is a skilled equipment operator responsible for independently running ... Complete equipment setups and basic to moderate changeovers; assist with startups/shutdowns.

Investment Farms

Grain Operator I

Plymouth, WA · On-site

Responsibilities: * Assist with unloading and loading grain from trucks or railcars under direct ... Ability to follow procedures, ask questions, and work safely around machinery. * Ability to learn ...

Circle K Stores, Inc.

Store Assistant Manager

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Performs multi-function operation of fuel console, lottery machines, money order machine, telecom ... Notifies the Store Manager of any sales, cash, inventory or operating discrepancy. * Follows ...

Circle K Stores, Inc.

Store Assistant Manager

Umatilla, OR · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

Performs multi-function operation of fuel console, lottery machines, money order machine, telecom ... Notifies the Store Manager of any sales, cash, inventory or operating discrepancy. * Follows ...

Circle K

Store Assistant Manager

Hermiston, OR

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Performs multi-function operation of fuel console, lottery machines, money order machine, telecom ... Notifies the Store Manager of any sales, cash, inventory or operating discrepancy. * Follows ...

Circle K

Store Assistant Manager

Umatilla, OR · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

Performs multi-function operation of fuel console, lottery machines, money order machine, telecom ... Notifies the Store Manager of any sales, cash, inventory or operating discrepancy. * Follows ...

Circle K

Store Assistant Manager

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Performs multi-function operation of fuel console, lottery machines, money order machine, telecom ... Notifies the Store Manager of any sales, cash, inventory or operating discrepancy. * Follows ...

Circle K Stores, Inc.

Store Assistant Manager

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Performs multi-function operation of fuel console, lottery machines, money order machine, telecom ... Notifies the Store Manager of any sales, cash, inventory or operating discrepancy. * Follows ...

JM Eagle

Electrical Mechanic B

Umatilla, OR

$26 - $32.25/hr

Connects power supply wires to machines and equipment and connects cables and wires between ... Communicate well with other employees and operators to determine repair problems needed. * Assist ...

JM Eagle

Electrical Mechanic B

Umatilla, OR

$26 - $32.25/hr

Connects power supply wires to machines and equipment and connects cables and wires between ... Communicate well with other employees and operators to determine repair problems needed. * Assist ...

CRH

Mechanic

Pasco, WA · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

... electronically operated mobile equipment. You'll learn the inner workings of each piece of ... We'll assist with training to provide you with the skills you need to be successful. If you've got ...

CRH

Mechanic

Pasco, WA · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

... electronically operated mobile equipment. You'll learn the inner workings of each piece of ... We'll assist with training to provide you with the skills you need to be successful. If you've got ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Assistant JobsMachine Operator Assistant Jobs in Richland, WA

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Richland, WA salary details

$14

$19

$23

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Richland, WA is $19.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.10 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 are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Richland, WA? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Richland, WA are:
What cities near Richland, WA are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs? Cities near Richland, WA with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:
Machine Operator Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Richland, WA 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 $40,212 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Machine Operator II

Investment Farms

Plymouth, WA • On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

River Point Farms is seeking a highly capable Machine Operator to join our onion processing plant team!
Summary:
The Machine Operator II is a skilled equipment operator responsible for independently running standard production equipment, performing intermediate troubleshooting, completing changeovers, and supporting line performance. This role works with moderate supervision, using developing mechanical and technical skills to maintain safe, efficient, and high-quality production.
Responsibilities:
  • Independently operate assigned equipment following established procedures.
  • Perform intermediate troubleshooting and equipment adjustments to maintain line performance.
  • Conduct and document quality checks; escalate issues when needed.
  • Complete equipment setups and basic to moderate changeovers; assist with startups/shutdowns.
  • Perform routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning, lubrication, and minor corrections.
  • Support Maintenance staff by providing accurate information for work orders.
  • Help onboard and mentor other operators.
  • Track production counts, downtime, and efficiency; communicate material needs; support continuous improvement.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • High school or equivalent.
  • 2+ years of experience operating production or processing equipment in a manufacturing environment.
  • Solid mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform basic troubleshooting and equipment adjustments.
  • Familiarity with machine interfaces, basic computer use, and production documentation systems.
  • Strong understanding of SOPs, GMPs, and foundational food safety practices.
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Ability to accurately record production, quality, and downtime information.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain forklift certification if required.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus.

Preferred:
  • Experience in a food processing or high regulation environment.
  • Experience supporting equipment setups, calibrations, or more complex changeovers.
  • Familiarity with multiple types of production equipment.

Working conditions:
  • Regular lifting up to ~50 lbs; prolonged standing and walking; frequent hand use to operate machinery and controls; occasional climbing, kneeling, or crawling; good vision and communication for safety and quality; sustained physical work.
  • Industrial processing or plant environment; machinery and conveyors; dust, fumes, chemicals; wet or slippery surfaces; temperature fluctuations; loud noise requiring hearing protection; shift work including nights, weekends, and holidays; PPE mandatory.

AgReserves, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender, identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Qualified applicants must be legally and lawfully authorized to be employed and work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship - AgReserves, Inc. is not sponsoring visas at this time.
AgReserves offers medical, dental, vision, life, and AD&D insurance coverage. Additionally, employees can contribute to an FSA, and to an employer matched 401(K). Employees can apply for Tuition Assistance for continuing education purposes. All full-time employees are eligible to participate in a discretionary profit-sharing bonus. For more detailed information please visit our benefits site:https://www.agreserves.com/benefits/. AgReserves, Inc. complies with the current state minimum wage laws for all positions, regardless of the pay ranges posted.

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