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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Starkville, MS

Westlake

Operator Technician

Prairie, MS

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Drive fork lift. * Assist the machine operator on start-up and shut-down. * Keep a constant watch on vacuum chambers from his station and finished product * At coolers, notifying the shift supervisor ...

Stark Aerospace

CNC Machinist

Columbus, MS

$20 - $27.25/hr

Troubleshoot machine malfunctions, setup discrepancies, and machining inefficiencies to minimize ... Preferred Qualifications: * 3+ years of experience operating CNC machines in a precision ...

Israel Aerospace Industries

CNC Machinist

Columbus, MS · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Troubleshoot machine malfunctions, setup discrepancies, and machining inefficiencies to minimize ... Preferred Qualifications: * 3+ years of experience operating CNC machines in a precision ...

K&G PETROLEUM LLC

Assistant Manager Store 732 SG4

Mayhew, MS · On-site

$19.50 - $21/hr

The Assistant Manager position is responsible for maintaining and operating a Company-owned retail ... POS (cash register), store telephone, lottery machine, money order machine, phone card machine, EBT ...

Comprehensive Logistics

Forklift Operator

Columbus, MS

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

... places * Assist with extra workload, covering absences, ensuring proper material is sent to ... As the most advanced 3PL partner in the industry, we integrate cutting-edge technology, machine ...

Comprehensive Logistics

Forklift Operator

Columbus, MS · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

... places * Assist with extra workload, covering absences, ensuring proper material is sent to ... As the most advanced 3PL partner in the industry, we integrate cutting-edge technology, machine ...

Comprehensive Logistics

Forklift Operator

Columbus, MS · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

... places * Assist with extra workload, covering absences, ensuring proper material is sent to ... As the most advanced 3PL partner in the industry, we integrate cutting-edge technology, machine ...

Lyle Machinery Co

Field Service Tech

Columbus, MS

... machine up to operating status. * Read, analyze, and interpret technical information from ... * Assist in quality control and assurances pursuant company standards. * Assist in maintaining ...

Lyle Machinery Co

Field Service Tech

Columbus, MS · On-site

... machine up to operating status. * Read, analyze, and interpret technical information from ... * Assist in quality control and assurances pursuant company standards. * Assist in maintaining ...

Lyle Machinery Co

Parts Counter

Columbus, MS

Description Lyle Machinery Co. is a family-owned and operated equipment dealer headquartered in ... Duties: Assist all customers (retail and shop) in selecting required parts in a friendly ...

Lyle Machinery Co

Parts Counter

Columbus, MS · On-site

Job Type Full-time Description Lyle Machinery Co. is a family-owned and operated equipment dealer ... Duties: • Assist all customers (retail and shop) in selecting required parts in a friendly ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Assistant JobsMachine Operator Assistant Jobs in Starkville, MS

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Starkville, MS salary details

$12

$16

$20

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Starkville, MS is $16.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $17.26 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 cities near Starkville, MS are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

Cities near Starkville, MS with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:

Machine Operator Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Starkville, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,539 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Operator Technician

Westlake

Prairie, MS

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Westlake Chemical rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 101 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

SUMMARY

Operate equipment properly, safely, and efficiently, resulting in neat, accurate and efficient packaging of all finished product.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

May include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Maintain a safe work environment while performing job duties.
  • Set up Gaylord boxes and mark tares correctly - having a sufficient amount set up at all times to meet production demands.
  • Inspect each Gaylord box and liner prior to filling to ensure that it is clean and suitable for use.
  • Weigh and package material correctly with neat and legible labels on each package.
  • Drive fork lift.
  • Assist the machine operator on start-up and shut-down.
  • Keep a constant watch on vacuum chambers from his station and finished product
  • At coolers, notifying the shift supervisor if anything is suspected.
  • Handling and storing all finished product properly and efficiently, including bulk materials.
  • Keep area and tools neat, clean and stored properly.
  • Break open, disassemble, clean and reassemble coolers properly. Responsible for all cleaning of the coolers on his shift.
  • Stack all packages neatly, even in temporary storage.
  • Must be company oriented, willingly completing any tasks that are assigned to him by the production foreman.
  • Understand and follows all Safety, ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 established procedures.
  • Understand that shift schedules are not set; willingly work the hours assigned with an understanding that overtime can be assigned at any given time.
  • Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Score Silver or above on Work Keys test.
  • Certified Forklift License and prior forklift experience is preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and work on a computer, stand; use hands, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee will be required to stand from 10 to 12 hours per day. The employee must be legally able to drive a motor vehicle. They employee must be able to work around and close to rotating equipment. The employee frequently is required to walk; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit and climb or balance. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 55 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Manufacturing environment includes: dust, outdoors, high noise levels.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.

If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here.You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.

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