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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Vance, AL (NOW HIRING)

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In this role, you will operate a variety of heavy machinery and assist with construction utility ... Proven experience operating heavy construction machinery such as excavators, loaders, and water ...

Learn and assist on vehicle check in tasks as needed. * Supports and assists with Yard Staff ... Experience operating heavy machinery. * Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset.

Backhoe Operator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$43K - $57K/yr

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operating heavy machinery, specifically ... Maintain a clean and organized work area, including the equipment and surrounding site. * Assist ...

Backhoe Operator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$43K - $57K/yr

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operating heavy machinery, specifically ... Maintain a clean and organized work area, including the equipment and surrounding site. * Assist ...

Learn and assist on vehicle check in tasks as needed. * Supports and assists with Yard Staff ... Experience operating heavy machinery. * Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset.

CNC Machinist III

Cottondale, AL

$18 - $24.75/hr

This role involves setting up and operating CNC mills, CNC lathes, manual machine tools, grinders ... Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment following all safety regulations. * Assist ...

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Machine Operator Assistant information

See Vance, AL salary details

$12

$16

$20

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Vance, AL is $16.60, 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 Vance, AL are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

Cities near Vance, AL with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Vance, AL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,521 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Ergon Asphalt and Emulsions - Facility Operator

Mulga, AL • On-site

Ergon
Oil and Gas Extraction • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist with testing products in the lab and sample product quality.

  • Load and unload trucks, railcars, and barges, and process materials to produce high-quality asphalt binder.

  • Conduct minor maintenance on equipment and participate in safety and quality meetings.


Ergon Inc. rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Facility Operator - Working with a tight-knit team to solve the everyday issues of producing high quality asphalt binder. 

We are a great company with great pay and great benefits. Ergon Asphalt Partners is a relationship-driven company that values each employee's willingness to learn and contribute to the team. We are family owned with locations throughout the U.S. and Mexico, but we pride ourselves on maintaining a small company feel.

Our position is for a full-time Facility Operator at our Mulga, AL facility. The ideal operator would possess good organizational, time management, problem-solving, and housekeeping skills. We want people who look for opportunities to learn new skills and can contribute to making our facility an even better place to work.

Our facility operators produce neat and polymer modified asphalt oil for sale to paving and repair customers. This position works in the tank farm with other operators as a team to produce, process, ensure quality, and load/unload materials directly to our customers.

Please do not apply if you are looking for an office-based job. We need people who enjoy being outside in a variety of weather conditions so that we as a team can better serve our customers. 

Facility Operator Job Duties:

  • Assist with testing products in the lab
  • Input quality specifications and batch data into reports
  • Sample product quality
  • Load and unload trucks, railcars, and barges
  • Conduct minor maintenance on equipment in the plant (pumps, racks, mixers)
  • Attend and participate in daily production/quality/EHS (Environmental Health & Safety) meetings
  • Utilize our proactive tools (safety checklist, etc.)
  • Ensure good facility housekeeping
  • Stay current on required training
  • Wear the appropriate provided PPE, (hard hat, face shield, long-sleeve shirt, H2S monitor, steel toe boots, safety glasses)
  • Effectively communicate between fellow operators, management, our trucking company and customers to meet needs

Operator Requirements:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • Proficiency in Excel (preferred)
  • Ability to work without supervision
  • Ability to read and follow written instructions
  • Basic math skills (e.g., add, subtract, multiply, divide)
  • Ability to learn computer skills
  • Able to lift 50 pounds with assistance and perform jobs that involve heavy lifting, bending, climbing tanks and other structures. 
  • Valid driver's
  • Able to work the days and hours as scheduled, Monday through Sunday
  • Outdoor work in all seasons

Ergon offers a competitive benefit package: 401(k), Health, Life, Dental, Holidays, Vacation, Sick Leave, Tuition Assistance, and Profit Sharing.

Ergon is an EEO/AAP Employer.

Email your resume, No Walk-ins or Phone Calls will be accepted. 

Applicants will be contacted if selected for an interview.

Employment offer is contingent upon pre-employment drug test, background check, and MVR.

Position to be filled: Operator/Facility Operator/Plant Operator 


Ergon, Inc. is an EEO employer and a drug-free workplace. Applicants must be authorized to work in the US and have a valid driver's license. Any employment offers are contingent upon a pre-employment drug test, background check, and MVR.


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