1

Machine Operator Associate Jobs in Grove Hill, AL

Machine Operator Associate information

See Grove Hill, AL salary details

$10

$16

$20

How much do machine operator associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator associate in Grove Hill, AL is $16.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Machine Operator Associate vs Machine Technician?

AspectMachine Operator AssociateMachine Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingTechnical diploma or certification; specialized training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floors, assembly linesMaintenance workshops, production facilities
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, assembly plantsManufacturing, industrial maintenance
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between a Machine Operator Associate and a Machine Technician lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Machine Operator Associates primarily focus on operating machinery and ensuring smooth production, often with minimal technical training. In contrast, Machine Technicians handle maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs, requiring specialized technical skills and certifications. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, but they differ in complexity and scope of work.

What are some common challenges faced by Machine Operator Associates during their shifts?

Machine Operator Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining attention to detail over long shifts, troubleshooting minor equipment malfunctions, and meeting production quotas while ensuring product quality. Adapting to a fast-paced environment and adhering to strict safety protocols are also essential aspects of the role. Effective communication with team members and supervisors helps in resolving issues quickly and keeping operations running smoothly.

What does an entry level machine operator do?

An entry-level machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring manufacturing machinery to produce products according to specifications. They perform routine inspections, follow safety protocols, and may need basic technical skills or certifications such as OSHA training. The role typically involves working in a manufacturing or production environment with a focus on efficiency and safety.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often found in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators may earn higher wages due to technical skills and certifications. Roles such as CNC machine operators or those with advanced programming and maintenance skills tend to have higher salaries, especially with experience and relevant certifications. Salary levels can also increase with supervisory responsibilities or working in hazardous environments.

What are Machine Operator Associates?

Machine Operator Associates are skilled workers responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining machinery in manufacturing or production environments. They ensure machines function efficiently, perform routine inspections, and may assist with troubleshooting mechanical issues. Machine Operator Associates often follow safety protocols, read blueprints or instructions, and collaborate with other team members to meet production goals. Their role is essential in keeping manufacturing processes running smoothly and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Operator Associate, and why are they important?

To excel as a Machine Operator Associate, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, basic mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes experience with CNC machines or related certifications is valuable. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help ensure safe and efficient production. These capabilities are crucial for maintaining equipment performance, minimizing downtime, and supporting overall manufacturing quality and safety.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

The average salary for a machine operator associate typically ranges from $30,000 to $45,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled operators with certifications or experience in specific machinery may earn higher wages, and some positions offer shift differentials or overtime pay.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Some high-paying roles for machine operator associates or similar skilled trades can reach $700 a day, especially with overtime, specialized certifications, or working in high-demand industries like manufacturing, construction, or oil and gas. These positions often require extensive experience, technical skills, or working in remote or hazardous environments. Typically, such pay rates are associated with unionized jobs, contract work, or roles requiring advanced certifications and safety training.
MTC - Journeyman I (Machinist)

MTC - Journeyman I (Machinist)

International Paper Company

Pine Hill, AL • On-site

$39.69/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


International Paper rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 291 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

315th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description


Position Title:
Journeyman I - Machinist
Pay Rate:
$39.69
Category/Shift:
Hourly Full-Time
Physical Location:
7600 Hwy 10 West
Pine Hill, AL
36769
334-963-4391
The Job You Will Perform:
This is a journeyman-level machinist responsible to complete scheduled and routine maintenance work along with performing many other duties both as part of a team and independently. Duties for machinist include, but are not restricted to, laying out, fabricating, assembling, installing, and maintaining parts and equipment. This position includes a progressive comprehensive training program to develop into a multi-craft mechanic.
Responsibilities:
  • Obtain daily work orders
  • Set up and operate a variety of machine tools
  • Fit and assemble part to fabricate or repair to maintain industrial machines
  • Observe and listen to operating machines or equipment to diagnose machine malfunction
  • Understanding blueprints and field drawings and machine parts
  • Utilize machine measuring equipment
  • Dismantle machine or equipment
  • Replace defective part
  • Repair, reproduce or rebuild various parts
  • Perform welding and burning as needed
  • Fabricate machine parts
  • Perform aligning of machines and field machining
  • Operate cranes, tow motors and forklifts
  • Have computer skills
  • Knowledge of metric system
  • Ability to work in heights
  • Experience with flange facers, boring holes, key cutters and journal squirrel
  • AutoCAD experience
  • Assist mechanical craft as needed
  • Perform other duties as assigned

The Skills You Will Bring:
Successful candidate should have the ability to:
  • Personally exhibit safety as a core value and effectively communicate a shared vision for safety
  • Represent both company policy and direction
  • Develop knowledge of department and mill operations processes, equipment and systems
  • Utilize excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Work effectively alone or within a team
  • Utilize strong organizational skills to handle multiple tasks effectively
  • Analyze problems and develop solutions independently or with teams
  • Basic computer skills
  • Make timely and effective decisions

Required Experience:
  • Minimum high school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Eligible for employment in the US
  • Technical training or certification as a Machinist; or at least 3 years of work experience as a Machinist
  • Willing and capable of working all shifts
  • Able to work in a team environment

Plus - must be willing to meet the following requirements:
  • Undergo a drug screen for illicit use of drugs as a condition of employment.
  • Submit to periodic drug screens as a condition of employment.
  • Work any shift and/or a rotating shift schedule
  • Work overtime on a regular basis and with last minute notification.
  • Work holidays and/or weekends on a regular basis
  • Respond to emergencies during off hours and weekends
  • Wear required safety equipment/PPE
  • Continue to develop skills to become a multi-skill mechanic (including millwright, welding, and other fields as needed)
  • Operate or work in industrial conditions (i.e. warm/hot, dusty/dirty, around hazardous chemicals, noise, and heavy machinery or elevated working surfaces with proper safety training and safety protection).

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Associate degree in a maintenance discipline.
  • Relevant work experience in an industrial environment.
  • Strong math/physics understanding.
  • Prior experience as a multi-skill mechanic.

What International Paper employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


International Paper logo

About International Paper

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

International Paper is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion.

Industry

Paper manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US

Year founded

1898