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Machine Operator Jobs in Newport, TN (NOW HIRING)

Achieve operating goals of work cell/area in all aspects of the manufacturing process, such as safety, quality throughput and cost.**Rotate job assignments as required. Learn all operations in ...

Associate Machine Operator

Morristown, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

The Production Operator is responsible for the efficient and accurate assembly, machining, and finishing of door components in a manufacturing environment. This role requires attention to detail ...

Associate Machine Operator

Morristown, TN

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

The Production Operator is responsible for the efficient and accurate assembly, machining, and finishing of door components in a manufacturing environment. This role requires attention to detail ...

Operator - Machine 3rd Shift

Morristown, TN

$15 - $18.25/hr

Purpose Statement The Machine Operator controls machinery to mold ice cream cakes in a safe, sanitary, cost-effective, and efficient manner that meets company food safety and quality standards. Also ...

Associate Machine Operator-Router

Morristown, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

The Production Operator is responsible for the efficient and accurate assembly, machining, and finishing of door components in a manufacturing environment. This role requires attention to detail ...

New

Artazn - Plating Machine Operator Artazn has secured new business opportunities and is excited to offer direct hiring opportunities for production operators. We provide competitive compensation ...

Artazn - Plating Machine Operator Artazn has secured new business opportunities and is excited to offer direct hiring opportunities for production operators. We provide competitive compensation ...

Artazn - Plating Machine Operator Artazn has secured new business opportunities and is excited to offer direct hiring opportunities for production operators. We provide competitive compensation ...

3rd Shift Machine Operator

Morristown, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

The Production Operator is responsible for the efficient and accurate assembly, machining, and finishing of door components in a manufacturing environment. This role requires attention to detail ...

3rd Shift Machine Operator

Morristown, TN

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

The Production Operator is responsible for the efficient and accurate assembly, machining, and finishing of door components in a manufacturing environment. This role requires attention to detail ...

3rd Shift Machine Operator

Morristown, TN

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

The Production Operator is responsible for the efficient and accurate assembly, machining, and finishing of door components in a manufacturing environment. This role requires attention to detail ...

3rd Shift Machine Operator

Morristown, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

The Production Operator is responsible for the efficient and accurate assembly, machining, and finishing of door components in a manufacturing environment. This role requires attention to detail ...

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Machine Operator information

See Newport, TN salary details

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How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Newport, TN is $15.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $16.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Machine operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and meeting production deadlines. Addressing these issues usually involves diligent machine maintenance, following safety protocols, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Many companies provide ongoing training to help operators stay up to date with new machinery and processes, fostering a supportive environment for troubleshooting and skill development.

What is the work of a machine operator?

A machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining industrial machinery to produce goods or components. They monitor equipment for proper functioning, perform quality checks, and follow safety protocols, often using tools like control panels and gauges. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and sometimes certification or training in specific machinery.

How much do you get paid as a machine operator?

The average salary for a machine operator in the United States ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $25,000, while experienced operators with certifications can earn over $60,000 annually. Many machine operators work full-time shifts, often requiring knowledge of specific machinery and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Machine Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectMachine OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, production linesConstruction sites, mining, heavy machinery operation
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, assemblyConstruction, mining, transportation
Job FocusOperating specific machinery like presses, lathes, or CNC machinesOperating heavy equipment like bulldozers, cranes, or excavators

While both roles involve operating machinery, Machine Operators typically work with manufacturing equipment in factories, focusing on production machinery. Equipment Operators usually handle heavy construction or earth-moving equipment in outdoor environments. The skills and certifications often overlap, but the work settings and machinery types differ significantly.

What is a machine operator?

Machine operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing or production processes. They ensure equipment runs efficiently and safely, monitor machine output, and perform routine inspections or minor repairs as needed. Machine operators often work with specialized equipment and are trained to follow safety protocols and quality standards. Their role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and meeting production targets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or CNC machinery are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators quickly address issues and maintain productivity. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient machine operation and minimizing production downtime.

What do machine operators do?

Machine operators are skilled in operating machinery, often specializing in one type of machinery or industry to become an expert. Machine operators also have a general skillset, knowing how to operate a wide range of industrial machinery. Since there are numerous industries and sectors that use a multitude of machinery, there is always room to learn more.

What cities near Newport, TN are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Newport, TN with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Newport, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,340 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Assistant Machine Operator

International Paper

Greeneville, TN

$21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


International Paper rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 292 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

294th of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

Position Title:

Machine Assistant

Pay Rate:

$21.50

Category/Shift:

Hourly Full-Time 

Dayshift: 6:30am-4:30pm (Monday-Thursday)

Nightshift: 8:30pm-6:30am (Sunday-Wednesday)

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  1. Assist machine operators with setup, operation, and changeovers of manufacturing equipment.

  2. Perform quality checks and inspections to ensure products meet customer and company specifications.

  3. Report quality concerns, equipment issues, or production deficiencies to the operator or supervisor immediately.

  4. Count, inspect, stack, bundle, and package finished products according to work order requirements.

  5. Complete production paperwork, routing tags, logs, checklists, and other required documentation accurately.

  6. Verify product specifications and ensure proper labeling, packaging, and material identification.

  7. Assist with machine feeding, material preparation, and product handling throughout the production process.

  8. Support preventive maintenance activities and basic machine troubleshooting as directed.

  9. Assist with setup preparation for upcoming production runs.

  10. Maintain housekeeping standards by keeping work areas clean, organized, and free of debris.

  11. Follow all safety, quality, food safety, and company policies and procedures.

  12. Provide backup support to machine operators as needed.

  13. Safely operate material handling equipment when trained and authorized.

  14. Work collaboratively with team members to meet production, quality, and waste reduction goals.

QUALIFICATIONS:  Employee must have basic math skills, basic maintenance skills, and some experience. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

LANGUAGE SKILLS: Be able to communicate with supervisors and understand simple instructions.  Be able to read and understand operator's manual (Accommodations will be made to employees).  Employees must also be able to write work orders and fill out necessary production paperwork.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Must be able to add and subtract basic fractions (5+5).  Be able to use a calculator for addition, subtraction, multiplying and dividing.

REASONING ABILITY Be able to isolate and solve basic mechanical problems - Basic machine troubleshooting.

LANGUAGE SKILLS Be able to communicate with supervisors and understand simple instructions.  Be able to read and understand operator's manual (Accommodations will be made to employees).  Employees must also be able to write work orders and fill out necessary production paperwork.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS At times occasional lifting / carrying up to 25 pounds required with more frequent lifting/carrying of 1-20 pounds. The job requires reaching below waist and knee, and at waist level, kneeling, squatting, and climbing stairs on rare occasions. More frequent hand/wrist work, keyboarding and mousing, power grasping, and pushing/pulling materials. More frequent walking left and right-hand work and simple grasping and constantly standing on feet for extended periods of time. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT Employee must wear protective glasses and earplugs when using compressed air.  Most of the work is inside the plant with occasional work (<1% of the time) outside.  The plant is chilly in the winter (above freezing) and is hot in the summer (non-air conditioned).  The plant is generally clean of debris and clutter, but the manufacturing process generates a fair amount of corrugated dust.  There are not any hazardous materials in the manufacturing process.  The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

The Benefits You Will Enjoy:
International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and pets

The Career You Will Build:
Leadership training, promotional opportunities
The Impact You Will Make:
We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 125 years. Join our team and you'll see why our team members say they're Proud to be IP.
The Culture You Will Experience:
International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring and inclusive workplaces. We have team members all around the world with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. These are our strengths. We are committed to creating a culture where all individuals are respected, valued, engaged and have an opportunity to do their best work every day. We invite you to bring your uniqueness, creativity, talents, experiences, and safety mindset to be a part of our increasingly inclusive and diverse culture.
The Company You Will Join:
International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) creates sustainable packaging solutions that enable our customers, teammates and shareowners to thrive in an ever-changing world. We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect what matters most, strengthen supply chains and create lasting value. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.

International Paper is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.  International Paper complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact reasonable.accommodations@ipaper.com or (877) 973-3919.


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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