Operator Assistant Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator Trainee / Operator Assistant

Position Details

• Job Title: Machine Operator Trainee / Operator Assistant (Machine Operator Assistant / Production Helper)
• Immediate Supervisor: Manufacturing Operations Manager
• Position Type: Full-Time / Direct Hire or Contract-to-Hire
• Shift / Hours: Flexible early-morning starts (Monday through Friday) mirroring Operator hours (typically 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM, 5:30 AM to 2:00 PM, or 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM depending on production needs).
• Pay Rate: $22.00 / hour

Position Summary

This is an intermediate, trainee-level support position designed for a motivated individual looking to build a long-term career in manufacturing. In this role, you will act as the critical ' machine operator helper for our primary Machine Operators. You will keep production flowing efficiently by handling material preparation, pallet breakdown, staging, and packaging/assembly tasks to maximize machine uptime.

This is a dynamic, physically engaging, hands-on role designed to foster your growth. Under the direct guidance of experienced operators, you will learn to monitor parts for compliance, observe machine performance, and actively train to transition into a skilled, independent Machine Operator role.

Material Prep & Staging

• Pallet & Material Breakdown: Break down incoming pallets of materials (rolls and boxes), unpack materials, and unstrap shipments.
• Staging & Organization: Move materials safely using pallet jacks. Label and organize prepped raw stock and transfer rolls to staging areas so the operator has immediate access to them.

Operator Assistant & Machinery Support

• Machine Loading: Assist with loading prepped raw materials and over-laminates onto machines under the operator's direction.
• Setup & Changeovers: Assist with production setup, material changeovers, and basic machinery adjustments.
• Machine Learning: Take direction from experienced operators and supervisors to learn the safe operation of laminating, chopping, punch press, and other production machinery.

Line Maintenance & Waste Removal

• Waste Management: Regularly empty large scrap tubs and laundry carts to prevent any machine downtime due to debris buildup.
• Housekeeping: Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in compliance with ISO plant standards.

Quality Assurance & Inspection

• In-Process Checks: Perform in-process quality inspections alongside the Supervisor and Level III team members.
• Spec Monitoring: Monitor machine performance and parts to ensure they meet strict tolerances and specifications; immediately notify the team leader of any defects.

Assembly, Packaging & Safety

• Output Goals: Perform packaging and assembly duties to maintain overall production schedules and quality goals.
• Safety Adherence: Follow all department safety procedures, standard operating procedures, and wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: Previous manufacturing experience is highly preferred. Prior experience as an Electromechanical Assembler, Mechanical Assembler, Production Assembler, General Laborer, or Machine Operator Assistant is highly desired.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent is preferred, but not required.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Must be mechanically inclined with a strong willingness and physical capability to learn the machinery trade.
• Technical & Measurement Skills: Basic understanding of work instructions, neat and legible handwriting, and the ability to perform basic measurements using plant equipment.
• ISO Familiarity: Familiarity with safety, organization, and cleanliness standards of an ISO production environment is a plus.
• We are seeking an individual who wants to do more than basic packaging. You must take initiative, possess a strong work ethic, have a positive attitude, and be driven to grow your career.
• Reliability & Schedule: Must be reliable and highly flexible to mirror the early-morning start times of our active Operators.

Physical Requirements

• Lifting: Must be able to comfortably and regularly lift up to 50 lbs.
• Stamina: Able to perform physically active work, standing, walking, bending, twisting, and breaking down heavy pallets, for 90% to 100% of the shift on the production floor.