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Production Associate Machine Operator Jobs in Montana

Machine Operator

Helena, MT

$16 - $19.25/hr

Machine Operator The Independent Record is seeking a full-time machine operator to join the team ... Wing mail, sorting and bagging of product * Feed insert machine head; correct misses and doubles

Machine Operator

Helena, MT · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Machine Operator The Independent Record is seeking a full-time machine operator to join the team ... Wing mail, sorting and bagging of product * Feed insert machine head; correct misses and doubles

Machine Operator

Helena, MT

$16 - $19.25/hr

Machine Operator The Independent Record is seeking a full-time machine operator to join the team ... Wing mail, sorting and bagging of product * Feed insert machine head; correct misses and doubles

The Machine Operator inspects products for quality, reports any issues to leadership, completes production and material documentation accurately, and supports inventory, preventative maintenance ...

Machine Operator

Manhattan, MT · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

The Machine Operator inspects products for quality, reports any issues to leadership, completes production and material documentation accurately, and supports inventory, preventative maintenance ...

The operator will receive training on machinery, safety, and quality control, and will work under ... Operate basic production equipment (e.g., sealing machines, labeling machines, packaging machines ...

The operator will receive training on machinery, safety, and quality control, and will work under ... Operate basic production equipment (e.g., CNC machines, presses, packaging machines, injection ...

Job Summary The Machine Operator I is an entry-level role responsible for setting up and operating ... Operate basic production equipment (e.g., CNC machines, presses, packaging machines, injection ...

The operator will receive training on machinery, safety, and quality control, and will work under ... Machine Operation: • Operate basic production equipment (e.g., CNC machines, presses, packaging ...

Job Summary The Machine Operator I is an entry-level role responsible for setting up and operating ... Operate basic production equipment (e.g., CNC machines, presses, packaging machines, injection ...

Job Summary The Machine Operator I is an entry-level role responsible for setting up and operating ... Operate basic production equipment (e.g., CNC machines, presses, packaging machines, injection ...

The operator will receive training on machinery, safety, and quality control, and will work under ... Operate basic production equipment (e.g., CNC machines, presses, packaging machines, injection ...

Job Summary The Machine Operator I is an entry-level role responsible for setting up and operating ... Operate basic production equipment (e.g., sealing machines, labeling machines, packaging machines ...

Job Summary The Machine Operator I is an entry-level role responsible for setting up and operating ... Operate basic production equipment (e.g., CNC machines, presses, packaging machines, injection ...

The operator will receive training on machinery, safety, and quality control, and will work under ... Operate basic production equipment (e.g., CNC machines, presses, packaging machines, injection ...

The operator will receive training on machinery, safety, and quality control, and will work under ... Operate basic production equipment (e.g., CNC machines, presses, packaging machines, injection ...

The operator will receive training on machinery, safety, and quality control, and will work under ... Machine Operation: • Operate basic production equipment (e.g., CNC machines, presses, packaging ...

Job Summary The Machine Operator I is an entry-level role responsible for setting up and operating ... Operate basic production equipment (e.g., CNC machines, presses, packaging machines, injection ...

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Production Associate Machine Operator information

What is a production associate machine operator?

Production Associate Machine Operators are workers responsible for operating and maintaining machinery in manufacturing environments. Their main duties include setting up machines, monitoring production processes, performing quality checks, and troubleshooting equipment issues. They ensure that products are made efficiently and meet quality standards, often working as part of a team on a production line. Safety and attention to detail are important in this role, as is the ability to follow instructions and meet production goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a production associate machine operator?

To thrive as a Production Associate Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with operating machinery, basic computer systems, and safety protocols is typically required, and some roles may prefer certifications such as OSHA training. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions precisely help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production, minimizing errors and maintaining workflow in a manufacturing environment.

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

Production Associate Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent quality while meeting production quotas, adapting to fast-paced environments, and troubleshooting mechanical issues on the fly. To address these, it’s important to develop strong attention to detail, communicate effectively with team members and supervisors, and proactively participate in equipment training sessions. Many employers also encourage operators to suggest process improvements, which can lead to increased efficiency and recognition within the team.

What cities in Montana are hiring for Production Associate Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in Montana with the most Production Associate Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Production Associate Machine Operator job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Machine Operator

Columbia Falls, MT • On-site

SmartLam North America
Construction • 11 - 50 employees

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description


Summary Description:

The Machine Operator will be responsible for performing various tasks including set up, operating, monitoring, troubleshooting and performing preventive maintenance on assigned machines. The Machine Operator will work in a small group setting (2- 7 other employees). The Machine Operator will also be responsible for inspecting parts to ensure they meet specifications, making adjustments, or tool changes as necessary to maintain quality specifications. Will train. 

Swing Shift Schedule: Monday - Thursday, 4:00 P.M. - 2:30 A.M. (wage plus shift differential pay)

Cross train in the following Machine Centers:

  • Finger Jointer
  • CLT Press
  • Sander
  • Planer
  • CNC

Duties and Responsibilities: 

  • Comply with all safety and health regulations
  • Set up, operate, and monitor a production machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines
  • Adjusts machine settings to complete tasks accurately, according to specifications and in a timely fashion
  • Communicate with team members and support teams to ensure continuous production of the correct product at high-quality levels with minimal wasted time and materials
  • Troubleshoot issues and perform minor maintenance
  • Follow SOP’s to ensure quality products are produced
  • Maintain a clean work environment
  • Cross train in other machine centers (Finger Joint, Press, Sander, Planer, CNC)
  • Cross train other operators

Preferred Skills & Experience:

  • High School Diploma or GED (Preferred but not required)
  • Mechanical Skills (Preferred but not required)
  • Previous machine operator experience in a manufacturing facility. (Preferred but not required)
  • Basic computer skills (Preferred but not required)
  • Ability to follow written and oral instructions
  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • Willingness to work different shifts (Preferred not necessarily requires)
  • Self-motivated and capable of operating with minimal supervision
  • Reliable individual with an excellent time and attendance record


Physical Demands (To be successful as a Machine Center Operator, the individual must be able to meet the physical demands of this position) 
 

Lifting up to 50lbs

Repetitive Lifting 35lbs 

Carrying up to 50lbs

Pushing/Pulling up to 50lbs

Pinching/Gripping 

Reaching overhead

Reaching away from body

Standing up to 10-hours

Walking up to 10-hours



The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. 

Equal Employment Opportunity
SmartLam North America is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable laws regarding discrimination. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, disability, age, genetic information, or any other protected status.

Americans with Disabilities: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.




Monday - Thursday, 4:00 P.M. - 2:30 A.M.