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Spray Machine Operator Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

Ravalli County

Seasonal Weed Sprayer

Victor, MT · On-site

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ... Operates spray moors and machinery, such as sprayer pumps or portable spray equipment. * Properly ...

Ravalli County

Seasonal Weed Sprayer

Victor, MT · On-site

$17.78/hr

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ... Operates spray moors and machinery, such as sprayer pumps or portable spray equipment. * Properly ...

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Spray Machine Operator information

What are Spray Machine Operators?

Spray Machine Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating machines that spray various materials—such as paint, coatings, pesticides, or chemicals—onto surfaces or products. They set up and maintain the equipment, monitor the spraying process, and ensure consistent and even application according to specifications. Their work is essential in industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and construction, where precise coating or treatment is required for quality and protection. Spray Machine Operators must also follow safety guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure proper handling of hazardous substances.

What are some common challenges faced by Spray Machine Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Spray Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent spray quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and working safely with potentially hazardous materials. To address these, operators should follow strict maintenance schedules, participate in regular equipment training, and adhere to safety protocols like using personal protective equipment. Staying organized and communicating proactively with team members also helps minimize downtime and ensures production targets are met efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Spray Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and basic mechanical skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with spray equipment, calibration tools, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are vital soft skills to excel in this role. These abilities ensure accurate application, equipment maintenance, and a safe, efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Spray Machine Operator vs Paint Technician?

AspectSpray Machine OperatorPaint Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications in equipment operationHigh school diploma; may have certifications in painting or coating techniques
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsAuto body shops, manufacturing, industrial facilities
Job FocusOperating spray equipment to apply coatings or paintsPreparing surfaces, applying paint, finishing work

The main difference is that Spray Machine Operators focus on operating spray equipment to apply coatings, while Paint Technicians handle surface preparation and detailed painting tasks. Both roles require knowledge of safety procedures and may share certifications, but their daily tasks and work environments differ slightly.

What job categories do people searching Spray Machine Operator jobs in Montana look for? The top searched job categories for Spray Machine Operator jobs in Montana are:
What cities in Montana are hiring for Spray Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Montana with the most Spray Machine Operator job openings:
Spray Machine Operator jobs near you
Seasonal Weed Sprayer

Seasonal Weed Sprayer

Ravalli County

Victor, MT • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Salary: $17.78

Position: Seasonal Weed Sprayer Classification: Temporary

Department: Weed District Reports to: Weed District Coordinator

Posting Date: March 22, 2026 Application Deadline: Until Filled

Position Grade: Grade 8 Rate of Pay: $17.78/ hr.

Position Schedule: Monday-Thursday Benefit Eligible: Full benefits/PERS


Job Summary:

Provide summer skilled labor duties in the operation of spraying noxious weeds. Mandatory training session will be conducted on plant management, herbicide and road safety, truck operation and maintenance. Communicate with landowners professionally and educate them about new invader noxious weeds. Applicant must be proficient driving and backing up a large 1-ton or larger pick-up truck hauling a trailer (approximately 40 feet in total), loaded with up to 500 gallons of water. Early morning hours required. Work will be outside all day long in high temperatures with an adherence to the standards of safety. Laborers are required, with or without reasonable accommodation, to regularly stand, walk, and use hands and fingers to handle, feel and operate objects, tools and controls. Occasionally required to sit, climb, balance, stoop, crouch, crawl, talk and hear. Handling chemicals safely is a high priority. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals is imperative. Also needed is the ability to fill out daily applications records and log all activities.

This is a grant-funded position. The end date of this position may be based on funding, weather and other factors.

Essential Functions:

  • Performs all assigned duties.
  • Properly identify noxious weeds and apply chemical mixture to those weeds.
  • Properly use equipment and machinery.
  • Follow safety procedures in working with chemicals.
  • Demonstrates physical stamina to perform position requirements.
  • Observes work hours.
  • Demonstrates punctuality.
  • Deals tactfully with the public.
  • Maintains accurate and timely records.
  • Input daily application records into computer.
  • Download GPS data logger into computer.
  • Willing to adapt to varied schedule
  • Acknowledges that some workdays may be cancelled by weather conditions

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None.

Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Mix pesticides for applications.
  • Learnto identify noxious weeds to determine the appropriate course of treatment.
  • Fill sprayer tanks with water and chemicals, according to formulas.
  • Operates spray moors and machinery, such as sprayer pumps or portable spray equipment.
  • Properly use equipment and machinery.
  • Follow safety procedures in working with chemicals.
  • Maintain proper care and cleaning of machines.
  • Demonstrates physical stamina to perform position requirements.
  • Observes work hours.
  • Demonstrates punctuality.
  • Deals tactfully with the public.
  • Maintains accurate and timely records.
  • Input daily application records into computer.
  • Download GPS and mapping data into computer.

Required Education and Experience:

  • Completion of High School Diploma or GED.
  • Valid State of Montana driver license with a clean driving record.
  • Ability to operate a standard transmission 1 ton or larger pick-up truck.
  • Ability to operate UTV
  • Must meet eligibility requirements to be insured under the Countys motor vehicle insurance policies. (Drivers records will be checked for compliance with Countys insurance policies.)
  • Need to understand and perform basic math, percentages and area calculations.
  • Physical able to lift and/or move up to 100 pounds, as well as perform other job-related functions listed above.
  • Must be physically able to effectively perform all position requirements in steep, uneven or unstable terrain.

Work Environment:

Outdoors in the summer elements of high temperatures while traveling to various spray sites.

EEO Statement:

Ravalli County is an equal employment opportunity employer (EEO). Ravalli County does not refuse employment or discriminate in compensation or the other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment based upon race, color, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, pregnancy, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, political beliefs, genetic information, or veterans status.

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.