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Temporary Machine Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Utility Technician

Decatur, AL

$18 - $24.25/hr

Monitor and support systems operating in high-heat conditions, with equipment fluids reaching ... The work setting is industrial, hot, and often dirty, with machinery that can involve fluids ...

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Temporary Machine Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$11

$17

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How much do temporary machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary machine operator in Decatur, AL is $17.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Machine Operator, you generally need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes experience with specific equipment or certifications like OSHA safety training are commonly required. Reliability, adaptability, and strong teamwork skills help individuals excel in this fast-paced and dynamic role. These skills and qualifications are vital for maintaining productivity, ensuring safety, and contributing to smooth operations on the production floor.

What are the typical challenges faced by temporary machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Temporary machine operators often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new equipment and workflows, as assignments may vary between different facilities. It's common to have a limited onboarding period, so being proactive in asking questions and seeking clarification from supervisors is essential. Another challenge can be understanding and complying with safety protocols unique to each workplace. Building strong communication with permanent staff members and remaining attentive to training resources can help overcome these hurdles and ensure success in the role.

What are Temporary Machine Operators?

Temporary Machine Operators are workers who are hired for a short-term period to operate machinery in manufacturing, production, or warehouse settings. Their responsibilities typically include setting up machines, monitoring their operation, making minor adjustments, and ensuring quality standards are met. Temporary roles often fill in during busy seasons, employee absences, or special projects. These positions usually require basic mechanical aptitude and adherence to safety protocols. Prior experience operating similar machines is often preferred but not always required.

What is the difference between Temporary Machine Operator vs Permanent Machine Operator?

AspectTemporary Machine OperatorPermanent Machine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and basic machine operation certificationsSame as temporary, often with additional certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentShort-term assignments, often in manufacturing or production plantsLong-term employment in similar settings
Employment StatusTemporary, often through staffing agenciesFull-time or part-time, directly employed by the company
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate machinery, follow safety protocols, and perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot issues

The main difference between a Temporary Machine Operator and a Permanent Machine Operator lies in employment duration and stability. Temporary Machine Operators work on short-term assignments, often through staffing agencies, while Permanent Machine Operators are employed directly by the company with ongoing roles. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but the employment structure and job security differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Temporary Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Temporary Machine Operator job openings:
Technician- Manufacturing Engineer I USA (D Crew)

Technician- Manufacturing Engineer I USA (D Crew)

First Solar

Trinity, AL • On-site

$18.56 - $25.98/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 hours ago


First Solar rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

392nd of 511 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Description
First Solar reserves the right to offer you a role most applicable to your experience and skillset.
Basic Job Functions:
Assist in the installation and qualification of systems, troubleshoot day-to-day manufacturing issues, identify, and/or implement system improvements that contribute to the achievement of throughput, yield, and product performance goals.
Education/Experience:
  • High School Diploma or GED required and must meet one of the following criteria to qualify:

  • Associates degree in technical discipline.

  • 2+ years of machine or mechanic experience as a primary job function.

  • One year First Solar technical experience.

  • Six months' experience as Temporary Manufacturing Engineering Technician at First Solar.

Required Skills/Competencies:
  • Safety first mindset.

  • General electrical/electronic and mechanical knowledge.

  • Self-directed, ability to work with minimal supervision.

  • Good written and oral communications skills in English.

  • Able to trouble shoot and solve problems on the manufacturing line.

  • Ability to deal with administrative as well as technical tasks.

Essential Responsibilities:
  • Solve day-to-day production, equipment, and process problems.

  • Identify and implement yield and product performance improvements.

  • Develop methods to assign causes to yield excursions.

  • Set up and maintain gauges.

  • Ensure all processes are running on target as defined by the Process Control Plan

  • Respond to SPC process control alarms, bringing processes back into control.

  • Execute planned process experiments, collect, and analyze data and report experimental results.

  • Collect data relating to daily tool performance and associated product performance.

  • Provide training to production associates.

  • Develop and update internal documentation including drawings, standard operating procedures, and process specifications.

  • Interface with internal associates and supplier representatives, as required, to complete assigned projects.

  • Develop a complete understanding of area processes, equipment, and support systems.

  • Provide training to production associates.

  • Maintain effective communication with production associates and manufacturing engineers.

  • Disposition non-conforming product according to established criteria (NCP)

  • Adhere to all safety procedures and good housekeeping standards.

  • Ensure waste materials are discarded in their designated containers.

  • Ensure hazardous waste containers stay closed except when adding or removing waste.

  • Ensure satellite accumulation containers stay in their designated locations.

  • Other duties as assigned.

  • Job description subject to change at any time.

Reporting Relationships:
  • This position reports to the Engineer- Manufacturing.

  • This position will not have direct reports.

Travel:
  • 0 - 5%

Estimated Salary Range:
  • $18.56-$25.98

US Physical Requirements:
  • Will sit, stand, or walk short distances for up to 12 hours per day.

  • Will climb stairs or steps on a frequent basis.

  • Will lift up to 58 pounds on an occasional basis, according to work instruction.

  • Will lift up to 37 pounds on a frequent basis.

  • Will push or pull up to 50 pounds of force on an occasional basis.

  • Will push or pull up to 37 pounds of force on a frequent basis.

  • Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.

  • 20/40 vision in each eye separately and both eyes (with or without correction), the ability to distinguish between red, yellow, and green and peripheral vision >70 degrees is required.

  • May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.

  • May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.

  • Must comply with all safety standards and procedures.

  • Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including, but not limited to: steel-toed shoes, cut-resistant gloves, jackets, aprons &/or arm guards, safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection & respirators) as a condition of employment and continued employment (requires little or no facial hair).

Potential candidates will meet the education and experience requirements provided on the above job description and excel in completing the listed responsibilities for this role. All candidates receiving an offer of employment must successfully complete a background check and any other tests that may be required.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: First Solar is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that diversity and inclusion is a driving force in the success of our company.

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