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Machine Operator

Found in practically any manufacturing facility, machine operators are employed to set up, operate, and adjust complex machinery used for the production of vital parts and products.  Associates may enter basic operation careers that require button pushing, but the majority of occupations are more involved.  Machine operators are often required to calculate and calibrate machines in order to set up specific measurements.  Operators then load the machines and begin running materials.  Associates periodically check the goods to ensure proper measurements are being produced.  If measurements are off, operators must make the necessary adjustments to ensure product quality.  Operators may also be required to unload finished products from their machines to designated areas, and if necessary, begin another set up to run a different size or type of product.  Professionals may be required to operate lathes, mills, bores, presses, drills, planes, grinders, extrusion, or molding machines.  Associates must be highly knowledgeable of all equipment characteristics and methods in order to detect and fix any problems that arise.  Overall, these workers maintain equipment and produce quality goods within strict schedules. 

Employees are able to enter a number of industries to carry out machine operating duties, so there are no standard requirements for entrance into these jobs.  Commonly, the best training candidates are able to receive is obtained on the job.  Candidates generally begin training under senior operators and complete a variety of basic tasks, but as they gain more knowledge, they are able to take on more complex duties.  Associates may begin to operate machines independently after completing training which can range from one week to one year.  It is necessary for operators to carefully follow pre-established policies and procedures in order to maintain product integrity, good machine condition, and safety.  Associates possessing mechanical aptitude, good communication skills, and the knowledge of basic math concepts will experience the highest success in these careers. 

Machine operators commonly work 40 hours per week, with positions usually available on first, second, or third shifts.  Manufacturing facilities are becoming increasingly better with cleaner and less noisy facilities, but the environments are normally uncomfortable.  In order to avoid the dangers associated with heavy machinery, operators are required to wear protective eye and ear wear, face masks, steel-toe work boots, and/or gloves as necessary, depending on the products that are being modified.  Physical stamina is needed for those who are required to stand and lift heavy materials throughout the day. 

Due to technological advances, machine operator jobs are expected to experience an overall decline in employment opportunities.  In spite of these predictions, associates will see a number of skilled positions open as a result of baby boomers retiring through 2014.  With advances in plastics, many metal parts are being replaced with plastic parts which will bring higher opportunities for those careers.  Professionals with extensive knowledge of manufacturing machines and processes will be more capable of adapting to the ever changing industry.   

For more information on a career as a machine operator, please visit the following sites:

• Dictionary of Occupational Titles
• GPO Access
• MicroKinetics Corporation
• New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health
• Occupational Hazards

If you are searching for employment as a machine operator, or an employer searching for production professionals, please visit iHireManufacturing.  We are a niche job board focusing only in manufacturing careers and candidates.