A machine operator is majorly seen working with heavy equipment. They help in installing heavy machines and maintaining them by carrying out tests and repairs from time to time. They are also called a forklift operator.
Their main duties include performing routine maintenance checks, following stringent safety rules, among others. They can be a self-starter, being willing to undergo training if applicable so that they could have adequate knowledge of their job role.
Let’s take a look at a machine operator job description template.
Table of contents
- Machine Operator Job Description
- Machine Operator Responsibilities
- Machine Operator Qualification
- Education, Experience, and License Requirements of a Machine Operator
- How Much Does A Machine Operator Earn?
- Machine Operator Experience Requirements
- Career Path For Machine Operators
- References
- We Also Recommend
Machine Operator Job Description
The job of a machine operator is to install, maintain and operate machines. Machine operators must have a solid knowledge of the machines and their workability. That is why they must partake of comprehensive training to help them carry out their duties well.
Machine operators may work with mechanical or computer-operated machinery. And using this equipment means that once in a while, they may develop some fault. That is why, as a machine operator, you must be able to discover the problem, analyze the situation and come up with a solution.
Therefore, you must be detail-oriented, willing to learn, and follow instructions. You must also have the ability to work with others and make sure safety measures are put in place and followed to reduce the risk of casualty.
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Machine Operator Responsibilities
The responsibilities of a machine operator include:
- Operates and maintains lathe and milling machine
- Analyses drawings, instructions, designs or samples to make certain that accurate production is carried out
- Chooses the right machine setting for a given task
- Takes accurate measurement for cutting or shaping machine part
- Plans the appropriate order of tasks to ensure every detail is given adequate attention
- Monitors production and adjusts settings while work is ongoing
- Identifies faults and carries out adequate maintenance and repairs
- Cleans machinery and maintains sanitation at the workplace
- Follows safety and health instructions and wears the right PPE for the job
- Contributes to team efforts, offering suggestions and recommendations where necessary
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Machine Operator Qualification
A machine operator must possess:
- Exceptional management and mechanical skills
- Solid attention to details, accuracy, and safety
- Concrete written and verbal communication skills
- Numerical, analytical and computer skills
- Ability to lift heavy equipment, bend, stand or walk for long periods
- Willingness to work in shifts – late hours, weekends, or overtime
- Ability to work as a team
- Ability to read manuals, blueprints and
handbooks.
Education, Experience, and License Requirements of a Machine Operator
- High school diploma, GED, or its equivalence
- 2+ years of experience as a machine operator
- Solid knowledge of safety measures
- Licensure from a professional body
Education and Training Requirements of a Machine Operator
Most times, a high school diploma or GED is required for one to assume the position of a machine operator. Some applicants may need on-the-job training to under the intrinsic of machine operation and maintenance of equipment. This could be because of their level of knowledge of the job and also the requirements of the recruiter.
In other cases, the applicant may need to have completed a vocational training program, especially if the recruiter is specific on the skills the machine operator must possess. In addition, there may be needed for the applicant to have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree
in specific fields like engineering, business management, or any other specific fields.
In all this, most recruiters turn around to train the applicants on the specific skills they want regarding the job position. This includes work setting training, professional certification in bulldozers, forklifts, backhoes, or loaders. There is also the need for safety training through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
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How Much Does A Machine Operator Earn?
On average, a machine operator makes around $13.85 per hour. However, the rate of payment may be dependent on the geographical location, experience, and educational qualification of the machine operator.
Machine Operator Experience Requirements
For entry-level machine operator jobs, you may know nothing or just a little about the practical aspect of the position you are to occupy. However, it simply means that you may need to train under a skilled machine operator. You will need to pay attention to how to inspect, maintain and repair each piece of equipment.
For other entry-level machine operator jobs, you are expected to display a reasonable level of experience, although additional on-the-job training may be helpful for you to successfully become skilled in the job. Equally important, if you have years of experience, you may be qualified for the role of leadership and help in training the junior staff.
Career Path For Machine Operators
Since there are various industries that a machine operator can work, there are also many paths that they can take. If you are with entry to intermediate level experience in a production company, you may find yourself as a quality assurance manager. This position requires high responsibility and you would be in charge of operating and handling the machines to help in the
production line.
Equally, you can get a job in small, private office machines, or in a large construction company. You may be required to work with extruding and drawing machines, construction and moving machines, drilling and boring machines, welding, soldering, and brazing machines and digging and excavating machines.
References
- monster.co.uk – Machine Operator Job Description Sample
- betterteam.com – Machine Operator Job Description
- glassdoor.com – Machine Operator Job Description
- indeed.com – Machine Operator Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications
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