Machine Operator Assistant

Job Title: Machine Operator Assistant
Job Description

This role supports light equipment and production machinery operations in a paper processing and manufacturing facility. The Machine Operator Assistant helps set up and operate equipment, monitors production quality, and ensures materials are handled safely and efficiently according to specifications. The position focuses on maintaining consistent machine performance, assisting with troubleshooting, and keeping accurate records of production activities.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate production machinery according to job specifications and established procedures.
• Read and interpret tape measures, copy folders, and other setup documentation to ensure accurate machine settings.
• Operate unwind equipment and related systems to prepare, feed, and replace materials as needed during production.
• Inspect and monitor print quality, perforations, registration lines, and materials to ensure products meet quality standards.
• Maintain accurate records of roll weights, material usage, and production activity throughout each shift.
• Perform basic machine adjustments, clear jams, and assist with routine machine maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Pull jams and restart lines to maintain continuous production flow.
• Load materials into machines using a forklift or manual pallet jack, ensuring proper handling and placement.
• Assist the Machine Operator II in keeping machines loaded, running, and producing according to schedule.
• Handle production materials properly and record all usage accurately in line with company procedures.
• Use basic hand tools and power tools to support machine setup, adjustments, and minor repairs.
• Communicate promptly with supervisors or maintenance personnel regarding equipment malfunctions or quality concerns.
• Complete production and quality documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
• Follow all company safety procedures and maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Support general production tasks as needed to meet daily and weekly output goals.

Essential Skills

• At least 6 months of machine operating experience in a production or manufacturing environment.
• Ability to pull jams and restart production lines safely and efficiently.
• Basic troubleshooting knowledge for production machinery and related equipment.
• Ability to load materials into machines using a forklift or manual pallet jack.
• Proficiency using a tape measure for accurate setup and verification of specifications.
• Ability to consistently lift 50+ pounds throughout the shift.
• Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with machine operation in a paper mills or paper processing environment.
• Knowledge of basic hand tools and power tools for machine setup and minor adjustments.
• Ability to read and write English to follow instructions, complete documentation, and communicate effectively.
• Basic math skills to support measurements, counts, and production reporting.
• Willingness and ability to work on either 1st or 2nd shift as assigned.
• Commitment to following safety procedures and using required personal protective equipment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in paper processing, paper mills, or similar manufacturing environments.
• Previous experience with pallet jacks and palletizing finished products.
• Experience with machine setup and light equipment operation.
• Comfort working in a loud production environment with continuous machine operation.
• Strong attention to detail for monitoring print quality, registration lines, and perforations.
• Ability to maintain accurate records of roll weights, material usage, and production activities.
• Dependable work habits and the ability to support general production tasks as needed.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from a comprehensive and supportive total rewards package that promotes long-term stability and well-being. Team members receive two weeks of paid vacation starting on day one, providing immediate work-life balance. Once full-time, employees gain access to a full suite of benefits, including health, dental, and vision coverage, HSA and FSA options, disability benefits, an Employee Assistance Program, and a 401(k) plan to support their financial future. The facility also offers a dedicated break room to help employees rest and recharge during their shifts.

Work Environment

This position is based in a paper processing and manufacturing facility with a very loud production floor and continuous machine operation. The role follows a multi-shift schedule, with openings on 1st shift (7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) and 2nd shift (3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.). Work involves regular use of production machinery, unwind equipment, forklifts, manual pallet jacks, and various hand and power tools. Employees work in a fast-paced environment where safety and organization are critical. Ear plugs and steel toe or composite safety shoes are required at all times on the production floor. A break room is available for use during scheduled breaks.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Covington, TN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $17.15 - $17.75/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Covington,TN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 29, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.