How To Become A Handle Machine Operator: What It Is and Career Path

What is a handle machine operator and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

The primary function of a handle machine operator is to operate production machines. He/She performs preventive maintenance on the machines regularly and ensures optimal performance to prevent delays in orders or project deliverables. Besides that, he/she assists with the installation of machines. Handle machine operators analyze schematics and blueprints, and inspect components for inconsistencies. They replace defective parts and upgrade systems as needed for higher operational efficiency. Furthermore, they keep records of operations for reference. Additionally, they manage maintenance standards to prevent downtimes and also perform periodic tests and repairs.

Employers seek candidates with a high school diploma or its equivalent. You must have years of relevant work experience. You must possess maths, mechanical, attention to detail, problem-solving, and communication skills. Also, you must be familiar with relevant safety rules and regulations. Handle machine operators earn an average salary of $25,959 per year or $12.48 per hour. It varies between $21,000 and $30,000.

ScoreHandle Machine OperatorUS Average

Salary

2.3

Avg. Salary $29,598

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level

4.4

Growth Rate 7%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity

8.9

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 1.21%

Asian 7.11%

Black or African American 12.05%

Hispanic or Latino 15.84%

Unknown 3.41%

White 60.38%

Gender

female 20.45%

male 79.55%

Age - 46

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 46

Stress Level

4.4

Stress level is moderate

7.1 - high

Complexity Level

5.6

Complexity Level is intermediate

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance

6.8

Work Life balance is good

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a handle machine operator

Explore handle machine operator education requirements

Most common handle machine operator degrees

High School Diploma

56.9 %

Diploma

16.2 %

Associate

12.7 %

Start to develop specific handle machine operator skills

Skills	Percentages
Forklifts	13.14%
Cranes	12.98%
Production Lines	12.72%
Safety Procedures	9.53%
Customer Orders	8.28%

Complete relevant handle machine operator training and internships

Accountants spend an average of Less than 1 month on post-employment, on-the-job training. New handle machine operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a handle machine operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real handle machine operator resumes.

Research handle machine operator duties and responsibilities

Operate CNC to manufacture table tops, end tables, desks, and other products.
Produce machined parts by programming, setting up and operation a computer numerical control CNC machine.
Document lens specifications according to FDA regulations.
Record statistics on ISO documentation, and coordinate with machine technicians and electrical technicians to keep machines operating at maximum efficiency.

Prepare your handle machine operator resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your handle machine operator resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a handle machine operator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

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