What does a handle machine operator do?
A handle machine operator is responsible for operating production machines, conducting preventive maintenance, and ensuring optimal performance to prevent delays in orders or project deliverables. Handle machine operators analyze schematics and blueprints, inspect components for inconsistencies, replace defective parts, and upgrade systems as needed for higher operational efficiency. They also create resolution records for reference and manage maintenance standards to prevent downtimes. A handle machine operator must have excellent mechanical skills, especially on identifying machine problems and following specifications.
Handle machine operator responsibilities
Here are examples of responsibilities from real handle machine operator resumes:
- 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.
- Overlook daily operations of single/twin screw extruders and packaging of finish product.
Handle machine operator skills and personality traits
We calculated that 13% of Handle Machine Operators are proficient in Forklifts, Cranes, and Production Lines. They’re also known for soft skills such as Communication skills, Coordination, and Visual ability.
We break down the percentage of Handle Machine Operators that have these skills listed on their resume here:
- Forklifts, 13%
Operated various machines/equipment From cranes to forklifts
- Cranes, 13%
Secured lifting attachments to materials and conveyed load to destination, using hand-operated crane or hoist.
- Production Lines, 13%
Supply necessary raw material and components to the production lines in a large pharmaceutical manufacturing facility.
- Safety Procedures, 10%
Follow safety procedures and regulations disposing of materials.
- Customer Orders, 8%
Uploaded product deliveries, staged products based on customer orders and assisted with organizing and maintaining existing inventory.
- Electric Pallet Jack, 6%
Operated various material handling equipment including electric pallet jack and tow- motor.
"forklifts," "cranes," and "production lines" are among the most common skills that handle machine operators use at work. You can find even more handle machine operator responsibilities below, including:
Communication skills. To carry out their duties, the most important skill for a handle machine operator to have is communication skills. Their role and responsibilities require that "material moving machine operators signal and direct workers to load and unload material." Handle machine operators often use communication skills in their day-to-day job, as shown by this real resume: "job required a variety of skills including general math and communication with management. "
Coordination. Another essential skill to perform handle machine operator duties is coordination. Handle machine operators responsibilities require that "material moving machine operators must have steady hands and feet to guide and control heavy machinery precisely." Handle machine operators also use coordination in their role according to a real resume snippet: "operated production machinery utilized good communication skill to interact well with co-workers possess good hand-eye coordination ability to perform repetitive tasks"
Visual ability. This is an important skill for handle machine operators to perform their duties. For an example of how handle machine operator responsibilities depend on this skill, consider that "material moving machine operators must be able to see clearly where they are driving or what they are moving." This excerpt from a resume also shows how vital it is to everyday roles and responsibilities of a handle machine operator: "conducted visual inspection of finished and goods in production to ensure that quality standards are met. ".
The three companies that hire the most handle machine operators are:
- Alro Steel23 handle machine operators jobs
- JPMorgan Chase & Co.2 handle machine operators jobs
- Allina Health2 handle machine operators jobs
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Compare different handle machine operators
Handle machine operator vs. Production operator
A production operator is responsible for handling and monitoring manufacturing machines in a factory or similar establishment, ensuring that everything is running smoothly and according to schedule. Aside from assisting with the processing and packaging of goods, a production operator must also conduct necessary inspections to the machine or equipment that they are using to make sure that it is in good condition and is safe to use. Should there be any issues or concerns regarding safety, it is essential to notify a supervisor right away.
While similarities exist, there are also some differences between handle machine operators and production operator. For instance, handle machine operator responsibilities require skills such as "forklifts," "cranes," "electric pallet jack," and "load trucks." Whereas a production operator is skilled in "basic math," "math," "quality checks," and "hand tools." This is part of what separates the two careers.
Production operators really shine in the manufacturing industry with an average salary of $37,865. Comparatively, handle machine operators tend to make the most money in the manufacturing industry with an average salary of $34,314.On average, production operators reach similar levels of education than handle machine operators. Production operators are 1.3% more likely to earn a Master's Degree and 0.1% more likely to graduate with a Doctoral Degree.Handle machine operator vs. Pack out operator
A pack out operator is a manufacturing or packaging operation employee responsible for the final packaging of goods prior to shipping. Pack out operators come in at the last stage of the manufacturing process to ensure readiness. You will primarily work with machines and ensure that the right packaging standards and procedures are adhered to. The pack out operator oversees package labeling, branding, weighing, inspection and verification, and palletizing.
In addition to the difference in salary, there are some other key differences worth noting. For example, handle machine operator responsibilities are more likely to require skills like "forklifts," "cranes," "electric pallet jack," and "cnc." Meanwhile, a pack out operator has duties that require skills in areas such as "pallets," "pallet jack," "basic math," and "quality checks." These differences highlight just how different the day-to-day in each role looks.
On average, pack out operators earn a higher salary than handle machine operators. Some industries support higher salaries in each profession. Interestingly enough, pack out operators earn the most pay in the finance industry with an average salary of $34,955. Whereas handle machine operators have higher pay in the manufacturing industry, with an average salary of $34,314.pack out operators earn similar levels of education than handle machine operators in general. They're 0.1% more likely to graduate with a Master's Degree and 0.1% more likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.Handle machine operator vs. Forklift operator
Forklift operators are skilled workers responsible for operating heavy equipment machines called forklifts. They are in charge of operating forklifts, a type of industrial or heavy equipment truck/machine that moves materials from one place to another through prongs protruding from the machine. Forklift operators are responsible for loading and unloading cargo, operating the machine to ensure that the cargo reaches its destination, and complying with safety protocols. They are also in-charge of maintenance work on the machine and reporting any challenges or issues that may be encountered. Forklift operators must be physically fit and alert at all times.
Some important key differences between the two careers include a few of the skills necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of each. Some examples from handle machine operator resumes include skills like "forklifts," "cranes," "cnc," and "machine operation," whereas a forklift operator is more likely to list skills in "pallets," "basic math," "osha," and "sit-down forklift. "
Forklift operators earn the highest salary when working in the automotive industry, where they receive an average salary of $37,519. Comparatively, handle machine operators have the highest earning potential in the manufacturing industry, with an average salary of $34,314.Most forklift operators achieve a similar degree level compared to handle machine operators. For example, they're 0.0% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree, and 0.0% less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.Handle machine operator vs. Cell operator
A Cell Operator is someone who handles a production cell in a company or factory. This position ensures that a cell unit of the production functions properly and efficiently. The position also does other miscellaneous tasks related to production, such as inspection, sorting, and other assembly operations, depending on the type of company, business, or manufactured product. This person generally has strong organizational and problem-solving skills and has a knack for troubleshooting.
Types of handle machine operator
Updated January 8, 2025
