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about machine operator jobs

Machine operators are skilled manufacturing professionals with a diverse skill set. While your title is machine operator, you may be referred to as a machinist or die maker, because you work with heavy machinery doing everything from setup to operation and maintenance. You may work on different machines, or you might specialize in one piece of equipment.

The equipment you work with might be computerized or it may be mechanical. You’re responsible for making sure your equipment is set up properly, running efficiently and meeting production standards. You produce quality products in a timely, budget-conscious way. You need to be well versed as a builder, fabricator, and mechanic.

what machine operator jobs entail

Machine operators work in a manufacturing or warehouse setting. The work is physically intensive and can be unpredictable. Your shifts are often determined by machine performance and issues. In most cases, workers are on a revolving shift schedule that rotates between day, evening, and night shifts. Weekend work and overtime are also common. Machine operators tend to report to a shift foreman, operations manager, or production manager.

average machine operator salaries

Machine operator salaries start at just under $16 per hour, or $32,000 annually, and can reach $25 per hour, or $50,000 per year. The average hourly rate is approximately $22 per hour. How much you will make will depend on your experience level and responsibilities.

You have the opportunity to increase your salary. Similar to other manufacturing careers, you can increase your rate and overall salary by working overtime. Overtime availability will vary based on company needs, and may fluctuate throughout the year.

salaries across canada

toronto machine operator salary

$16.80 to $24.10 per hour
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vancouver machine operator salary

$17.20 to $24.50 per hour
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montreal machine operator salary

$15.90 to $22.80 per hour
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calgary machine operator salary

$17.20 to $24.80 per hour
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your day to day tasks

You’re generally employed in the manufacturing industry. Each part of the manufacturing process involves machinery that is operated, monitored and maintained by a machine operator. The kind of equipment you operate will depend on the company you work for. Your tasks may include:

preparing and testing machinery
inputting technical data
manually loading parts, if the line isn’t fully automated
monitoring machinery while it’s running
ensuring products meet specifications
cleaning and recalibrating machinery
filling out production reports
maintaining an activity log
troubleshooting issues as they arise

where you can work

Machine operators work in manufacturing and production. You can work for companies of all sizes. Whether it’s a small business with a small product line or a large manufacturer of consumer goods, your skills are required to ensure all machinery is maintained and working efficiently. Opportunities for machine operators exist across Canada, but particularly in larger manufacturing areas such as Alberta and southwestern Ontario.

machine operator jobs in canada

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what you bring to the table

Having a strong understanding of how machinery operates, common issues that arise, and a strong work ethic are important. To excel as a successful machine iperator, you need:

manual dexterity
an ability to learn quickly
good eyesight and physical health
strong math and analytical skills
ability to think outside the box
computer skills and an understanding of automation and manufacturing

training and certifications

A high school diploma is required by most companies, along with basic mathematics and good communication skills. Employers generally provide on-the-job training, so the ability to pay attention and learn quickly will help you ramp up with confidence. You can give your career a jump start by taking a college diploma program, apprenticeship program, and acquiring certification.

where your career is headed

Your employment opportunities are tied to the performance of the industry that employs you. Technical advances mean your employability is directly tied to your ability to stay ahead of technology. The more you broaden your skills, the greater your chances for employment stability and growth in an ever-changing manufacturing industry.

As you gain experience in the field, you can move into supervisory roles such as production supervisor or manager. Many machine operators also opt to learn a skilled trade and specialize.

latest machine operator jobs available

Forklift Operator: Narrow Aisle Reach Truck Calgary

2019-02-19 Calgary, Alberta Temporary

Randstad Calgary North is hiring for Forklift Operator. We are currently hiring for a Narrow Aisle Reach truck forklift operator with certified external license. We are looking for applicant that have operate the machine from 6 months to a 1 year in a warehouse environment or distribution centre. ...

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cnc operator / programmer Woodbridge

2019-02-19 Woodbridge, Ontario Permanent $ 22.00 - $ 24.00 per hour

We are currently hiring a cnc operator and/or cnc programmer for a position in Woodbridge. The ideal candidate will be available to work on an afternoon shift, and have at least 4 years of experience operating a HAAS horizontal machining center. This position is for a company that does custom work ...

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