Machine Operator Job Description — 2025 Guide & Templates

If you’re writing or updating a machine operator job description, this guide gives you everything you need. You get clear duties, compliant wording, and ready-to-copy templates.

We reference OSHA 1910 safety expectations, industry standards, and current pay data sources (BLS/ONS). Post confidently and hire faster.

What does a Machine Operator do?

A Machine Operator sets up, runs, and monitors production machinery to meet safety, quality, and output targets. They load materials, verify measurements, perform routine inspections, and document results while following standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety rules.

In machine operator job descriptions and duties, employers typically highlight production, quality checks, basic maintenance, and compliance (e.g., OSHA/LOTO, PPE). Use the overview below to align your posting to standards and give candidates a clear, accurate picture of the role.

Core Duties and Responsibilities

Your goal is to define day-to-day work in plain language tied to safety and quality standards (OSHA 1910, ISO 9001/13485, GMP/HACCP where applicable). Clear duties help candidates self-qualify.

They also give supervisors measurable expectations they can coach against and assess consistently.

Use the sub-sections below to tailor to your machines and industry. Then mirror the phrasing in your job posting.

Keep each bullet action-driven and outcome-focused. This supports accountability and clean handoffs across shifts.

Production & Operation

A strong manufacturing machine operator job description starts with how the operator runs equipment safely and efficiently. Define the machines, materials, and the outputs expected per shift to anchor performance.

Add examples like cycle counts and line speed to make the role concrete. Then link operation tasks to the quality and documentation sections so the workflow is clear.

Start up, operate, and monitor assigned machines to meet daily production targets
Load/unload raw materials and components; verify part counts and correct lot numbers
Track cycle counts, throughput, and uptime; respond to alarms/alerts
Adjust basic parameters within defined limits (speed, feed, temperature, tension)
Perform visual checks for defects; pull samples at defined intervals
Coordinate with leads/maintenance to minimize changeover and downtime delays
Keep work area clean and organized to 5S standards

Setup & Changeover

Setup clarity reduces scrap and delays. Call out tools, fixtures, offsets, and first-article approval so operators know exactly what “good” looks like.

Note who approves the first piece and where the SOP/work instruction lives to eliminate guesswork. The more specific your setup expectations, the faster you can achieve repeatable quality and shorter changeovers.

Read work orders, prints, and setup sheets; stage tools, fixtures, and materials
Perform changeovers per SOP; select and install tooling/fixtures safely
Enter or adjust offsets and parameters per approved setup sheet
Run and submit first-article piece for QA/lead approval before full run
Document setup data and deviations; return tools to proper storage
Reduce changeover time by prepping kits and following SMED/lean practices

Quality Control

Quality expectations belong in every machine operator responsibilities section. Tie checks to measurement tools and tolerances, and define containment steps for nonconforming parts.

Specify when to record data, how to label product, and when to stop and escalate. This makes quality visible and supports ISO/regulated audits.

Inspect parts using calipers, micrometers, height gauges, pin gauges, go/no-go gauges
Read basic drawings; verify dimensions, tolerances, and surface/cosmetic standards
Record results in check sheets or HMI; maintain lot traceability
Isolate and tag nonconforming product; notify lead/QA immediately
Support first-pass yield (FPY) targets; stop and escalate recurring defects
Follow control plans, SPC checks, and sample frequencies as assigned

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Define the boundary between operator care and technician-level repairs. Reference PM checklists and escalation paths to protect MTBF/MTTR targets and keep uptime high.

Clarify what faults operators can reset and when to call maintenance. This ensures safe responses and prevents repeat issues.

Perform daily/weekly operator care: cleaning, lubrication, fluid checks, filter changes
Identify unusual noises, vibration, temperature, or wear; correct within scope or escalate
Replace consumables (blades, inserts, nozzles) as authorized
Reset basic faults and clear jams safely; document root-cause notes when applicable
Submit maintenance tickets/work orders; support planned PMs and startups

Safety & Compliance

OSHA safety responsibilities for machine operators must be explicit in your JD. Reference LOTO at the awareness level for operators and specify PPE by task or area to remove ambiguity.

Reinforce machine guarding, chemical handling per SDS, and housekeeping expectations. Tie these requirements to your incident reporting and audit process.

Follow OSHA 29 CFR 1910 and site safety rules; wear required PPE (safety glasses, gloves, hearing, steel-toe footwear, etc.)
Use machine guards and interlocks; never bypass safety devices
Apply LOTO awareness: de-energize and call authorized personnel for servicing/clearing where required
Handle chemicals per SDS; maintain housekeeping and clear aisles/exits
For food/GMP environments: follow hygiene, allergen control, and sanitation procedures (HACCP/FSMA)
Report near-misses/incidents immediately; participate in safety talks and audits

Documentation & Reporting

Good documentation supports ISO 9001/13485 and regulatory compliance. State the systems used (HMI, MES, ERP) and the records expected per shift so operators know what “complete” looks like.

Define when entries occur (real time vs end of shift) to protect traceability. Accurate records protect the business during audits and enable data-driven improvement.

Read and follow work instructions/SOPs and control plans
Complete production logs, downtime codes, scrap tags, and shift reports
Enter HMI/MES data accurately (counts, rejects, changeovers, lot numbers)
Maintain device history records/travelers where applicable
Support audits with complete, legible, real-time paperwork

Material Handling & Inventory

Clarify licenses (e.g., forklift) if required. Link material accuracy to quality and traceability so operators see why it matters.

Reinforce ERP/MES scans and FIFO/FEFO practices to prevent mix-ups. Clear expectations reduce lineouts and rework.

Stage materials and components; verify part numbers and quantities
Scan/record inventory movements; perform basic ERP/MES transactions
Practice FIFO/FEFO; maintain lot/batch integrity
Safely move pallets/totes with pallet jack or forklift (if certified)
Minimize line shortages by communicating low stock proactively

Teamwork & Communication

This section shows how work connects across shifts and functions. It also supports continuous improvement by encouraging operators to surface issues and ideas quickly.

Define handoff expectations and who to collaborate with on quality or downtime. Strong communication reduces variability and speeds problem-solving.

Participate in shift handoffs; communicate machine status, quality issues, and priorities
Collaborate with QA, maintenance, and supervisors to resolve issues
Share improvement ideas; support kaizen/5S activities
Cross-train on additional machines as business needs require
Mentor new hires on safety, quality, and SOP adherence

Work Environment, Shifts, and Physical Demands

Set realistic expectations around schedules, conditions, and physical work so candidates self-select in. Most facilities run 1st/2nd/3rd shifts and may include 10–12 hour schedules with regular overtime.

Use ADA-compliant language to keep your machine operator job description inclusive. Note temperature, noise, and PPE norms. Clarify any union environment or bid process.

Clear details reduce renegotiation after offer and support fair, consistent hiring.

Typical shifts: 1st (days), 2nd (afternoons/evenings), 3rd (overnights); weekend or rotating shifts possible
Overtime may be required during peak demand or for coverage
Work near moving machinery with moderate to high noise; PPE provided/required
Physical demands (ADA sample): “Regularly required to stand; walk; reach; handle parts up to X lbs. with or without reasonable accommodation”
Ability to lift/push/pull X lbs. frequently and Y lbs. occasionally; use of hoists/carts encouraged

Skills and Qualifications

State what’s required versus preferred to widen your candidate pool and improve diversity. Tie technical skills to your machines, measurement needs, and software tools so applicants can self-assess quickly.

Add culture and soft skills that align with safety and quality to reinforce expectations. Be precise, and avoid unnecessary barriers.

Technical Skills

Read basic blueprints and work instructions
Use measurement tools: calipers, micrometers, tape measures, scales, height gauges
Basic math: decimals, fractions, conversions; understanding of tolerances
HMI basics; enter offsets/parameters within defined limits (CNC where applicable)
Understand SOPs, control plans, and sample frequency
Basic troubleshooting of feeds/speeds, jams, and sensor faults
Familiar with 5S, lean/kaizen concepts

Soft Skills

Attention to detail and quality mindset
Clear communication and shift handoff notes
Reliability, time management, and meeting takt/output targets
Teamwork and willingness to cross-train
Problem-solving under time pressure while maintaining safety
Accountability for documentation and following procedures

Certifications

OSHA 10 (General Industry) preferred; OSHA 30 for leads/supervisors
Forklift certification if material handling is required
NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) Level 1 for CNC/measurement-focused roles
GMP/HACCP or food safety training for food manufacturing
First aid/CPR, LOTO awareness training where applicable

Education, Training, and Entry Paths

Most production machine operator job descriptions accept a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training. Community college programs, apprenticeships, and industry credentials can accelerate progression and pay.

Clarify how you train (shadowing, skills matrix) and the typical timeline to independent operation. List preferred but not required credentials to avoid unnecessarily narrowing the pool.

US vs UK Notes

In the US, employers often hire entry-level operators and upskill through structured OJT. Optional credentials include NIMS, OSHA 10, and forklift licenses.

In the UK, apprenticeships and NVQ/SVQ pathways are common, and job titles may include “Process Operator” or “Production Operative.” UK postings frequently reference shift premiums and right-to-work checks. US postings often reference E-Verify and background/drug screens.

Experience Levels and Career Progression

Define scope by level to improve internal equity and career clarity. Entry operators focus on safe running and basic inspection. Senior/lead operators handle setups, complex changeovers, and mentoring.

Clear ladders also reduce turnover by showing growth and linking skills to pay. Use the tiered examples below to write consistent machine operator job descriptions across levels.

Entry-level: Run machines, visual checks, basic measurements, simple adjustments, escalate issues
Intermediate: Perform setups/changeovers, adjust offsets, contain defects, complete documentation independently
Senior/Lead: Approve first articles, train others, troubleshoot complex issues, improve changeover times, own KPIs for a cell/line
Progression: Machine Operator → Senior/Lead Operator → Machinist (deeper CNC/precision) or Maintenance Technician (electro-mechanical) → Supervisor/Cell Lead

Equipment and Industry Variations (Tailor Your JD)

Machine operator duties and responsibilities vary by machine type and sector. Use the variants below to tailor your posting and capture the right talent while referencing sector standards (ISO 13485 for medical devices, HACCP/GMP for food).

Aligning language to your equipment improves candidate match rates and speeds hiring.

CNC Machine Operator

Load and secure workpieces; select tools and verify tool length/wear
Enter/adjust tool/work offsets; basic G/M-code familiarity for edits within limits
Run first-article and submit for QA approval; hold tolerances per print
Monitor tool wear, coolant levels, and surface finish; change inserts as authorized
Use micrometers, bore gauges, height gauges, CMM support as required

Injection Molding Operator

Load and dry resin; verify material handling, colorant, and lot traceability
Support mold changeovers; ensure proper ejection and part handling
Monitor temperatures, pressures, cycle time; trim gates/runners safely
Perform cosmetic checks (sink, splay, flash, short shots); contain defects
Follow 5S and housekeeping; support purging and shutdown SOPs

Press Brake/Metal Fabrication Operator

Read bend diagrams; select dies/punches; account for bend allowance/springback
Set backgauge; perform trial bends and verify angles/dimensions
Handle sharp edges safely; deburr as needed
Inspect edge quality and flatness; protect surface finishes
Maintain tooling and follow lockout/tagout for safe setup

Packaging/Printing Line Operator

Set registration, line speed, and tension; verify date codes/labels
Conduct packaging QA: seal integrity, weights, counts, and lot codes
Perform rapid changeovers between SKUs; minimize waste during startup
Follow GMP sanitation; document clean-in-place/changeover cleaning
Track downtime reasons; maintain steady flow to downstream processes

KPIs and Performance Metrics

Listing KPIs clarifies expectations and supports fair evaluations. Choose metrics that align with your machines and quality system.

Include realistic ranges or targets for your environment. Even at entry level, operators should understand how their actions affect output, scrap, and downtime.

Use the common metrics below in your machine operator job description to connect daily work to results.

Common Metrics

OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness): availability × performance × quality; many plants target 60–85% depending on complexity
Cycle time and throughput: actual vs standard; watch for creeping increases
First-Pass Yield (FPY): target high 90s for mature processes; lower during new product ramp
Scrap/reject rate: define acceptable ppm or percentage by product; contain and analyze
Changeover time: trend toward SMED/lean goals; reduce variability between shifts
Unplanned downtime: minutes per shift; escalate recurring stoppages promptly
Safety: near-miss reporting, PPE compliance, zero recordables goal

Note: Targets vary by industry. Precision CNC may prioritize FPY/scrap; high-speed packaging may prioritize uptime and changeover time.

Salary and Pay Factors

Pay depends on machine complexity, region, shift, and credentials. Use public data to benchmark, then adjust for local demand and union contracts where applicable.

Include shift differentials to reduce renegotiations after offer. Document factors you’ll weigh in offers. Transparent ranges improve candidate trust and acceptance rates.

US/UK Examples and Sources

United States: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, wages vary across relevant occupations (e.g., Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators; Metal and Plastic Machine Workers). Typical posted ranges in 2024–2025: approximately $17–$26 per hour for general operators, $22–$30+ for experienced CNC operators, higher in high-cost metros. State OEWS data shows meaningful variance by region and industry.
United Kingdom: ONS data for “Process, Plant and Machine Operatives” shows broad ranges by region/sector. Typical posted ranges: roughly £11–£17 per hour for general operators and £14–£22 for CNC/precision roles, with London/South East at the higher end.
Shift differential: commonly 5–15% for 2nd shift, 10–20% for 3rd; weekend premiums and overtime (time-and-a-half) are common.
Factors: union vs non-union, industry (medical device/aerospace often pay more), machine complexity, credentials (NIMS, forklift), and verified experience.

Always cite BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (US) or ONS ASHE/occupation profiles (UK) in your internal comp analysis.

Machine Operator Job Description Template (Copy & Customize)

Use this machine operator job description template to post quickly. Replace bracketed items with your details and add machine-specific bullets from the variants above.

Responsibilities

Operate [machine/equipment] safely to meet daily production goals
Perform setups/changeovers per SOP; obtain first-article approval before full run
Monitor cycle counts, line speed, and product quality; adjust basic parameters as authorized
Inspect parts using calipers/micrometers and visual standards; record results
Identify and contain nonconforming product; escalate per control plan
Complete production logs, downtime codes, and HMI/MES data entries accurately
Perform operator care (cleaning, lubrication, basic PMs); submit maintenance tickets
Follow OSHA 1910 safety rules, PPE requirements, and LOTO awareness procedures
Handle materials, kitting, and lot traceability; practice FIFO
Maintain 5S/housekeeping and support continuous improvement activities
Communicate status at shift handoff; collaborate with QA and maintenance
Cross-train on additional machines as business needs require

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent; technical coursework a plus
Ability to read work instructions and basic blueprints
Measurement proficiency with calipers/micrometers; basic math (fractions/decimals)
HMI/CNC basics; ability to enter offsets/parameters within defined limits (if applicable)
Strong attention to detail, reliability, and safety mindset
Certifications preferred: OSHA 10, forklift; NIMS Level 1 for CNC roles
Physical demands: regularly stand, walk, and handle parts up to [X] lbs., with or without reasonable accommodation
Willing to work [1st/2nd/3rd] shift, overtime, and weekends as needed
Ability to follow SOPs and maintain accurate documentation

5 Mini-Templates by Machine/Industry

Use these quick-start variants to focus your posting on the right experience and standards. Pair them with the core responsibilities above.

Food Manufacturing (GMP/HACCP)

Follow GMP hygiene, allergen control, and sanitation procedures; document per HACCP plan
Verify weights, labels, lot codes, and seal integrity at defined intervals
Execute clean-in-place and changeover sanitation; complete pre-op checks
Handle ingredients per FIFO; maintain temperature/time controls where applicable
Escalate foreign material or food safety risks immediately

CNC Shop

Load parts, set tools, and adjust tool/work offsets; basic G/M-code familiarity
Use micrometers, height gauges, and pin/bore gauges; hold print tolerances
Monitor tool wear, coolant, and chip load; change inserts per SOP
Submit first-article for QA; document deviations and corrective actions
Support 5S, tooling organization, and setup reduction

Fabrication/Press Brake

Select dies/punches; set backgauge and perform trial bends
Verify angles and dimensions; account for bend allowance/springback
Deburr safely; protect finishes with proper handling
Follow LOTO and pinch-point safety during setup and jams
Assist with material staging and scrap segregation

Packaging/Printing

Set registration, tension, and line speed; verify print quality and codes
Conduct in-process checks for seal, weight, and count; document results
Perform rapid SKU changeovers with minimal waste
Maintain sanitation and allergen changeover procedures if food/CPG
Record downtime reasons and support root-cause reduction

Warehouse-Integrated Operation

Stage materials to point of use; scan moves in ERP/MES
Operate forklift/pallet jack safely (if certified)
Maintain accurate counts, labels, and lot traceability
Replenish Kanban and kit components to schedule
Coordinate with shipping/receiving to prevent lineouts

Hiring Toolkit: Interview Questions and Hands-On Tests

Structure your process for fairness and signal quality. Combine behavioral questions with a short practical to validate measurement and documentation skills.

Keep safety first during any on-site test. Standardize scoring rubrics so candidates are compared on the same criteria.

Technical & Behavioral Questions

Tell me about a time you caught a quality issue before it left your area. What did you do next?
Walk me through your steps to set up or change over a machine you know well.
How do you decide when to adjust a parameter versus when to escalate to a lead or maintenance?
Describe your experience with calipers/micrometers and reading tolerances on a print.
What are the key elements of safe operation around guards, interlocks, and LOTO?
When a machine is behind schedule, how do you balance speed, quality, and safety?
Share an example of a process improvement you contributed to (5S, changeover time, scrap reduction).

Practical Assessment Ideas

Blueprint reading drill: identify three critical dimensions and tolerances; explain acceptance criteria
Measurement test: measure a sample part with calipers/micrometer and record results on a check sheet
Mock setup steps: candidate explains safe sequence for a basic changeover and first-article approval
Fault response: present a common alarm or defect photo; candidate outlines safe troubleshooting and escalation
Documentation: complete a sample production log with lot numbers, counts, and reject reasons

Onboarding: 30-60-90 Day Plan

A structured ramp lowers scrap and safety risk while building confidence. Assign a trainer, use a skills matrix, and set weekly check-ins to track progress against defined outputs and quality.

The plan below aligns to common manufacturing onboarding milestones.

Days 1–30: Safety and basics

Complete orientation, PPE fit, OSHA/LOTO awareness, and area-specific safety training
Shadow on primary machine; learn SOPs, checks, and documentation
Demonstrate measurement proficiency and basic operation with supervision

Days 31–60: Independence on primary machine

Run full shifts under light supervision; meet output and quality targets
Perform basic setups/changeovers; submit first-article correctly
Close simple downtime gaps; participate in 5S/kaizen

Days 61–90: Cross-training and ownership

Cross-train on a second machine or process
Own daily operator care/PM tasks and accurate reporting
Propose one improvement (scrap, changeover, housekeeping) and implement with team

Machine Operator vs. Machinist vs. Production Operator

Machine Operator: Runs defined equipment to SOP; performs basic setups, inspections, and documentation; adjusts parameters within limits and escalates complex issues.
Machinist: Deeper technical scope—programming/editing CNC code, complex setups, fixturing, precision measurement, and problem-solving to tight tolerances; often higher pay.
Production Operator/Assembler: May rotate across lines/stations with more manual assembly/packaging and less equipment-specific setup; quality and documentation still critical.

Use the title that matches scope to avoid mis-hiring and pay compression.

JD Compliance Checklist (ADA, Safety, Non-Discrimination)

Use this checklist to keep your machine operator job description compliant and consistent with OSHA 1910 and ADA guidance. Clear, neutral language helps you widen the pool and standardize evaluations across candidates.

Include an equal opportunity statement; avoid gendered language and unnecessary barriers (e.g., degree requirements where not essential)
Safety: reference OSHA 1910, PPE, machine guarding, and LOTO awareness; specify that authorized LOTO is performed by trained personnel
ADA: use function-based, neutral wording such as “with or without reasonable accommodation”
Physical demands: define frequencies and weights (e.g., “frequently lift up to X lbs.”); mention use of assists/hoists
Essential functions: clearly identify core duties to support accommodations and consistent evaluations
Background/drug screens: if applicable, reference consistently and lawfully; note union rules if relevant
Data and privacy: align with regional requirements (e.g., GDPR/UK data notices for applicants)

FAQs

Do machine operators need a degree? No. Most roles require a high school diploma or equivalent plus on-the-job training; technical coursework helps.
What shifts are common? 1st/2nd/3rd shifts are standard; many plants offer weekend crews and overtime.
What PPE is required? Typically safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety shoes; gloves and other PPE vary by task and material.
What KPIs matter most? OEE, throughput vs standard, FPY, scrap rate, changeover time, downtime, and safety performance.
Do operators need certification? Not always; OSHA 10, forklift, and NIMS Level 1 can improve hiring outcomes and pay.
Who do operators report to? Usually a shift supervisor or production lead, with dotted-line collaboration to QA and maintenance.
What does a day look like? Pre-shift safety check, startup, first-article approval, hourly checks, documentation, changeovers, and end-of-shift handoff.
How do I advance? Build measurement/setup skill, earn credentials (NIMS, OSHA 10), cross-train, and volunteer for mentoring/lead tasks.

Sources and Standards Referenced

OSHA 29 CFR 1910 (General Industry), including 1910.147 (Lockout/Tagout), 1910 Subpart O (Machinery and Machine Guarding), and 1910.132 (PPE)
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for CNC Tool Operators and Metal/Plastic Machine Workers
UK Office for National Statistics (ONS) pay data for Process, Plant and Machine Operatives (ASHE)
ISO 9001 (Quality Management Systems) and ISO 13485 (Medical Devices Quality) for documentation/traceability
HACCP and GMP for food manufacturing safety and sanitation control
NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) credentials for CNC/measurement competency