Overview of the Machine Operator Role
A Machine Operator uses their technical knowledge of machinery, problem-solving and safety skills to set up, operate, monitor and maintain industrial machinery in a manufacturing environment.
They must perform routine maintenance to reduce safety risks and production issues. To do this, they must have a good understanding of the machinery they use. They will also fix minor problems, such as worn parts or tighten loose connections.
A Machine Operator should always consider safety first, wearing the correct PPE and standing at a safe distance from any moving parts on the machinery. Performing these duties correctly will keep production running smoothly and help the Machine Operator gain the experience and skills they need to move into other manufacturing roles.
Dress Code
A Machine Operator should prioritise wearing practical and safe clothing, usually consisting of sturdy work pants, long-sleeve tops, closed-toe shoes and safety gear like gloves and hearing protection.
Machine Operator Duties
It is part of a Machine Operator’s duties to use their technical knowledge and maintenance skills to use different types of industrial machinery. They will maintain machinery to high safety standards, ensuring that the machines produce high-quality products.
Machine Operator Tips
A Machine Operator must be safety-conscious and always wear the appropriate PPE when using industrial machinery. It is important to inspect the machines before and after use and stay with the machine while it is operating.
It is also important to be able to problem-solve. Sometimes, issues might occur, and it is the Machine Operator’s job to identify the problem and devise a practical solution to fix it.
Skills of a Machine Operator
A proficient Machine Operator will have a good technical knowledge of industrial machinery including maintenance skills for keeping good safety standards when using the machines.
Technical Knowledge of Machinery
A Machine Operator must have a deep understanding of the machinery they operate, including its functions, controls, safety procedures, potential malfunctions and basic maintenance requirements.
Sometimes, problems with the machinery can occur, and it is important to know what to look for when performing checks on the machinery before performing maintenance. A Machine Operator must be knowledgeable to perform at maximum productivity, and it is crucial to learn about these industrial machines either through education, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training.
Safety Awareness
Staying safe is one of the most important parts of being a Machine Operator, as not paying attention, wearing the wrong protective gear, or leaving the machine unattended can cause serious injuries.
Give any task your full attention, and make sure you stay at a safe distance from the machinery’s moving parts. Don’t wear thin fabric or accessories that have the potential to get caught in the machinery, and be proactive when an issue occurs to turn off any involved machinery. These are just some of the basic safety awareness a Machine Operator should have.
Maintenance Skills
When operating machinery, it is important to read the operator’s manual to know what issues to look out for and prevent them before they can occur. Usually, this can be achieved with regular maintenance.
Perform routine maintenance before and after using any machinery by making sure the machine is clean, well lubricated, and has no worn or broken parts. Observe small details such as changes in how the machine sounds. Performing maintenance will keep production running smoothly and will contribute positively to the team.
Machine Operator Job Responsibilities
A Machine Operator must ensure that their machinery produces quality products and runs efficiently without breakdowns. They must also maintain the machines and troubleshoot any issues.
Operating Manufacturing Equipment
When operating the manufacturing equipment, you will need to make sure you are using the correct parts and materials that are high quality to prevent any faults from occurring with the product, as faulty items can also cause issues with the machinery.
Understand how the machinery works and how it is supposed to sound and track any problems. When operating moving parts, make sure to give the work your full attention and keep any hanging clothing or accessories away from the machine.
Ensuring Quality & Efficiency
To ensure quality and efficiency you should follow established operating procedures clearly. Perform regular quality checks on the products to make sure they are all up to standard and quickly identify and address potential issues.
Maintaining proper machine upkeep will optimise production speed while adhering to quality standards, and any problems should be communicated to relevant personnel, as an issue at your station could cause problems for others in the production line.
Maintenance & Troubleshooting
It is important to look after whatever machinery you use as a Machine Operator, as problems can cause stalls in production and sometimes injuries. Scheduled maintenance should be performed on time, this includes inspecting the machine for any damaged parts, lubricating moving parts to prevent friction and wear, and performing minor repairs when necessary.
Identify potential problems before they arise and report significant problems to the relevant team or staff to be dealt with properly. One issue can cause more problems down the line, so it is important to have good awareness.
Machine Operator Career Progression and Advancement
A Machine Operator can consider furthering their career by moving into a supervisor or team leader role or specialising in specific machinery.
Supervisor/Team Leader Roles
After gaining enough experience as a Machine Operator it is possible to move into higher roles such as a supervisor or team lead. Volunteer for more duties, including managing the production team and delegating tasks based on production needs. As a team lead it is important to monitor the performance of the team and provide feedback or coaching. Use strong communication skills to discuss how to improve production within the team.
As a Supervisor, it is important to track key performance indicators and generate reports on production performance. This role requires some analytical skills to identify trends and implement corrective actions if production falls behind.
Specialising in Specific Machinery
A specialist deals with complex machinery, and though the role utilises many of the skills learned as a Machine Operator, you will also need strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work as part of a wider team.
It is possible to move into this role with a good deal of machine operating experience and machine knowledge. Ask to learn how to use more advanced machinery while performing Machine Operator duties to gain a better understanding of complex machinery.
FAQs on Becoming a Machine Operator
Do You Need Formal Training to Be a Machine Operator?
Yes, it is important to have formal training when learning to become a Machine Operator. This is usually through education, apprenticeships or on-the-job training.
How Much Does a Machine Operator Get Paid?
The Average salary for a Machine Operator is around £25,000 per year, with entry-level positions averaging around £21,000 per year in the UK.
What Does a Machine Operator Do?
A Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring and maintaining industrial machinery, ensuring it runs safely and efficiently to produce high-quality products.
