Machine Operator Assistant
Job Description
This 3rd shift Production Worker / Machine Operator Assistant role supports the efficient operation of production machinery in a paper and cardboard manufacturing environment. You will load and unload materials, monitor equipment, inspect products for quality, and maintain a clean and safe work area. The position requires consistent lifting of 30-50 pounds throughout the shift and the ability to work in a fast-paced, hands-on production setting.
Responsibilities
Assist in the operation of production machinery by loading and unloading paper and cardboard materials.
Monitor machines during operation to ensure they run smoothly and safely.
Inspect materials and finished products for quality and report any defects or irregularities.
Perform general labor tasks such as assembly, packing, and packaging of products.
Operate and assist with machines such as gluing machines, folding machines, and folder gluers as directed.
Use hand tools and power tools safely to support production and mechanical assembly tasks.
Follow written and verbal instructions accurately to complete daily production assignments.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company standards.
Adhere to all safety procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Lift 30-50 pounds repeatedly and perform frequent bending and twisting throughout the shift.
Work independently or as part of a team to meet production goals and deadlines.
Support overtime needs by arriving early or working occasional Saturdays when required.
Essential Skills
Ability to consistently lift 30-50 pounds throughout the shift.
Ability to perform frequent bending and twisting in a production environment.
Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with production machinery.
Experience in machine operation or general production work.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
Comfort working in a manufacturing environment with paper and cardboard materials.
Ability to work 3rd shift hours (Monday-Thursday, 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.) with overtime as needed.
Attention to detail for inspecting materials and finished products.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience as a machine operator, machine operator assistant, or general production worker.
Background in packaging, paper, or cardboard production environments.
Experience with assembly, mechanical assembly, and general labor in a manufacturing setting.
Familiarity with gluing machines, folding machines, and folder gluer equipment.
Experience with packaging processes, including packing and inspection.
Comfort using hand tools and power tools in a production environment.
Why Work Here?
You will join a hands-on production team in a stable manufacturing environment, working with established processes and equipment. The role offers consistent 3rd shift hours with opportunities for overtime, allowing you to increase your earnings while building valuable experience in machine operation and packaging. You will receive all required PPE and clear safety guidelines, helping you work confidently and effectively on the production floor.
Work Environment
This role is based in a paper and cardboard production facility with a darker manufacturing environment. You will work on 3rd shift, Monday through Thursday from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., with overtime as needed, typically by starting earlier and occasionally working on Saturdays. The work involves continuous physical activity, including lifting 30-50 pounds, bending, and twisting throughout the shift. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and must be worn, including eye protection, hearing protection, closed-toed shoes, and a high-visibility vest. No jewelry is permitted, and no food, gum, or drinks are allowed on the production floor. Headphones are not allowed, but a shared speaker may be used on the line if content is appropriate. You will work around production machinery such as gluing machines, folding machines, and folder gluers, as well as hand tools and power tools, in a team-oriented, safety-focused environment.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Rapids, MI.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $21.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Grand Rapids,MI.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jul 14, 2026.
About Aerotek
Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
