what is an operator?
As a machine operator, you work with machines and equipment. Your work is often in a manufacturing or production plant that produces consumer goods or electronic parts. Some machines you are likely to operate include lathes, boring machines, drill presses and precision grinders. You can specialise in running one or multiple types of equipment.
Your job as a machine operator often involves repetitive motions like frequent use of foot pedals, levers and switches. Sometimes, you also feed raw materials into the equipment. These roles require physical strength and manual dexterity to lift heavy goods and ensure the proper operation of the machines. Machine operators also fine-tune and adjust machine calibrations to improve efficiency and accuracy.
As a machine operator, you work in diverse industries. For instance, you operate machines used for drilling and mixing construction materials. In mining, a machine operator works with various machinery and equipment to extract raw materials from a mine site. Operators also work in the manufacturing industry operating computer-controlled machines and other equipment used in production.
operator jobsaverage salary of an operator
An operator in Australia earns an average salary of $60,000 per year. The remuneration package usually fluctuates based on the experience and responsibilities of the operator. An entry-level machine operator takes home a median salary of $55,000 annually. Experienced workers take home over $65,000 annually based on their work experience.
how to increase the salary of an operator
The salary of an operator depends on the complexity of the role and the industry. For instance, when you operate machines in mining, manufacturing or construction, the jobs you undertake are usually complex and require expertise in using specialised equipment. Hence, employers will likely pay more for your expertise in operating specialised machines.
Your work experience and qualifications also influence your earnings. You can negotiate a higher remuneration based on your knowledge and expertise when you have academic qualifications. Having prior experience in the role also improves your earnings since you have hands-on experience operating various equipment. Your location also influences your salary prospects. For instance, working in metro areas increases your remuneration due to the high demand for operators.
Want to know what you will earn as an operator? Check out what you are worth with our salary checker.
types of operators
Some areas of specialisation in machine operations include:
- mobile plant operator: you operate or drive cranes and forklift trucks as a mobile plant operator.
- plant operator: as a plant operator, you operate heavy equipment and machinery on industrial sites. You assist in manufacturing by feeding raw materials into equipment and performing maintenance duties.
- warehouse operator: as a warehouse operator, you move supplies and raw materials. You operate warehouse equipment like forklifts and cranes to lift the materials.
- drilling and boring equipment operator: your job is to set up and operate drilling and milling machines. You use the machines to drill holes in various materials like metal and plastic.
- rolling machine operator: your role is to run rolling mills that shape metals and other materials into rods and plates. You also carry out the necessary maintenance on the machines.
- construction machine operator: as a machine operator in the construction industry, you run excavation machines and cement mixers. Your job is to ensure the machines perform as expected
working as an operator
Working as an operator introduces you to various machinery and equipment. Let's explore the role’s specific duties, work environments and expectations.
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duties and responsibilities
While duties vary depending on the industry sector, the typical responsibilities of an operator include the following:
- setting up machines for operation: as an operator, you connect the parts of a machine according to specifications. You are responsible for setting the machine's operational information, like the speed, cut size and shape. Before production commences, you also check the machine's calibrations.
- loading materials: as an operator, your job involves feeding raw materials into the machines. Some equipment requires you to load materials manually before the manufacturing process can begin. You work quickly to keep the production line moving on time. You also minimise wastage during production by loading the raw materials correctly with minimal issues.
- checking the product quality: as an operator, you ensure the products produced by the machine meet quality standards.
- troubleshooting issues and maintaining machines: a machine operator monitors equipment for proper functioning. You spot problems and fix them before they escalate into major issues. Periodically, you test the operations of the machines, check for any flaws and rectify them. It's also your job to clean up the machine parts after every production process.
- adherence to safety protocols: machine operators comply with all procedures and practices related to the safe operation of machines. You take all necessary steps to reduce the risk of injury. Machine operators wear the correct protective gear while on duty.
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work environment
Primarily, operators work in manufacturing companies, warehouses, workshops or production plants, so you'll spend most of your time indoors. You work in hygienic, well-lit, ventilated areas and often handle high-speed machines. In this working environment, staying on schedule and maintaining a consistent production speed is paramount. Expect to spend most of your time standing, sitting or walking for most of your working day. In some settings, you also do some moderately heavy lifting. Operators working in construction, mining or drilling companies move from worksite to worksite. While at work, you wear protective clothing like heavy gloves, earplugs, goggles and safety boots. Those working with plastics or other fume-producing processes also wear respirators.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues might include project managers, CNC turners, warehouse workers and construction workers. You might also be working in close proximity to plant managers and maintenance technicians, maintenance fitters, as well as other specialists that could include, but not be limited to, warehouse operatives, factory supervisors, project coordinators, project officers, and project engineers.
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work schedule
Some operators work a standard schedule of 40 hours a week. Since most manufacturing plants operate more than one shift a day, expect to work either day or night shifts. In periods of increased production, operators work overtime during the weekends and holidays. You also have a chance to work for a single company on a full-time basis or multiple companies part-time or under contract.
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job outlook
As more companies embrace automation, operators are training to become more versatile. The number of job openings will vary from one industry to the other. As the profession grows steadily, you have multiple opportunities to develop your career. You can specialise in machine operation roles like becoming a forklift operator or crane operator. Another option is to boost your skills and experience levels and advance to supervision roles like production manager, site supervisor or inventory manager.
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advantages of finding an operator job through randstad
Finding your operator job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as an operator is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too.
education and skills
Machine operators don't require formal qualifications. However, completing a college course or VET qualifications improves your career prospects. You can complete a Certificate III in civil construction plant operations and equip yourself with the necessary expertise to be an operator. In some industries, you need a licence to operate machines at a work site; for instance, you require a White Card to work in construction. You also need a forklift licence to become a forklift operator and a high-risk work licence from Safe Work Australia to operate heavy equipment.
skills and competencies
Some qualities that will help you do well as an operator include:
- attention to detail: the work of a machine operator is very delicate, so it is essential to pay attention to every process. You often handle precision equipment; being off by even a millimetre can cause critical errors. A single mistake results in wasted production time and can be very expensive to correct.
- excellent problem-solving skills: as a machine operator, your daily tasks involve assessing why machines aren't performing at peak efficiency and fixing errors to increase output. Such tasks require a person who thinks creatively to develop solutions for very complex issues.
- analytical skills: a machine operator can read and understand blueprints, complex instructions and other specifications. Knowing the capabilities of various machines and how to use the equipment for specific projects is crucial.
- ability to multitask: being able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously without causing errors is essential. While working, you control operations and assess performance. Multitasking skills will help you complete various tasks effectively and correctly.
- physical strength: as a machine operator, you should be physically fit enough to lift moderately heavy weights and handle machines over a long working day or shift.
FAQs about working as an operator
Here are the most asked questions about working as an operator:
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what does an operator do?
An operator is a skilled worker who operates industrial machines or specialised equipment. Your job is to calibrate the machines and ensure they work as expected. You also feed raw materials into the equipment and run the machines to produce finished products. An operator operates diverse equipment, depending on the industry.
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what skills do you require to be an operator?
An operator needs excellent hand-to-eye coordination when operating machines. Problem-solving skills are important in troubleshooting problems that arise. You should also be able to follow instructions and produce the products according to the manufacturer's specifications.
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do operators make good money?
An operator earns a decent salary, ranging from $55,000 to $65,000 per year based on experience and expertise. You can earn more if you specialise in specific machine operations like operating heavy equipment and specific plant machinery.
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how can I improve my operator skills?
Since operators don't require formal education, most learn new skills through on-the-job training. Consider obtaining a VET qualification to improve your knowledge in the field or specialise in operating specific equipment.
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how do I apply for an operator vacancy?
Applying for an operator job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our operator job offers. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here.
