A Mechanic is defined by the dictionary as ‘a person who makes or repairs metal’. A Mechanic has a job involving the use of tools to make something, usually using some kind of machinery. Typical Machine operator PLC jobs include cutting, drilling, pressing or plating. Machine operators, also known as Machinists, are typically responsible for various machine-related functions such as setting up machinery, loading supplies into machines and running machinery, maintaining machinery and doing quality checks on finished products.
To become a machine operator, you will need at least a high school diploma. Some states require that you have an associate’s degree in mechanics before you can apply. You will also need general technical skills, which include basic knowledge of electricity, mechanics, chemistry and computer technology. You may need additional training or education, depending on what type of machinery you operate. The more specialized your job, the more specialized training you will need. Some machine operators complete an apprenticeship where they are trained on their specific trade.
Although machine operators are responsible for the overall operation of a factory or industrial shop, they are rarely seen on the assembly line. Instead, they are found operating routers, compressors and hoists. They are needed in warehouses, automotive plants and other industrial businesses to help with the daily operations that make up that business. They generally function independently, but occasionally they are required to work as part of a larger team. Because they are heavily involved in the daily operations of heavy machinery and other machines, machine operators must be able to work under pressure and to follow detailed instructions.
As a machine operator, your typical day will start with an initial training session. During this time, you will learn safety procedures, machine operation and basic machinery and tool maintenance. After this initial training, your job duties will include setting up and repairing machines as needed, preparing materials for repair, using power tools and other relevant machinery control and maintenance tasks. Depending on the type of machine, you may also be required to service or fix machinery that is not being used. Some machine operators are also required to perform final inspection tasks before the machinery is returned to the production line for full capacity. Once full capacity is reached, these machines are taken back to the shop and either repaired or disposed of.
A machine operator job description will outline the various positions that machine operators can hold. To perform their job responsibilities adequately, each machine operator must be knowledgeable about the particular machinery that they are operating. As machines change over time, the machinery used also changes. This makes it especially important that each machine operator be trained on the specific brand of machinery that they will be operating. It is also important that all machine operators are familiar with the different operating procedures for the machinery as they change it out and as they return it to production.
All machine operators need to have excellent customer service skills. This is critical to both the company and to the operators. If customers are happy with the products or services that they receive, they are more likely to tell others about their experiences. Word of mouth marketing is an extremely effective way to build a company. Training employees in proper customer service skills can only help to make a good company.