Do you know everything there is to know about being a machine operator? 

You might be an expert, but it can’t hurt to check out some of the job descriptions for machine operators on our job page. Being a machine operator can be very different from job to job. So taking a moment to read and compare some of the many different tasks included in the position can be useful for having the best interview possible. 

Speaking of having the best interview, we put together this blog as an interview checklist. This is a must-read for anyone about to interview for their next role—what it takes to be the best and what employers are looking for in their next hire.  

Review the Top Interview Preparation Guide for Machine Operators 

Another key strategy to having a great interview is to familiarize yourself with many of the common questions asked during a machine operator’s interview. Again, the questions may vary between employers. But for the most part, you can expect to be asked about: 

1. What do you like about being a machine operator? What attracts you to this role? 

1. Whether you prefer to work by yourself or as part of a team. What are other details about your work style you think might be interesting? 

1. Your strengths and weaknesses as a machine operator. (Hint: it’s okay to be honest about your opportunities. They could indicate a path for professional development for your next employer.) 

1. Yourself and some of your work habits. 

1. How would previous employers describe you? 

1. Machine operating is a detail-oriented job. Be prepared to demonstrate how you have been meticulous in previous roles. 

1. Your work history, including a significant decision you made during a high-pressure situation. 

1. Math skills. There is a good amount of math, calculations, and measurements in machine operations. So be prepared to describe your math skills or even answer some hypothetical math questions.  

Yes, Appearances Matter 

It’s true that machine operators are in very high demand. And you’ll be working in the industrial sector, which is not exactly a shirt-and-tie industry. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t aim to impress during your interview.  

Whether you’re interviewing over Zoom or in person, taking steps to look your best, prepare great answers with specific examples, and brush up on your communication skills can buy you a lot of leverage in negotiations.  

Looking good, feeling confident, and a little bit of preparation is low-hanging fruit to ensure you will have the best interview possible. And by taking your interview seriously, you could make all the difference in how well you’re set up to succeed in your new role.  

Don’t Forget to Ask About a Machine Operator’s Flexible Work Options 

Yes, there are flexible work options, even in manufacturing. Thanks to popular demand, many employers are now offering flexible schedules. Even machine operators have more opportunities than ever to choose a schedule that fits their needs.  

Recent examples include a manufacturer of protective gear for firefighters. They implemented flexible work options for their employees by changing their schedule from a single mandatory 7-3:30 workday. Instead, all employees were allowed to select any start time between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. with corresponding later end times.  

Manufacturers everywhere are finding that with some planning and input from their workers, the changes they’re making to allow more flexibility have been highly successful and have come with very few complications. 

Be upfront and honest with your needs. You may find your prospective employer has a flexible work option that’s right for you! 

Safety First! 

Anyone working in the industrial sector will tell you that worker safety and workplace safety are universal standards you’ll encounter as a machine operator. While it’s good to be “on board” with safety standards and protocols, that might not be enough.  

Employers want their workers and the shop floor to be safe. But they only have so much control and oversight over both individuals or even their own environment. A good rule to keep in mind is that safety starts with you. As a machine operator, you’ll oversee making sure you are keeping yourself and your workplace as hazard-free as possible. 

Safety is especially important since you may have limited supervision. Employers will go wild for an applicant who has a high standard and awareness of safety measures and protocols for the industrial and manufacturing sectors.  

How Can Action Group Staffing Help You Become a Machine Operator? 

Are you ready to get started with one of the most sought-after and rewarding jobs in manufacturing? If so, we are here to help. Contact Action Group Staffing today and get started on a career with a ton of potential and room to grow.