Machine Feeders and Offbearers
What is a Machine Feeders and Offbearers?
Machine Feeders and Offbearers are essential workers in manufacturing and production environments, responsible for managing the flow of materials in and out of machines. They work closely with various types of machinery, including those used in manufacturing processes like stamping, molding, cutting, and packaging. These workers typically prepare and load materials into machines, ensuring that the machines run smoothly and efficiently. Once the production cycle is complete, they also handle the removal of finished products or materials, often performing quality checks to maintain high standards. Their role is crucial in maintaining the productivity of the manufacturing process, and they ensure that operations run without interruptions. The work environments can vary significantly, ranging from factories to assembly lines, and often require physical stamina and attention to detail.
Tasks
- Inspect materials and products for defects, and to ensure conformance to specifications.
- Record production and operational data, such as amount of materials processed.
- Push dual control buttons and move controls to start, stop, or adjust machinery and equipment.
- Weigh or measure materials or products to ensure conformance to specifications.
- Identify and mark materials, products, and samples, following instructions.
Technology Skills
- Spreadsheet software
- Electronic mail software
- Office suite software
- Time accounting software
- Industrial control software
Tools Used
- Track cranes
- Wrapping machinery
- Electronic actuators
- Hoists
- Safety glasses
Knowledge
-
Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
-
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
-
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Skills
-
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
-
Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Abilities
-
Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
-
Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
-
Rate Control
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
-
Reaction Time
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
-
Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
-
High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
-
Less than high school diploma
-
Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
Work Activities
-
Handling and Moving Objects
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
-
Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
-
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
-
Performing General Physical Activities
Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
-
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Detailed Work Activities
- Inspect items for damage or defects.
- Inspect work to ensure standards are met.
- Record operational or production data.
- Operate conveyors or other industrial material moving equipment.
- Measure product or material dimensions.
Work Interests
-
Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
-
Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$29880.0 - $53320.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.