Conveyor Operators and Tenders
Conveyor operators run the moving belt systems that transport materials and products throughout factories, warehouses, and processing plants. You'll monitor computer screens and gauges to ensure everything runs smoothly, record important data about production, and perform maintenance to keep the systems working properly. This job combines hands-on mechanical work with technology, as you'll use digital controls and work as part of a team to keep production flowing efficiently.
Did you know?
This role requires significant physical stamina and adherence to strict OSHA safety protocols due to working with heavy industrial machinery and potentially hazardous environments.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$42,500 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Operations Monitoring
Things to consider
Technical Skill Development
Staying current with evolving automation technologies and obtaining relevant certifications (such as PLC programming or electrical systems) is essential for career advancement in America's increasingly automated industrial sector.
Growing Job Market Opportunities
The expansion of e-commerce fulfillment centers and manufacturing automation across the United States creates strong demand for skilled conveyor technicians, particularly in logistics hubs and industrial regions.
Key responsibilities
Load, unload, or adjust materials or products on conveyors by hand, by using lifts, hoists, and scoops, or by opening gates, chutes, or hoppers.
Join sections of conveyor frames at temporary working areas, and connect power units.
Record production data such as weights, types, quantities, and storage locations of materials, as well as equipment performance problems and downtime.
Observe packages moving along conveyors to identify packages, detect defective packaging, and perform quality control.
Thread strapping through strapping tools and secure battens with strapping to form protective pallets around extrusions.