Machine Operator

Ready to find your top-notch Machine Operator? These sample interview questions will get the right candidates in front of you during the interview process.

Machine Operator qualifications to look for 

Machine operators typically work in manufacturing and production to set up, control and maintain machines. 

Most hires will hold a high school diploma or equivalent and have some related experience. This position typically offers on the job training, but top candidates will show a strong technical aptitude.
📌Don’t forget: Check local legislation as licensure requirements vary per location.

Keep an eye out for candidates who have:

  • Excellent communication skills 
  • A drive to learn  
  • Strong adherence to safety standards
  • A commitment to following procedures

Top tip: Hire candidates willing to grow by making sure their personal career goals align with your company's mission.

Problem-solving interview questions

  • How do you manage to fix multiple machines that need attending?
  • What must you do before you start a production cycle?
  • Why is quality assurance important as a machine operator?
  • Why are logs important? What information do they store? 
  • You discover that a machine has an issue, but your supervisor asks you to let it run until the daily production quota has been met before fixing it. How do you respond? 
  • If you noticed that your colleagues are not complying with safety rules how do you respond?

Role-specific interview questions

  • What tools do you use regularly on the job?  
  • Do you prefer working individually or as part of a team? Why? 
  • How do you respond if you’re asked to stay later than your scheduled time?
  • Do you have experience with [type of machine]? If so, explain it. 
  • What steps do you take during a quality check?
  • What process do you use to perform maintenance to a machine?
  • What’s your experience in programming machines? How long have you been doing this?

Behavioral interview questions

  • Have you ever made a mistake in measuring parts or final products? How did you fix it? 
  • Tell me one thing you did to improve the quality of processes in your last job. How did your supervisor respond?
  • How do you respond to a hazard in the workplace?
  • Describe a time when you disagreed with a coworker. What was the issue and how was it resolved? 

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