How Do I Become a Machine Tender?

Machine tenders are individuals who are normally charged with the responsibility of not only operating a machine or group of machines within a manufacturing plant, but also performing basic maintenance that allows the output of those machines to remain somewhat consistent from one production hour to the next. Deciding to become a machine tender will often involve the need for some type of practical experience as well as basic training and mentoring. Since the specifics of machine operation and maintenance will vary somewhat from one position to the next, the actual process employed to become a machine tender will also vary.

One way to become a machine tender is to convince an employer that you have the basic skills needed to learn how to operate and perform simple maintenance on a given piece of machinery. Factors such as the ability to perform repetitive tasks with speed and competence will often be considered an advantage. In addition, attention to detail is also very important, since this would make it possible to identify when the machinery is not performing properly and take appropriate actions to correct the issue sooner rather than later. By convincing an employer that you possess both the basic skills and the aptitude to manage your assigned tasks with ease, you become a prime candidate for any machine tending position that is currently open.

Along with exhibiting the essential skills necessary to become a machine tender, making the most of the employer’s training program will also be part of the process of securing the tending job you have in mind. Depending on the complexity of the work involved, this may include a period of classroom instruction, or even some time spent taking related courses at a vocational or trade school at the expense of the employer. Just about every new machine tender will be provided with some sort of mentoring under the direction of an experienced employee, even if the job responsibilities are relatively straightforward. Making it a point to learn policies and procedures during this mentoring period will increase productivity once you are allowed to manage the machines on your own.

The decision to become a machine tender requires basic skills related to the operation and maintenance of the machinery involved, a willingness to learn exactly what to do in order to manage the job tasks responsibly, and a dedication to carry out those tasks in the most efficient manner possible. Convincing an employer that you have the basic skills required and then completing the training successfully will pave the way for eventually becoming recognized as a full fledged tender. Once this happens and the employer knows your value to the organization, the opportunity to enjoy a significant degree of job security will emerge, strengthened over time as you manage your assigned tasks in accordance with company standards.