operator.

Operate and handle cranes and forklifts as a mobile equipment operator.

Operates heavy machinery and equipment at industrial sites. Contributes to the manufacturing process by supplying raw materials to the equipment and performing maintenance operations.

Move materials and raw supplies. Operate warehouse equipment such as forklifts and cranes to lift the materials.

Set up and operate lathes and milling machines. Use the equipment to drill holes in various materials, such as metal and plastic.

Run metal and other materials into bars and sheets using the rolling mill. Also, perform the necessary maintenance work on the equipment.

Operate excavation equipment and concrete mixers as a construction machinery operator. Ensure that the equipment functions according to specifications.

Although responsibilities vary depending on the industry sector, the typical duties of an operator include the following:

• Preparing the equipment for operation: You are the one who connects the machine parts according to the specifications. You configure the machine's operating parameters, such as speed, size, and cutting shape. Additionally, you check the machine's calibration before starting production.
• Material Loading: You are responsible for feeding the machinery with raw materials. Some equipment requires manual loading of materials. You work quickly to ensure the production line runs smoothly without interruptions. Additionally, you minimize waste during production by properly loading the raw materials.
• Product quality inspection: You ensure that the products manufactured by the equipment meet quality standards.
• Troubleshooting and Equipment Maintenance: You monitor the machinery to ensure it operates correctly. You identify issues and fix them before they become major problems. Periodically, you test the equipment’s performance, check for faults, and address any issues. Additionally, you are responsible for cleaning the machine parts after each production run.
• Adherence to safety protocols: Follow all procedures and practices related to the safe operation of equipment. Take all necessary measures to reduce the risk of injury. Wear appropriate protective gear during work.

As an operator, you'll primarily work in manufacturing companies, warehouses, workshops, or factories, so you'll spend most of your time indoors. You'll work in clean, well-lit, and ventilated areas, often operating high-speed machinery. In this work environment, it's essential to follow the production schedule and maintain a steady pace. Expect to spend a good part of your workday standing, sitting, or walking. In some settings, you may also lift moderate weights.

Operators working in construction, mining, or drilling companies move from one site to another. On the job, you'll wear personal protective equipment such as heavy gloves, earplugs, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots. Those working with plastics or other materials that emit harmful fumes will also use a respirator.

Your colleagues can vary depending on your employer and the industry you work in. They might include project managers, CNC machinists, warehouse workers, construction laborers. Additionally, you could be working close to factory managers, maintenance technicians, maintenance plumbers, and other specialists who may include, but are not limited to, warehouse agents, factory supervisors, project coordinators, project officers, and design engineers.

Some operators work a standard 40-hour week. However, since most factories operate across multiple shifts per day, you can expect to work either day shift or night shift. During periods of increased production, operators may be required to work overtime on weekends and holidays.

You also have the option to work full-time for a single company or part-time or on a contract basis with multiple companies.

As more companies adopt automation, operators are training to become more versatile. The number of available jobs will vary depending on the industry. Since the profession is continuously evolving, there are multiple opportunities for career growth.

You can specialize in operating certain equipment, such as a forklift operator or crane operator. Another option is to improve your skills and experience to advance into supervisory roles, like production manager, site supervisor, or inventory manager.

Finding a job as an operator through Randstad offers significant advantages, such as:

• professional guidance and counseling to maximize your chances of success in the recruitment process
• a contact person with experience, available to provide assistance when needed.
• a variety of career opportunities in your area of expertise
• temporary and permanent contracts

Are you looking for a permanent contract? A temporary job as an operator is often a stepping stone toward securing an attractive permanent position. Every year, thousands of people land permanent contracts with top companies thanks to temporary jobs found through Randstad. Additionally, many companies also recruit their permanent employees through Randstad!

There are specialized courses for various types of equipment, such as forklifts, excavators, cranes, and more.

To deepen knowledge and skills for operating more complex equipment or advancing in your career.

You can pursue an apprenticeship to develop your practical skills and take the first step toward a career as an operator.

An operator's work is delicate, requiring careful attention to every step of the process. They often handle precision equipment, where even a one-millimeter mistake can lead to serious issues. A single error can result in production delays and high correction costs.

As an operator, you identify daily reasons why equipment isn't operating at full capacity and resolve issues to boost production. These tasks require a creative individual capable of developing solutions for complex problems.

A technician must be able to read and understand technical drawings, complex instructions, and other specifications. It’s essential to be familiar with the capabilities of different machinery and how to operate equipment for specific projects.

The ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously without errors is essential. During work, you oversee operations and assess performance. Multitasking skills will help you complete various tasks efficiently and accurately.

To be an operator, you need to be in good physical shape to lift moderate weights and handle equipment throughout a workday or shift.

A machine operator is a skilled worker who operates industrial machinery or specialized equipment. Your job is to calibrate the machines and ensure they are functioning according to specifications. You also load raw materials into the equipment and operate it to produce finished products. An operator may work with various types of equipment, depending on the industry.

An operator needs excellent hand-eye coordination to operate machinery. Problem-solving skills are important for troubleshooting issues. Additionally, you must be able to follow instructions and produce products according to the manufacturer's specifications.

A operator earns a net salary ranging from 2,500 to 3,500 RON per month, depending on experience and expertise. You can earn more—over 4,000 RON net per month—if you specialize in operating certain machines, such as heavy equipment or factory-specific machinery.

Since operators don't necessarily require formal education, most of them acquire their skills through on-the-job training. You might consider obtaining a certification to enhance your knowledge in the field or to specialize in operating specific equipment.

Applying for a job as an operator is simple: create a Randstad profile and browse our job listings for available positions in your area. Then, just send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our career tips here! Want to stay updated on the latest trends and insights in the job market? Download the newest reports and research here.