Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Conveyor Operator
What conveyor operators actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a conveyor operator?
Walk the conveyor line. From there, the day usually includes run conveyors, monitor flow, and clear jams. Full time, often shifts.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a conveyor operator working full time.
- Walk the conveyor line.
- Start the system.
- Watch the sorter.
- Clear a jam.
- Clean spillage.
- Inspect belts.
- Log downtime.
Where conveyor operators work
Operators work in mines, plants, warehouses and ports.
Hours and schedule
Full time, often shifts.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Run conveyors
- Monitor flow
- Clear jams
- Adjust speeds
- Inspect belts
- Clean spills
- Report problems
Tools you’ll use every day
- Conveyor controls
- Radios
- Shovels
- Brooms
- Pull cords
- Inspection lights
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Short training
- No degree needed
- Steady work
- Path to maintenance
What’s hard
- Noise
- Dust
- Repetitive
- Pinch hazards
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like machines
- I pay attention
- I follow safety rules
- I can work shifts
- I want short training
- I don’t need a degree
Not sure? Take the free Conveyor Operator fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Lock out before reaching in
- Keep guards on
- Know pull cords
- Wear hearing protection