What is a Technical Operator?

In brief

As technical operator You are responsible for the optimal operation of production machines. You keep a close eye on processes, solve malfunctions and ensure that production continues to run smoothly. A job in which technique, precision and responsibility come together.

What will you do as a Technical Operator?

A technical operator operates, monitors and maintains production machines or entire production lines. You ensure that machines are set up properly, monitor the production process and intervene in case of malfunctions or deviations. In doing so, you use both technical knowledge and computer skills, because many machines are automated nowadays.

Main duties:

  • Setting, operating and adjusting machinery
  • Monitor the production process via control panels or computer systems
  • Solving minor malfunctions or defects
  • Control product quality according to established standards
  • Perform maintenance and cleaning work
  • Reporting production data to team leaders or engineers

You in this role

This role is all about overview, precision and working safely. These are the skills you need:

Technical understanding and accuracy
Sense of responsibility and safety awareness
Eye for technology + logical understanding
Stress resistant and problem solving
Team player with a hands-on attitude
Interest in automation and process improvement

This is what your workday looks like

You start the day with a handover from the previous shift. Then you check whether all machines are running properly and adjust production parameters where necessary. During the process you keep an eye on the quality of products and intervene in case of breakdowns or deviations. Sometimes you perform maintenance or support the technical department. At the end of your shift you hand over all data neatly to your colleagues of the next shift.

Training and advancement

To become a technical operator, you need a technical education. Popular training programs are:

  • VAPRO A through D (depending on machine complexity)
  • MBO Process Engineering (level 2-4)
  • MBO Mechatronics or Mechanical Engineering
  • Courses in safety (VCA) or process automation


Many operators start through a BBL track where you combine working and learning. This way you gain practical experience and obtain your diploma. 

Salary

The average salary of a technical operator in 2025 is between €2,400 and €3,800 gross per month. Starters (machine operators) typically earn around €2,400, while experienced process operators with shift bonus can reach €4,200 gross per month.

Diploma

A mbo diploma in process engineering, mechatronics or mechanical engineering is required. With additional certificates, you can advance to positions such as process operator, maintenance engineer or production team leader.

Number of hours

Most technical operators work full-time (36-40 hours per week). There are sometimes part-time opportunities, especially in smaller production environments.

Working Hours

Technical operators often work in shifts (2, 3 or 5 shifts). This means irregular working hours, but there is usually an attractive shift bonus in return.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly does a technical operator do?

A technical operator operates and maintains machines, monitors the production process and ensures that everything goes according to schedule.

A machine operator operates one or a few machines; a process operator monitors and controls an entire production process.

Not always. With a technical mbo education, you can often enter as a junior operator and advance within the company.

You will usually work in shifts within a production team, along with other operators and technicians.

Sure! You can advance to process operator, shift supervisor or technical specialist.