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1St Shift Machine Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

DOC Services

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Lake City, MN · On-site

$20/hr

Position Summary As a Machine Operator, you will play a key role in producing Valley Craft's metal ... Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs Hours 1st Shift: Monday-Thursday 5:00 am - 3:30 pm (5:30 pm ...

seaway

2nd Shift Machine Operator

Vadnais Heights, MN · On-site

$17.25 - $18/hr

In this hands-on role, you'll help produce plastic parts by operating molding machines, removing ... Hours: 2:45pm - 11:15pm Pay: $17.25/hr - $18.00/hr + shift differential Primary Responsibilities:

Seaway

2nd Shift Machine Operator

Vadnais Heights, MN · On-site

$17.25 - $18/hr

In this hands-on role, you'll help produce plastic parts by operating molding machines, removing ... Hours: 2:45pm - 11:15pm Pay: $17.25/hr - $18.00/hr + shift differential Primary Responsibilities:

Lakeshirts

Screenprint Machine Operator

Detroit Lakes, MN · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

... first year, profit sharing, a 401(k) plan, relaxed dress code, onsite cafeteria, and more. THE ... Day Shift: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM, starting at $17.00 per hour . Night Shift: Monday ...

Lakeshirts

Screenprint Machine Operator

Detroit Lakes, MN · On-site

$17 - $30/hr

Day-shift Machine Operators can grow from $17.00/hour to $25.00+/hour, while Night-shift Machine ... the first year, profit sharing, a 401(k) plan, relaxed dress code, onsite cafeteria, and more.A ...

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All Jobs1St Shift Machine Operator Jobs1St Shift Machine Operator Jobs in Minnesota

1St Shift Machine Operator information

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How much do 1st shift machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st shift machine operator in Minnesota is $18.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 1st shift machine operator?

A 1st Shift Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery during the first shift of the workday, typically starting in the early morning and ending in the afternoon. Their duties include setting up machines, monitoring production processes, conducting quality checks, and performing basic maintenance or troubleshooting tasks. This role is common in manufacturing, production, and warehouse environments, and requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and adherence to safety protocols.

What does a 1st shift machine operator do?

As a 1st Shift Machine Operator, your day typically starts early in the morning and involves setting up, operating, and monitoring machinery to ensure efficient production runs. You'll be responsible for maintaining quality standards, troubleshooting minor equipment issues, and completing production reports. Collaboration is common—you'll frequently communicate with supervisors, maintenance teams, and quality assurance staff to address issues and meet production goals. This teamwork is essential for keeping the workflow smooth and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a 1st shift machine operator?

To thrive as a 1st Shift Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, basic computer skills, and safety certifications such as OSHA are commonly required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication help operators excel and maintain a safe, efficient work environment. These skills and qualities are crucial for minimizing downtime, ensuring product quality, and supporting overall plant productivity.

What is the difference between 1St Shift Machine Operator vs 2Nd Shift Machine Operator?

Aspect1St Shift Machine Operator2Nd Shift Machine Operator
Work HoursTypically 8:00 AM - 4:00 PMUsually 4:00 PM - 12:00 AM
CertificationsRequires basic machine operation certificationsSame certifications as 1st shift
Work EnvironmentDaytime production floorEvening/night shift on the same production floor
Employer UsageCommonly advertised for day shifts in manufacturingOften sought for night shift roles in factories

The main difference between a 1St Shift Machine Operator and a 2Nd Shift Machine Operator lies in their working hours. Both roles typically require similar certifications and work in the same environment, but they operate during different shifts. Employers often seek these roles based on shift timing preferences, with 1st shift covering daytime hours and 2nd shift handling evening or night hours.

What are normal 1st shift hours for a 1st shift machine operator?

A 1st shift machine operator typically works during regular daytime hours, commonly from 7:00 or 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 or 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. These hours may vary slightly depending on the company but generally align with standard daytime shifts in manufacturing environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota?

For 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most 1St Shift Machine Operator job openings:

1St Shift Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 1St Shift Machine Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,435 per year, or $18 per hour.

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

DOC Services

Lake City, MN • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 hours ago

Job description

Company Overview
Valley Craft Industries is one of the leading industrial cabinet manufacturers in the world, building high-quality metal storage and material-handling products trusted by customers across the country and beyond. When you join our team, you're putting your name on products recognized for their quality everywhere they're used.
We're proud of what we build, and we provide steady, year-round work in a clean, organized, and safety-focused shop. Our team members value stability, consistent schedules, and opportunities to build long-term careers with us.
Position Summary
As a Machine Operator, you will play a key role in producing Valley Craft's metal products by operating and monitoring manufacturing equipment such as turret presses and bending machines. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work, takes pride in producing quality parts, and wants to work in a stable manufacturing environment with predictable hours.
What You'll Do
  • Operate turret, bending, and other metal fabrication equipment
  • Set up and adjust machines to keep parts within quality standards
  • Monitor production and make minor adjustments as needed
  • Visually inspect parts and use measuring tools or fixtures
  • Read work instructions, prints, and production paperwork
  • Troubleshoot basic machine or quality issues
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area
  • Support production goals and assist teammates when needed

What We're Looking For
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 1+ year of manufacturing or machine operation experience preferred
  • Familiarity with metal fabrication equipment and processes
  • Ability to read blueprints, job travelers, and work instructions
  • Strong attention to detail and quality
  • Dependable, team-oriented, and safety-focused
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check

Physical Requirements
  • Continuous standing and movement throughout the shift
  • Frequent bending, reaching, and handling of parts
  • Ability to work in hot and cold manufacturing environments
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs

Hours
1st Shift: Monday-Thursday 5:00 am - 3:30 pm (5:30 pm during OT), Fridays as needed.
Benefits
  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Nine (9) paid holidays
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Enjoy a 4-day workweek with consistent hours and overtime opportunities when production is high.
  • Clean, organized, and safety-focused shop
  • Training and advancement opportunities

Valley Craft Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
Salary Description
$20.00 per hour

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