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

Lakeshirts

Production 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 ...

Lakeshirts

Production Machine Operator

Detroit Lakes, MN · On-site

$17 - $30/hr

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

CAERUS CORP

Sewing Machine Operator 1st shift

Blaine, MN · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Sewing Machine Operator, 1st Shift Schedule: Monday - Thursday, 5am - 3:30pm Pay Range: Starting at $17.00/hour Company Overview: At Caerus Corp, we are committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive ...

Caerus Corp

Sewing Machine Operator 1st shift

Blaine, MN · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Sewing Machine Operator, 1st Shift Schedule: Monday - Thursday, 5am - 3:30pm Pay Range: Starting at $17.00/hour Company Overview: At Caerus Corp, we are committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive ...

Taher, Inc.

1st Shift Lead Machine Operator

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

Lead Machine Operator Position Summary The Machine Operator is responsible for safely operating production equipment while ensuring product quality and production efficiency standards are met.

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

1St Shift Machine Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$17

$23

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

As of Aug 7, 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 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 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 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 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, 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 5% 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.

Specialty Department Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Quanex

Saint Cloud, MN • On-site

$19 - $29/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Quanex is looking for a Specialty Machine Operator – 1st Shift to join our team located in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

Looking for a hands-on role where you can build your skills and make an impact every day? As a Specialty Machine Operator, you'll work with a variety of woodworking equipment, including table saws, routers, shapers, drill machines, and sanders, to produce quality products that meet customer expectations. You'll be trusted to set up equipment, maintain production standards, and ensure every piece meets our quality requirements.

We recognize and reward growth. Advancement is based on your ability to master additional equipment, consistently produce quality work, and help train and mentor others on the team. If you enjoy learning new skills and taking on new challenges, this role offers plenty of opportunities to grow.

Salary: $19.00-$29.00 per hour, starting wage varies based on your experience

New Hire Bonus: $1,000, payout increments at 30-days, 60-days and 6-months of employment!

Work Hours: Monday – Friday, 6:00am-2:30pm

Work Hours if overtime is required: Monday – Friday, 6:00am – 4:30pm, potential Saturday hours

We Offer You!

  • Medical, dental & vision start the 1st of the month after hire
  • Medical coverage featuring wellness incentives that may significantly reduce employee premiums
  • PTO, ESST, paid holidays & paid training — starts right away
  • 401(k) with company match & vesting
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Life insurance provided
  • Tuition assistance
  • Wellness resources & onsite physical therapist
  • Safety-toe shoes at no cost
  • Free fountain drinks and coffee during shifts
  • Referral bonuses

What’s attractive about the Specialty Machine Operator role?

  • Collaborative and Team-Oriented environment
  • World Class Safety records
  • Hands-on physical therapy, on-site for you and your spouse
  • 90-day performance review with potential pay increase

What Success Looks Like:

  • Follow all safety procedures, rules, and guidelines.
  • Monitors product to ensure that quality standards are being met.
  • Set-Up, operate, and verify work on assigned machine.
  • Accurately, thoroughly, and legibly completes all documentation related to the position.
  • Ability to train others as requested.
  • Promotes teamwork by cooperating and supporting co-workers.

What You Bring:

  • High School or equivalent education, required.
  • 6 months+ of related machine operating experience, preferred.
  • Ability to read prints and measuring instruments.
  • Ability to perform detailed work that requires high levels of concentration.
  • Bringing a positive attitude and team-oriented mentality.

About Quanex, A Part of Something Bigger

Quanex (NYSE: NX) is a global, publicly traded manufacturing company primarily serving OEMs in the fenestration, cabinetry, solar, refrigeration and outdoor products markets. We are A Part of Something Bigger by improving the performance and aesthetics of end products through continuous innovation, helping customers achieve greater production efficiencies, dedication to giving back to communities where we operate, producing shareholder value and helping our employees learn, grow, and thrive. Learn more at Quanex.com.

NOTE: For individuals with nut allergies, please be advised that there is the potential to be exposed to nut products when working in our facilities.

Company Description

With locations around the world, Quanex Building Products Corporation is an industry-leading manufacturer of components sold to Original Equipment Manufacturers in the building products industry. Quanex designs and produces energy-efficient fenestration products in addition to kitchen and bath cabinet components.

Quanex logo

About Quanex

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1927

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