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1St Shift Machine Operator Jobs in Coldwater, MI

Lund Inc

Machine Operator

Howe, IN

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

1st Shift: 5:00am-3:30pm Monday - Thursday with occasional Friday RealTruck is the premier ... We are seeking Machine Operators to join our team! Do you enjoy working with your hands? You will ...

RealTruck

Machine Operator

Howe, IN

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

1st Shift: 5:00am-3:30pm Monday - Thursday with occasional Friday RealTruck is the premier ... We are seeking Machine Operators to join our team! Do you enjoy working with your hands? You will ...

Truck Hero

Machine Operator

Howe, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

1st Shift: 5:00am-3:30pm Monday - Thursday with occasional Friday RealTruck is the premier ... We are seeking Machine Operators to join our team! Do you enjoy working with your hands? You will ...

Lund RealTruck

Machine Operator

Howe, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

1st Shift: 5:00am-3:30pm Monday - Thursday with occasional Friday RealTruck is the premier ... We are seeking Machine Operators to join our team! Do you enjoy working with your hands? You will ...

Iceberg Enterprises LLC

Machine Operator

Sturgis, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $20.06/hr

Job Scope As an Operator, you're responsible for running machinery or producing product at or above ... 1st Shift: 6:45 am - 3:00 pm 2nd Shift: 2:45 pm - 11:00 pm 3rd Shift: 10:45 pm - 7:00 am

TriMas Corporation

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Hamilton, IN

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

The assembly machine operator is responsible for operating a variety of assembly machines and inspecting product to guarantee product quality requirements. This position is for 2nd Shift: 2:00pm-10 ...

TriMas Corporation

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Hamilton, IN

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

The assembly machine operator is responsible for operating a variety of assembly machines and inspecting product to guarantee product quality requirements. This position is for 3rd Shift: 10:00pm-6 ...

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1St Shift Machine Operator information

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st shift machine operator in Coldwater, MI is $17.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $18.65 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 Coldwater, MI?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Coldwater, MI are:

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

The top searched job categories for 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs in Coldwater, MI are:

What cities near Coldwater, MI are hiring for 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Coldwater, MI 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 Coldwater, MI 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 $36,205 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Machine Operator 1st Shift-Montpelier, Ohio

Metz, IN

Martin Sprocket & Gear
Industrial Machinery Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

437th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by parents

Respectful managers

Learn more about Martin Sprocket & Gearexternal

$16 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to bring your Machine Operator skills to a team that values precision and innovation? At Martin Sprocket & Gear, we're dedicated to producing quality mechanical power transmission components, material handling systems, and custom forgings with excellence, and we're looking for skilled Machine Operators like you!
What You'll Do:
  • Follow production instructions: Follow production instructions and tasks from process sheets, blueprints, or verbal directions provided by the supervisor to achieve desired outcomes in the manufacturing process.
  • Install machine fixtures: Align and secure dies, punches, blades, or other fixtures to ensure the machine operates safely.
  • Operate machinery: Set up and operate machines such as lathes, mills, drills, presses, and CNC machines according to specifications.
  • Inspect operations: Monitor the production process to ensure the machines function correctly and product meet quality standards. Perform inspections and measurements of finished products to verify they meet specified tolerances and quality standards, using tools like calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
  • Adhere to cleanliness and safety protocols: Follow safety protocols and guidelines to maintain a safe working environment, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhering to safety regulations. Use a crane or buddy system to maneuver large, awkward, or heavy parts. Ensure that the work area is clean and organized.
  • Perform other duties: Assist in other areas or departments as needed.

What You'll Bring:
  • Math skills: Requires average math skills, with the ability to read and comprehend instructions written in English and complete simple logs and reports in English.
  • Physical capability: Must be physically able to handle heavy items, including lifting, pushing, pulling, and positioning components.
  • Policy/procedure compliance: Must be able to work scheduled hours and comply with the company's timekeeping policy and all other company policies.
  • Stamina: Must be able to consistently stand for an entire shift in a non-climate-controlled shop environment.
  • Machining knowledge: Ability to learn fundamental machining concepts and demonstrate proficiency in using measuring devices.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with other team members, including supervisors, to optimize production processes and implement improvements.
  • Accuracy: Attention to detail is essential for maintaining quality standards.
  • Reliability: Demonstrates a strong commitment to dependability and consistent performance.
  • Adaptable precision: Detail-oriented with the flexibility to respond effectively to shifting production demands.

Your Schedule:
  • 1st Shift Monday - Friday, 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM.

To perform this job successfully, you must be able to report daily to the branch to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified candidates with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Why Martin Sprocket & Gear, Inc.?
Founded in 1951 by Joe Martin Sr., Martin Sprocket & Gear is a global leader in mechanical power transmission components, material handling systems, and custom forgings. We are proud to remain family-owned and operate on a simple philosophy:
"Make a quality product, have plenty of it available, and be easy to do business with!"
With dedicated employees, regional facilities, and strong distributor partnerships, Martin offers stability, growth potential, and a dynamic work environment for all team members.
Why You Will Love Working Here:
At Martin, our people are our greatest asset. We foster an inclusive, collaborative environment where innovation and growth thrive, and your contributions are valued as part of a team dedicated to excellence. Here is what you'll enjoy when you join our team:
  • Comprehensive Health Benefits: Affordable Medical, Pharmacy, and Dental plans.
  • Wellness Initiatives: Employee wellness programs for a healthy work-life balance.
  • Financial Security: Life and Disability Insurance, plus a robust 401(k) Profit Trust Plan.
  • Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (PTO) and company-paid holidays.
  • Growth Opportunities: Career development and advancement within a thriving company.

Ready to Join Us?
Apply today and become part of Martin Sprocket & Gear's legacy of quality and excellence!
Disclaimers
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by candidates applying for this specific role. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of candidates hired.
Martin Sprocket & Gear is an EEO Employer and an E-Verify participating employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, or veteran status.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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