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1St Shift Machine Operator Jobs in Rockingham, NC

Operator

Rockingham, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Where family comes first and community counts. If there's one thing that defines the Novipax team ... As a Machine Operator you will be responsible for operating converting machines and handling ...

Apprentice Setup - Cheraw 1 - 1st Shift

Cheraw, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

A skilled set-up operator apprentice will be trainined on areas of mathematics, blueprint reading ... machinery and equipment * Completes work orders in a timely and efficient manner under the ...

Run material through machine according to company specifications. * Ensure correct materials are used to meet customer specifications. * Ensure all inventory entries are complete and accurate.

... IMTs, Machine Operators and Production Associates in the proper running and completion of preventive maintenance tasks. • Interprets specifications, blueprints, schematics, and work orders in ...

Supports and provides training to other IMTs, Machine Operators and Production Associates in the proper running and completion of preventive maintenance tasks. Interprets specifications, blueprints ...

WELDER - 1ST SHIFT

Polkton, NC · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

... welding machines under the guidance of supervisors. * Read and interpret blueprints, welding ... shift. Key Skills Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and basic welding knowledge are ...

WELDER - 1ST SHIFT

Polkton, NC · On-site

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

... welding machines under the guidance of supervisors. * Read and interpret blueprints, welding ... shift. Key Skills Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and basic welding knowledge are ...

MACHINIST

Polkton, NC · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... machine software. Qualifications * High school diploma or equivalent. * Proven experience operating ... 1st Shift: 7am - 5:30 pm 2nd Shift: 5:30pm - 4am

MACHINIST

Polkton, NC · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... machine software. Qualifications * High school diploma or equivalent. * Proven experience operating ... 1st Shift: 7am - 5:30 pm 2nd Shift: 5:30pm - 4am

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1St Shift Machine Operator information

See Rockingham, NC salary details

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

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st shift machine operator in Rockingham, NC is $15.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1st Shift Machine Operator, and why are they important?

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 does a typical day look like for a 1st Shift Machine Operator, and how does the role interact with other departments?

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC are:
What cities near Rockingham, NC are hiring for 1St Shift Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Rockingham, NC with the most 1St Shift Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various 1St Shift Machine Operator job openings in Rockingham, NC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,178 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, with plants strategically located across the USA, Novipax is safeguarding the future by partnering with fresh protein and produce processors, grocery retailers, foodservice providers, packaging distributors, and healthcare providers to deliver absorbent solutions that protect packaged fresh food and healthcare professionals and patients. Novipax manufactures a suite of category-leading absorbents, including Dri-Loc, Pad-Loc, Multi-Loc and Prep Pads, and the revolutionary active absorbents Dri-Loc XtendaPak and UltraZap XtendaPak.
We believe in Protecting the Things That Matter Most. This is a workplace where your team members have your back-and are pulling for you to succeed. Where family comes first and community counts. If there's one thing that defines the Novipax team, it's that we win together.
POSITION SUMMARY:As a Machine Operator you will be responsible for operating converting machines and handling finished goods in a safe manner. An eye for quality, attention to detail, strong work ethic, critical thinking skills, and excellent attendance are all attributes that you must possess.
We work 12-hour shifts on a 2-3-2 rotation. You will work 3 days one week, 4 the next, and then rotate that schedule. We are a 24/7 operation, so schedule flexibility is important. You will be assigned a primary shift and possibly asked to assist on other shifts as needed. Night and Day shifts are available.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Correctly and safely operate fluff converting lines.
  • Safely and efficiently participate in changeovers, operation, and troubleshooting of various unit ops on assigned line.
  • Check and maintain product quality according to specifications provided.
  • Adjust machine components to regulate speeds, pressures, temperatures, and flow of materials.
  • Record and maintain accurate production data into assigned systems.
  • Supply packaging materials to line as required to ensure efficient operation.
  • Inspect finished goods during the run, help to identify and correct routine quality problems.
  • Maintain all safety, GMP, and area housekeeping standards.
  • Maintains constant communication with other team members to assure product quality, quantity, and efficiencies.
  • Fill out Maintenance request on all needed maintenance functions, assisting when possible.
  • Perform quality tests, analyze and record data. Make necessary process changes to maintain productivity and quality levels.
  • Daily collaboration with Packers and Assistant Operator in determining what tasks need to be accomplished.
  • Train and serve as mentor/lead to others on the line crew.
  • Use material handling equipment as requested.
  • Perform any assigned duties that fall within the scope as defined by site management.

Novipax is successful because of the diversity of our talented Crew. We are an equal opportunity employer and consider and embrace individuals and what makes them, them. We believe our employees should be happy and healthy, with peace of mind and a sense of fulfillment. We provide our employees with competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, opportunities for career development, and a balance. We encourage all individuals to apply for positions that fit their passions.
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.