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2Nd Shift Machine Operator Jobs in Laurel, MD (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator - 2nd Shift To transport flooring material from trailers to storage location, and from storage location to the customer or Shaw trucks for shipping. This position is located and ...

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2Nd Shift Machine Operator information

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$12

$18

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How much do 2nd shift machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for 2nd shift machine operator in Laurel, MD is $18.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $19.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 2nd shift machine operator?

A 2nd Shift Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery during the second shift, which typically runs in the afternoon and evening. Their duties include setting up equipment, monitoring production, performing quality checks, and troubleshooting minor mechanical issues. They must follow safety protocols and ensure efficiency in the manufacturing or production process. This role is common in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and packaging, where operations run multiple shifts to meet demand.

What types of machines does a 2nd shift machine operator operate, and what does a typical shift look like?

As a 2nd Shift Machine Operator, you'll usually work with equipment such as CNC machines, injection molding machines, or assembly line machinery, depending on the industry. Your typical shift will involve setting up machines, performing regular quality checks, and troubleshooting minor mechanical issues to keep production running smoothly. You’ll be part of a team that hands off or receives tasks from other shifts, requiring good communication and collaboration. Working the second shift may offer a quieter environment and sometimes comes with shift differentials or bonus pay. This role provides hands-on experience and can be a stepping stone to more advanced technical or supervisory positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 2nd shift machine operator, and why are they important?

A successful 2nd Shift Machine Operator typically possesses strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with operating industrial machinery, reading technical blueprints, and safety certifications such as OSHA training are often required. Dependability, effective teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure that shift work runs efficiently, safely, and with minimal downtime in a production environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Laurel, MD?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Laurel, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to 2Nd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Laurel, MD?

For 2Nd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Laurel, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 2Nd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Laurel, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for 2Nd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Laurel, MD are:

What cities near Laurel, MD are hiring for 2Nd Shift Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Laurel, MD with the most 2Nd Shift Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various 2Nd Shift Machine Operator job openings in Laurel, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 5% Contract, and 25% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,021 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

$27.95/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you looking for a machining position, in an innovative manufacturing center, that allows you to pursue a variety of challenges?
If so, we're looking for you to become part of our creative team on second shift. In our dynamic work environment, we focus on career growth and encourage staff to share knowledge and collaborate. We make critical contributions to critical challenges by fabricating hardware that facilitates the exploration of space, the study of our oceans, and the protection of our nation, as well as many other impactful research projects.
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU APL) is seeking a highly skilled and motivated CNC Machinist to join our team. You will play an instrumental role in helping us manufacture the next generation spacecraft, undersea hardware, shipboard test systems and communication components. You will join a highly-professional, multi-disciplinary fabrication team that supports programs varying from R&D prototype to flight hardware that meet AS9100 standards.
This position will provide the opportunity to learn and work on 3-axis and/or multi-axis CNC milling machines and routers, as well as an opportunity to explore sophisticated programming, the fabrication of complex hardware, and exposure to a wide range of materials (composites, aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, refractory metals, experimental alloys, etc).
This is a second shift position. The work schedule for this position is from 3:00PM to 11:30PM, Monday through Friday. Opportunities for overtime will be made available, as needed.
As an CNC Mill Machinist, your responsibilities will include...
  • Setting-up, programming, maintenance, and operation of CNC and conventional milling machines for end-to-end manufacturing with minimal direction.
  • Analyze and interpreting solid models and blueprints to meet customer specifications, applying skills in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Performing in-process inspection using precision measuring instruments (i.e., I.D and O.D. Micrometers, calipers, height gauges, etc.) to verify that customer hardware specifications and tolerances are met as well as coordinating inspection with our quality assurance section.
  • Communicating and engaging with engineers and designers to collaborate about complex designs and provide fabrication insight to ensure project success.
  • Achieving and maintaining proficiency with all applicable quality processes associated with assigned work.
  • Monitoring and recording duration of work performed in our ERP system in accordance with business and Quality procedures.
  • Performing other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
You will meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you possess...
  • A High School diploma or equivalent.
  • 3+ years experience with set-up, programming, and operation of vertical or multi-axis CNC milling machines.
  • Experience with CAD/CAM programming software, Mastercam preferred.
  • Proficiency in operating general computer functions such as email, file directories, and other web-based applications and programs such as; Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.
  • Functional understanding of programming language (G-Code/Heindenhain).
  • Experience with conventional manual milling machines.
  • Experience interpreting blueprints that use Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Ability to inspect hardware using common measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, gauge pins, thread gauges, indicators, height gauges, etc.)
  • A willingness to work a second shift schedule
  • Ability to acquire an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship

You will surpass our qualifications for the job if you possess...
  • Experience in Multi-Axis machining, including simultaneous toolpathing
  • Experience in MasterCam (2024+) programming software
  • Familiarity with Mazak, DMG-Mori (Siemens), Haas, or Heidenhain CNC controls
  • Leadership and/or operations management experience
  • Track record of quoting/estimating work
  • Degrees/Certifications in relevant manufacturing subject areas
  • A current security clearance at the Secret or Top-Secret level

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$27.95 Hourly
Maximum Rate
$51.25 Hourly

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