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3Rd Shift Machine Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Operator (TFE Extruder) -3rd Shift

Gaston, SC

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Job Summary The TFE Operator will be responsible for machine operation. This would include troubleshooting, documentation, and quality of material. Zeus Industrial Products, headquartered in ...

... Shift CPP Operator at our Ridgeway, SC facility. Assigned Schedule: 5:00am to 1:30pm Monday to ... Operate Rosenthal Machine * Inspect prepreg sheets for quality * Relocate unused prepreg roll back ...

New

... Shift CPP Operator at our Ridgeway, SC facility. Assigned Schedule: 5:00am to 1:30pm Monday to ... Operate Rosenthal Machine * Inspect prepreg sheets for quality * Relocate unused prepreg roll back ...

New

... Shift CPP Operator at our Ridgeway, SC facility. Assigned Schedule: 5:00am to 1:30pm Monday to ... Operate Rosenthal Machine * Inspect prepreg sheets for quality * Relocate unused prepreg roll back ...

New

... Shift CPP Operator at our Ridgeway, SC facility. Assigned Schedule: 5:00am to 1:30pm Monday to ... Operate Rosenthal Machine * Inspect prepreg sheets for quality * Relocate unused prepreg roll back ...

New

... Shift CPP Operator at our Ridgeway, SC facility. Assigned Schedule: 5:00am to 1:30pm Monday to ... Operate Rosenthal Machine * Inspect prepreg sheets for quality * Relocate unused prepreg roll back ...

New

... a 3rd Shift Ply Up Operator at our Ridgeway, SC facility. Assigned Schedule: 9:00pm 5:30am Sunday ... TOP RESPONSIBILITIES: * Verifying work orders and tooling programs used to operate machines

... a 3rd Shift Ply Up Operator at our Ridgeway, SC facility. Assigned Schedule: 9:00pm 5:30am Sunday ... TOP RESPONSIBILITIES: * Verifying work orders and tooling programs used to operate machines

... a 3rd Shift Ply Up Operator at our Ridgeway, SC facility. Assigned Schedule: 9:00pm 5:30am Sunday ... TOP RESPONSIBILITIES: * Verifying work orders and tooling programs used to operate machines

... a 3rd Shift Ply Up Operator at our Ridgeway, SC facility. Assigned Schedule: 9:00pm 5:30am Sunday ... TOP RESPONSIBILITIES: * Verifying work orders and tooling programs used to operate machines

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

2nd Shift 4:15PM - Until Finish The Machine Operator should be able to independently operate identified/assigned packaging machines installed at the site. Duties and Responsibilities: * Regular and ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

2nd Shift 4:15PM - Until Finish The Machine Operator should be able to independently operate identified/assigned packaging machines installed at the site. Duties and Responsibilities: * Regular and ...

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Columbia, SC

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

1st Shift - 7:00AM - Until Finish The Machine Operator should be able to independently operate identified/assigned packaging machines installed at the site. Duties and Responsibilities: * Regular and ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

2nd Shift 4:15PM - Until FinishThe Machine Operator should be able to independently operate identified/assigned packaging machines installed at the site.Duties and Responsibilities:Regular and ...

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3Rd Shift Machine Operator information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$12

$17

$22

How much do 3rd shift machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3rd shift machine operator in Columbia, SC is $17.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3rd shift machine operator?

3rd Shift Machine Operators are employees who operate and monitor machinery during the overnight or late-night shift, typically from late evening to early morning. Their responsibilities include setting up machines, performing routine maintenance, ensuring quality control, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Working the third shift often requires attention to safety protocols, the ability to work independently, and adaptability to a nighttime work schedule. These roles are common in manufacturing, warehouse, and production environments where operations run 24/7.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3rd shift machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3rd Shift Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with prior manufacturing experience. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and often basic computer systems or machine interface panels is expected. Reliability, problem-solving, and the ability to work independently during overnight hours are important soft skills. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of equipment, minimal downtime, and consistent production quality during less supervised shifts.

What are some common challenges faced by 3rd shift machine operators and how can they be managed?

3rd Shift Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining focus during overnight hours, managing fatigue, and adapting to a quieter or less supervised work environment. To overcome these, it’s important to establish a consistent sleep schedule, stay hydrated, and take advantage of scheduled breaks to prevent burnout. Operators are encouraged to communicate regularly with team members across shifts to ensure seamless handovers and address any issues that arise. Many companies offer shift differentials and support programs to help 3rd shift workers manage these challenges effectively.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Columbia, SC?

For 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most 3Rd Shift Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various 3Rd Shift Machine Operator job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,360 per year, or $17 per hour.

Operator (TFE Extruder) -3rd Shift

Zeus

Gaston, SC

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

The TFE Operator will be responsible for machine operation. This would include troubleshooting, documentation, and quality of material.

Zeus Industrial Products, headquartered in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is the world's leading polymer extrusion manufacturer and material science innovator. More than 50 years of experience in medical, aerospace, energy, automotive, fiber optics, and more allows us to set the bar high.

Zeus is a great place to work. Expectations are high; our work is meticulous and very precise. Zeus offers an opportunity to join a very successful, family-oriented team. Our products are cutting-edge, our process is unique, and our quality and customer focus are second-to-none. We are a leader in our field and have great relationships with our customers and team members. Many of our team members are the best at what they do in the world. Our customers are leaders in their fields. Our products help save lives.

Continuous Improvement is a way of life at Zeus. Successful candidates will have a desire and ability to take our manufacturing process to the next level. Expectations are high; our work is meticulous and very precise. You must possess the ability to work independently; and the desire to learn a variety of skills. The ability to communicate clearly is imperative, as is the ability to manipulate data using various software packages. 

At Zeus, what we do matters, and we pride ourselves in "Turning polymers into possibilities." Expectations are high; our products are cutting-edge, our process is unique, and our quality and customer focus are second-to-none.

Our employees and our customers are at the center of everything we do. Those relationships have been built on a foundation that is supported by our Mission and Vision:

Our Mission:  Provide Solutions - Enable Innovation - Enhance Lives

Our Vision:  Working Together - Doing It Better

Zeus is an exciting, innovative company that offers competitive pay and a great benefits package. As we continue to push the boundaries of polymer science, we're constantly in need of new ideas, new expertise, and new team members. Are you ready to join us?
Content

High school diploma or equivalent

The ability to carry out oral and written instructions along with the ability to adapt to different situations

The ability to lift up to 50 lbs. repetitively; push/ pull approximately 11lbs., walk up and down stairs.

The employee must have the ability to perform inspection functions such as visual inspection to detect cosmetic defects and color differentiation of products.

Must have basic mathematical skills including addition subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions and decimals. Must be able to read and write legibly.

Attendance and punctuality are essential functions of this position. Any unscheduled absence or tardy will have a negative impact on our ability to meet our production objectives.

Physical aspects of the job are defined on the Physical Demands Analysis located in HR

Must Meet WorkKeys/WIN Requirements (Level 3 for Reading & Level 4 for Math)

Install proper tooling, load, run and monitor extruder with minimum downtime.

Make pre-forms out of resin as specified on order card.

Measure and maintain correct wall thickness of tubing.

Operator only runs one machine.

Keep tooling and machines in good working condition.

Polish and straighten tooling on lathe.

Keep work area clean and free of debris.

Observe all safety rules and regulations.

Maintain good communications within the department.