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Basic Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Machine Operator Location: Richmond, VA Employment Type: Temp to Direct Industry: Industrial ... AI agent role is to help speed up your hiring process by answering questions, confirming basic ...

Machine Operator

Salem, VA ยท On-site

$17.80 - $23.86/hr

Title: General Operator Business Unit : Medeco Security Locks Location : Salem, VA (on-site ... Ability to perform basic machine troubleshooting. * Basic math skills, high school graduate or ...

Machine Operator

Salem, VA ยท On-site

$17.80 - $23.86/hr

Title: General Operator Business Unit : Medeco Security Locks Location : Salem, VA (on-site ... Ability to perform basic machine troubleshooting. * Basic math skills, high school graduate or ...

Machine Operator 2

Chilhowie, VA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Machine Operator 2 Posting Start Date: 6/30/26 Main Location: Chilhowie,VA Requisition ID: 53277 ... Basic mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills * Ability to stand for extended periods and ...

Machine Operator

Salem, VA ยท On-site

$20.21 - $25.50/hr

Title: Machine Operator Business Unit: Medeco Security Locks Location: Salem, VA (on-site ... Basic computer skills to keep up with the digital side of manufacturing. * The strength to lift up ...

Machine Operator

Salem, VA ยท On-site

$20.21 - $25.50/hr

Title: Machine Operator Business Unit: Medeco Security Locks Location: Salem, VA (on-site ... Basic computer skills to keep up with the digital side of manufacturing. * The strength to lift up ...

Machine Operator II, Glass

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator II - Glass Work Schedule: 1st shift Location: P2 - Richmond, VA What we're looking ... Basic Preventative Maintenance. * Ability to multi task with the operation of equipment and ...

Machine Operator II, Glass

Richmond, VA

$16.75 - $20/hr

Machine Operator II - Glass Work Schedule: 1st shift Location: P2 - Richmond, VA What we're looking ... Basic Preventative Maintenance. * Ability to multi task with the operation of equipment and ...

Machine Operator II, Glass

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator II - Glass Work Schedule: 1st shift Location: P2 - Richmond, VA What we're looking ... Basic Preventative Maintenance. * Ability to multi task with the operation of equipment and ...

Machine Operator

Lynchburg, VA ยท On-site

$17/hr

The Wind Operator is responsible for the initial stage of the production process by setting up and ... Ability to troubleshoot equipment issues and perform basic mechanical adjustments as needed

Machine Operator

Roanoke, VA ยท On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

... machine for the start of production and oversees daily operation in compliance with safe operating ... knowledge of basic arithmetic functions (multiplication, division, addition, subtraction ...

Machine Operator

Lynchburg, VA ยท On-site

$17/hr

The Wind Operator is responsible for the initial stage of the production process by setting up and ... Ability to troubleshoot equipment issues and perform basic mechanical adjustments as needed

Machine Operator

Lynchburg, VA ยท On-site

$17/hr

The Wind Operator is responsible for the initial stage of the production process by setting up and ... Ability to troubleshoot equipment issues and perform basic mechanical adjustments as needed

Machine Operator I

Colonial Heights, VA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Perform basic and advanced operator preventative maintenance tasks. Operate and/or use related machinery, equipment, and tools necessary to complete assembly / parts fabrication to specifications ...

Machine Operator I

Colonial Heights, VA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Perform basic and advanced operator preventative maintenance tasks. Operate and/or use related machinery, equipment, and tools necessary to complete assembly / parts fabrication to specifications ...

Machine Operator I

Colonial Heights, VA

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Perform basic and advanced operator preventative maintenance tasks. Operate and/or use related machinery, equipment, and tools necessary to complete assembly / parts fabrication to specifications ...

Machine Operator I

South Chesterfield, VA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Perform basic and advanced operator preventative maintenance tasks. Operate and/or use related machinery, equipment, and tools necessary to complete assembly / parts fabrication to specifications ...

Machine Operator I

South Chesterfield, VA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Perform basic and advanced operator preventative maintenance tasks. Operate and/or use related machinery, equipment, and tools necessary to complete assembly / parts fabrication to specifications ...

Machine Operator I

Colonial Heights, VA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Perform basic and advanced operator preventative maintenance tasks. Operate and/or use related machinery, equipment, and tools necessary to complete assembly / parts fabrication to specifications ...

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Showing results 1-20

Basic Machine Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do basic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for basic machine operator in Virginia is $18.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a basic machine operator?

A basic machine operator is a worker responsible for operating and monitoring manufacturing or processing machinery, often in factories or production plants. They typically follow safety protocols, perform routine maintenance, and may need to understand technical instructions or use tools like control panels. Basic skills in math, attention to detail, and sometimes a high school diploma or certification are required.

What is the difference between Basic Machine Operator vs Industrial Machine Operator?

AspectBasic Machine OperatorIndustrial Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, assembly linesHeavy manufacturing facilities, large-scale production plants
Job ScopeOperate basic machinery, perform routine tasksOperate complex machinery, oversee production processes

Basic Machine Operators and Industrial Machine Operators both work in manufacturing environments, often requiring similar certifications and working in factories. However, Industrial Machine Operators typically handle more complex equipment and have a broader scope of responsibilities. The choice depends on the complexity of machinery and level of responsibility required.

What are common machine operator job titles?

Common machine operator job titles include Production Operator, Manufacturing Operator, Equipment Operator, CNC Operator, and Assembly Line Worker. These roles typically require knowledge of machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications or training in specific equipment or processes.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Some high-paying jobs for a Basic Machine Operator or similar roles can reach $700 a day, especially with overtime, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries like manufacturing, construction, or oil and gas. These roles often require experience, certifications, or working in remote or hazardous environments, and pay varies based on location and employer policies.

How much do beginner operators make?

Beginner machine operators typically earn between $12 and $18 per hour, depending on the industry, location, and required skills. Entry-level positions often require basic knowledge of machinery and safety protocols, with wages increasing with experience and certifications.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Basic Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Basic Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Basic Machine Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,502 per year, or $18 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Acara Solutions

Richmond, VA โ€ข On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Machine Operator
Location: Richmond, VA
Employment Type: Temp to Direct
Industry: Industrial Machinery Manufacturing
Compensation: $23.00 - $27.00/Hour
Schedule: 40 Hours/Week
About the Opportunity:
  • Operate metal forming equipment to manufacture high-quality components in a fast-paced production environment.
  • Set up tooling and machines using blueprints and production routing information.
  • Support equipment reliability and process improvements through maintenance and continuous improvement initiatives.
Why You'll Love Working Here:
  • Supportive, team-driven culture that values collaboration, transparency, and accountability.
  • Opportunity to grow your career with a global workforce solutions leader serving multiple industries.
  • People-first environment that encourages employees to bring their authentic selves to work.
  • Strong focus on partnership, innovation, and delivering meaningful results for clients and candidates.
Why This Opportunity is Exciting:
This role offers the chance to join a company that prioritises both people and performance-where your contributions directly impact client success while giving you room to grow and develop professionally.
About Acara Solutions
Acara is a premier recruiting and workforce solutions provider-we help companies compete for talent. With a legacy of experience in various industries worldwide, we partner with clients, listen to their needs, and customize visionary talent solutions that drive desired business outcomes. We leverage decades of experience to deliver contingent staffing, direct placement, executive search, and workforce services worldwide.
Sound like a good fit?
APPLY TODAY
What You'll Do:
  • Set up and operate metal forming and metalworking equipment.
  • Produce parts that meet quality, efficiency, and production standards.
  • Interpret blueprints and routing instructions to configure machines and tooling.
  • Perform machine changeovers and equipment adjustments as needed.
  • Complete daily preventative maintenance activities on production equipment.
  • Inspect finished parts to ensure compliance with specifications.
  • Participate in safety, quality, and productivity improvement initiatives.
  • Collaborate with team members to enhance processes and extend tooling life.

What You'll Bring:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 2+ years of experience working with mechanical equipment
  • 2+ years of machine operating experience
  • 2+ years of Mechanical troubleshooting experience
What Sets You Apart:
  • Manufacturing experience
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Candidates who work on vehicles, equipment, or machinery
  • Ability to identify and resolve operational issues
  • Looking for individuals who can think critically and solve problems independently
  • Proven mechanical aptitude
  • Ability to use measuring devices (calipers, tape measures, etc.)
  • Ability to do addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division in both fractions and decimals
  • Team player interested in improving the overall performance of the equipment and the team.
Additional Information:
  • Upon offer of employment, the individual will be subject to a background check.
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds

After you apply, you may receive a call or message from our AI Talent Scout about this role or other opportunities that match your skills and preferences. AI agent role is to help speed up your hiring process by answering questions, confirming basic information, and identifying whether there's a mutual fit.

The call or chat may be recorded so that our recruiting team can review it - they make all final hiring decisions, while AI agent simply helps move you forward faster. The best part? They are available 24/7, so you can connect whenever it's convenient for you.

Aleron companies (Acara Solutions, Aleron Shared Resources, Broadleaf Results, Lume Strategies, TalentRise, Viaduct) are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Race/Color/Gender/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Veteran.

Applicants for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position does not meet the employment requirements for individuals with F-1 OPT STEM work authorization status.

Acara Solutions logo

About Acara Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Acara Solutions, based in Buffalo, NY, is a premier provider of recruitment and workforce solutions. Serving the industry since its inception in 1957, the company has expanded its roots from a small family-owned employment agency to a leading international recruitment agency. Acara provides staffing solutions to a myriad of industries including Engineering, IT, Professional, Industrial and Finance. They offer an array of services from strategic workforce management, talent acquisition, vendor management systems, to executive search services. Driven by the core values of dedication, integrity, teamwork and innovation, Acara exists with the mission to connect job seekers with leading employers while fostering growth and innovation in the industries they serve. A prominent player in the US staffing industry, Acara Solutions has been recognized multiple times on the Staffing Industry Analysts List of Largest US Staffing Firms.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Buffalo, NY, US

Year founded

1957