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Basic Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Ashland, VA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Machine Operator As a Machine Operator, you will operate slitter machines to cut foil rolls to ... Mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting skills. * Ability to interpret job specs and quality ...

Machine Operator

Salem, VA · 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 · On-site

$21.71 - $27/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 · On-site

$21.71 - $27/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 · 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

North Chesterfield, VA

$16.75 - $20/hr

Job Title: Machine Operator/ Chemical Technician This role focuses on the safe, efficient, and ... Strong basic math skills to measure, track, and monitor plant data, including batching, calibration ...

Machine Operator

Roanoke, VA · 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

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$32K - $38K/yr

Ability to perform basic math to support various job responsibilities. Experience that would be ... operating production machinery and performing routine maintenance. * Experience with warehouse ...

Ability to perform basic math to support various job responsibilities. Experience that would be ... operating production machinery and performing routine maintenance. * Experience with warehouse ...

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Machine Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Machine Operator Location: 5900 Eastport Blvd Richmond, VA 23231 Duration: 8 months with possible extension Shifts: 1st and 2nd Shift (7AM-3:30PM) & (3PM-11:30PM) Pay: $19/hr or $22/hr Basic Function:

Machine Operator I

South Chesterfield, VA · 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 · 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 · 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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Basic Machine Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do basic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 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 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 is a basic machine operator?

A basic machine operator is responsible for operating and monitoring manufacturing equipment, such as presses, lathes, or conveyor systems, to produce goods efficiently and safely. They typically follow safety protocols, perform routine maintenance, and may need to have basic technical skills or certifications depending on the industry. The role often involves working in a manufacturing or production environment with a focus on quality and safety standards.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,502 per year, or $18 per hour.

GENERAL FABRICATION-MACHINE OPERATOR

Danville, VA • On-site

ENTWISTLE COMPANY
Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees

$18 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


The Entwistle Company rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description:

Job Overview


The Entwistle Company is seeking a skilled and motivated General Fabrication – Machine Operator to build a long-term career in our collaborative and innovative environment.

In this role, you’ll help deliver mission-critical components that support U.S. and allied defense, with your skills, creativity, and impact directly contributing to national and global security. We value talent, encourage innovation, and promote professional growth.


Ready to make a real difference? Join us.


Our Mission Statement

  1. To be an essential provider of mission-critical defense components & systems, spanning air, land, sea and space, recognized for our specialized capabilities, quality and dependability.
  2. To design, manufacture & build-to-print innovative and cost-effective products.
  3. To help our DoD, Prime and Foreign Military customers and US warfighter succeed in their missions.

At The Entwistle Company, our values—Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Commitment—guide everything we do, from daily decisions to long-term strategy.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate various hydraulic and/or CNC machinery to shape metal or complete basic machining operations
  • Inspect parts using CNC equipment and a variety of tools to ensure tolerances are met
  • Use hand tools when necessary for fabrication or assembly
  • Safely operate forklifts and overhead cranes to move pieces throughout the plant
  • Maintain a clean and safe working environment

What We Offer:

  • 401k – 4% match on 5% deferrals
  • PTO – Up to 5 weeks
  • Employer Paid Life Insurance
  • Employer Paid Short-term Disability
  • Generous Health Insurance Coverage
  • Dental Insurance
  • Safety Shoes & Glasses reimbursements
  • Employee Appreciation Events

Competitive pay based on experience.


Requirements:

Qualifications:

  • 1+ years of experience in manufacturing or machine operation; or equivalent technical training
  • Ability to read blueprints and work instructions
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work within a team environment
  • Ability to multi-task and manage changing priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to climb, squat, and stand for long periods. Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.

Related Military Job Codes: We value military experience and recognize transferable skills. Candidates with the following military job codes or similar may have relevant experience for this position:

  • Army MOS: 91E – Allied Trade Specialist
  • Navy NEC: MK – Machinist’s Mate
  • Air Force AFSC: 2A7X1 – Aircraft Metals Technology
  • Marine Corps MOS: 2161 - Machinist
  • Coast Guard Rating: MK – Machinery Technician

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