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Certified Machine Operator Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Operator

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

This position should be experienced with one of the following machine configurations: Andritz ... Forklift certification, utility knife, strapping tool, hand shear, nailer, hammer, circular saw ...

Operator

Alpharetta, GA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

This position should be experienced with one of the following machine configurations: Andritz ... Forklift certification, utility knife, strapping tool, hand shear, nailer, hammer, circular saw ...

Forklift Operator

Lithonia, GA

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Areas of Focus Ensure machine operator have required materials always. Meet suppliers to receive ... Forklift Driver Certificate * Understand specifications and labels associated with hazardous ...

Operator

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

This position should be experienced with one of the following machine configurations: Andritz ... Forklift certification, utility knife, strapping tool, hand shear, nailer, hammer, circular saw ...

Forklift Operator

Lithonia, GA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Areas of Focus Ensure machine operator have required materials always. Meet suppliers to receive ... Forklift Driver Certificate • Understand specifications and labels associated with hazardous ...

Forklift Operator

Lithonia, GA

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Areas of Focus Ensure machine operator have required materials always. Meet suppliers to receive ... Forklift Driver Certificate • Understand specifications and labels associated with hazardous ...

Routing, CNC machine operator and cutting experience is a must. This role will be night shift 6pm ... Must complete the Miller Zell Forklift Certification program and obtain a valid Miller Zell ...

Routing, CNC machine operator and cutting experience is a must. This role will be night shift 6pm ... Must complete the Miller Zell Forklift Certification program and obtain a valid Miller Zell ...

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Certified Machine Operator information

See Decatur, GA salary details

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How much do certified machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified machine operator in Decatur, GA is $17.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Certified Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent along with relevant machine operation certifications. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and experience using quality control systems or CNC equipment are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to communicate clearly help operators stand out in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient production and contribute to consistent product quality in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges Certified Machine Operators face during a typical shift?

Certified Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent production quality under tight deadlines, and adhering to strict safety protocols in a fast-paced environment. Working with complex machinery requires constant attention to detail and quick problem-solving skills. Collaborating with maintenance teams and supervisors is essential to minimize downtime and ensure smooth production flow, so strong communication skills are also important in overcoming daily obstacles.

What are Certified Machine Operators?

Certified Machine Operators are skilled workers who have received specialized training and certification to operate industrial machines safely and efficiently. They are responsible for setting up, running, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing or production environments. Certification usually involves passing a training course or exam to demonstrate competence in machine operation, safety protocols, and troubleshooting. Employers often prefer certified operators because they reduce the risk of accidents and improve production quality.

What is the highest paid machine operator?

The highest paid machine operators are often those with specialized skills, such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine operators, or those working in high-demand industries like aerospace or oil and gas. Experienced operators with certifications and extensive technical knowledge can earn higher salaries, sometimes exceeding $70,000 annually depending on location and industry.

What is the difference between Certified Machine Operator vs Machine Technician?

AspectCertified Machine OperatorMachine Technician
CertificationsOften requires specific machine operation certificationsRequires technical certifications or technical school training
Work EnvironmentOperates machinery on production lines, factoriesPerforms maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs on machinery
Employer & IndustryManufacturing, industrial plantsManufacturing, maintenance services, industrial facilities
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that Certified Machine Operators focus on operating machinery according to safety and quality standards, while Machine Technicians handle maintenance and repairs. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, but they require different skill sets and certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Certified Machine Operator jobs in Decatur, GA? For Certified Machine Operator jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Certified Machine Operator jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Certified Machine Operator jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Certified Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Certified Machine Operator job openings:
Operator

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Samuel, Son & Co. rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 511 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Description
Schedule: 1st Shift! Monday - Friday 6:00am - 2:30pm with possible OT (on Saturdays)
At Samuel, we believe every team member brings unique and valuable skills, experiences and knowledge to our thriving business - enabling us to build on over 167 years of success in the metals industry.
Here are some of the great benefits that we offer:
• Competitive wages
• Company paid health and dental benefits
• Paid vacation
• Defined 401(k) Plan with company match
• Opportunity for career stability and growth
• Tuition reimbursement program
Summary & Scope
To ensure that product processed on the Cut to Length Line (CTL) has been performed in a safe, efficient and quality manner. This position has the overall responsibility of the CTL and how it operates /runs, but primarily, or specifically, the function of the leveler, product covering, shear operations and the respective paperwork involved with processing product. This position either assists, or provides the guidance and direction for all the other functions of the line, coil transfer, un-coiler, stacker and packaging areas.
This position should be experienced with one of the following machine configurations: Andritz, HerrVoss, Redbud, Rowe, Stamco, and or Vigano
Responsibilities:
  • Review material processing paperwork and oversee the retrieval and staging of material to be ran on the CTL; this same paperwork will also generate the required PVC / covering and pallets (paperwork system based on AS400)
  • Starting with coils, ensure their staging is in order, coils are transferred to the scale for weight/ thickness confirmation, loaded on the transfer cart and then mounted onto the un-coiler mandrel (to this point a separate control stand is used for the coil mounting)
  • Coordinate material feed into the leveler for flattening, then the PVC or paper interleaf (as required) are started and the material is fed into the shear. (all of these functions through the shear and then the exit conveyors to the stacker are all controlled with a second, main, control panel)
  • Based on the material order paperwork, process material through the leveler and shear constantly observing for any irregularities, both functional and from a quality perspective.
  • On a coil by coil basis, the CTL machine operator will measure length and squareness of product as dictated by either customer requirements and or standards (the thickness of the material, at this point, has already been measured, confirmed and recorded via the coil mounting process)
  • As part of the material processing, the leading edge of the coil and again with the trailing edge will be evaluated for flatness and processed accordingly for scrap as will other issues encountered as the material is being processed
  • Oversee the pallet build list and that the proper pallets are either staged and or built (as required) to enable the material to be palletized based on customer orders (Currently several customers have special requirements for their material and those requirements must be reviewed and adhered to with no deviation unless approved prior to processing)
  • Once the material has been processed and palletized, the CTL machine operator is responsible to adhere the appropriate labels on the pallets as generated by the paperwork from the AS400 and update the material / order information in AS400
  • Based on needs of the business, will be requested to work in other areas of the facility to support customer demand issues
  • Any and all non-conformances with material / packaging items, or abnormalities with equipment function(s) are to be reported immediately to Supervision
  • Ensure a safe, clean working environment
  • Support other operator(s) with general duties associated with the line / equipment
  • Maintain a good work atmosphere
  • Adhere to all health and safety rules / regulations

Role Requirements:
  • Basic, general understanding of company and customer specific requirements for material quality and ISO certification. Must be proficient in the use of tape measures and taper / feeler gauges.
  • Minimum of 2 years' experience running a cut to length line.
  • High School education and or equivalent (GED).
  • 2-5 years' experience in a manufacturing environment (minimum of 2 years required)

Equipment Knowledge:
  • Forklift certification, utility knife, strapping tool, hand shear, nailer, hammer, circular saw, saws-all, miter / chop saw

Physical Demands:
Standing for long periods of time.
  • Bending, stooping, and pushing
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs (22.7kg) maximum occasionally with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 lbs (11.3kg).

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work Environment:
  • Varies including indoor and outdoor settings such as warehouses, storage yards, or production areas

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
SAMOMM
About Us
At Samuel, we believe every team member brings unique and valuable skills, experiences and knowledge to our thriving business - enabling us to build on over 170 years of success in the metals industry. We offer countless opportunities for our team members to develop and grow in their careers, empower them to make decisions on the job and be a part of driving positive change - within our organization and in the communities where we live and work. If you're seeking a dynamic, supportive and welcoming workplace to make your mark and grow your career, we have the programs, culture and opportunities to make it happen. We're stronger together.
At Samuel we believe in a culture of equality. Respect and integrity are at our core. We are committed to building and creating an environment that is open and welcoming for everyone.
This job posting is for an existing vacancy within the organization
Samuel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In the United States, we utilize E-Verify.
About the Team
At Samuel, meeting our customer needs is our top priority. With cost-effective distribution and just-in-time delivery of metals and industrial products across North America, we ensure our customers get exactly what they need - any time, anywhere and from a single source. Our focus on value-added processing services and innovative supply chain solutions allow us to work closely with our customers, ensuring their products are on the market on time. Thanks to our integrated network of products and services supported by our in-house technical leaders and market experts, we are uniquely positioned to become your supplier of choice.

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