ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Certified Machine Operator Jobs in Washington, DC

District Photo Inc

Laminator Machine Operator I

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking a Laminator Machine Operator 1 in our Beltsville factory Position Summary District ... Forklift certification is a plus. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities The successful candidate will ...

DISTRICT PHOTO INC

Laminator Machine Operator I

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking a Laminator Machine Operator 1 in our Beltsville factory Position Summary District ... Forklift certification is a plus. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities The successful candidate will ...

Nielsen

Mail Machine Operator II

Hanover, MD · On-site

$17 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mail Machine Operator II Performs routine and moderately complex tasks within established ... certifications, and business needs. Beyond base salary, this role may be eligible for bonuses ...

The Nielsen Company

Mail Machine Operator II

Hanover, MD

$17 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate manufacturing or processing machinery in accordance with safety and quality standards ... certifications, and business needs. Beyond base salary, this role may be eligible for bonuses ...

The Nielsen Company

Mail Machine Operator II

Hanover, MD

$17 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate manufacturing or processing machinery in accordance with safety and quality standards ... certifications, and business needs. Beyond base salary, this role may be eligible for bonuses ...

The Nielsen Company

Mail Machine Operator II

Hanover, MD · On-site

$38K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate manufacturing or processing machinery in accordance with safety and quality standards ... certifications, and business needs. Beyond base salary, this role may be eligible for bonuses ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCertified Machine Operator JobsCertified Machine Operator Jobs in Washington, DC

Certified Machine Operator information

See Washington, DC salary details

$13

$20

$26

How much do certified machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified machine operator in Washington, DC is $20.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it worth becoming a certified machine operator?

Becoming a certified machine operator can improve job prospects, increase earning potential, and demonstrate proficiency with equipment and safety standards. Certification often requires passing exams and gaining hands-on experience, which can make candidates more competitive in the job market.

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 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.

How to get certified as a certified machine operator?

To become a certified machine operator, you typically need to complete a training program or apprenticeship that covers safety procedures, equipment operation, and maintenance. Many employers require certification from industry-recognized organizations or passing a skills assessment, and some regions may have specific licensing requirements.

What is a certified machine operator?

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 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 popular job titles related to Certified Machine Operator jobs in Washington, DC?

For Certified Machine Operator jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Certified Machine Operator jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Certified Machine Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

Certified Machine Operator jobs near you

Laminator Machine Operator I

District Photo Inc

Beltsville, MD • On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

At District Photo, our employees are the heart of our company. We are seeking a Laminator Machine Operator 1 in our Beltsville factory
Position Summary
District Photo is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Laminator Machine Operator to join our Production team in Beltsville, Maryland. This position is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining industrial laminating and finishing equipment to produce high-quality printed products that meet customer specifications.
The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, enjoys working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, and is committed to safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Experience operating laminators, printing, converting, bindery, or other automated manufacturing equipment is preferred but not required-we are willing to train the right individual.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Efficiently perform machine setup, startups, changeovers, operation, and shutdowns following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and production schedules.
  • Review job tickets and verify customer specifications before beginning production.
  • Load rolls of laminating material and other production supplies onto equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Monitor machine performance and make adjustments to maintain quality, productivity, and efficiency.
  • Perform routine quality inspections throughout production to identify defects and ensure finished products meet customer specifications.
  • Monitor hourly throughput, waste, and other key production metrics; prepare accurate production reports and operator logs.
  • Complete all required documentation, including production logs, efficiency reports, waste reports, and quality records.
  • Review hourly productivity and quality performance with supervisors and communicate any quality, safety, or production concerns promptly.
  • Troubleshoot minor equipment issues and work with Maintenance to resolve mechanical problems.
  • Perform routine cleaning and preventive maintenance to keep equipment operating safely and efficiently.
  • Maintain compliance with ISO quality procedures, customer specifications, and all company safety standards.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment using 5S and good housekeeping practices.
  • Cross-train on additional production equipment and assist other departments as production needs require.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives that reduce waste, improve efficiency, and enhance product quality.
  • Assist in training new operators when requested.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits
401K, paid vacation, paid holidays, sick and safe leave, life insurance, medical, dental, vision, and short/long term disability benefits.
Culture
At DPI, our success is powered by our people and its client's satisfaction ratings. Our culture allows employees to be engaged, empowered, and rewarded. We are a diverse and inclusive company who seeks to expand our brand by hiring collaborative individuals who think outside of the box. We are committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all of our employees and visitors. Check Us Out
Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
  • HighSchool Diploma or GED.
  • Basic reading, writing, and math skills.
  • Basic understanding of manufacturing or production processes.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Comfortable using computers to enter production information and complete reports.
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality.

Preferred Qualifications
  • One or more years of experience operating manufacturing, printing, laminating, converting, packaging, bindery, or finishing equipment.
  • Experience with machine setup, changeovers, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance.
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to diagnose routine equipment issues.
  • Experience working in a Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement environment.
  • Forklift certification is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
  • Strong ownership and accountability.
  • Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced production environment.
  • Willingness to learn new equipment and production processes.
  • Ability to adapt quickly to changing production priorities.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills.
  • Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
  • Frequently lift, push, pull, or move materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Frequent bending, twisting, reaching, grasping, and repetitive hand movements.
  • Ability to safely operate automated manufacturing equipment.
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, and flexible schedules during peak production periods.

District Photo Inc.
Founded in 1949 by Melvin Cohen as a small black & white photo lab, the business grew during the last half of the 20th century into a large wholesale photofinishing lab serving mid-Atlantic retailers and a national mail order film business. In the late 1990's under Neil Cohen's leadership, DPI acquired a photo business in the UK and has transitioned from a mid-Atlantic film developing lab to multiple state-of-the-art digital labs shipping millions of photos worldwide every day.
Today, District is one of the largest variable data printing companies in the world as their facilities comprise over a million square feet of manufacturing space with a global reach that sets them apart in the digital printing market. With 7 production fulfillment facilities located in the United States (MD, PA, KY, AZ), England, the Czech Republic & Australia, District Photo is the leader in creating photo-based products as they deliver millions of prints, greeting cards, books, calendars, blankets, mugs, and other gift items yearly.
Dept# XXXX

Apply