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Chief Machinery Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Lancaster, SC · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Chief Buildings is seeking a Machine Operator to join the Chief team. In this role, you will perform general machine operations including equipment setup, part processing, and final part inspection ...

Machine Operator

Rensselaer, IN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Chief Buildings is seeking a Machine Operator to join the Chief team. In this role, you will perform general machine operations including equipment setup, part processing, and final part inspection ...

Machine Operator/CMO

Reading, PA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Operating machinery like our mills, micronizers, blenders and packaging equipment to mix, reduce, finish and package materials * Taking samples at various stages and conducting or assisting with ...

Machine Operator/CMO

Reading, PA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Operating machinery like our mills, micronizers, blenders and packaging equipment to mix, reduce, finish and package materials * Taking samples at various stages and conducting or assisting with ...

Commercial Employees is hiring Machine Operator positions for a leading manufacturer and ... by CEO Greg Madler in 2002. Over the last 20 years, Greg and his thoughtfully-trained team have ...

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Chief Machinery Operator information

See salary details

$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do chief machinery operator jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief machinery operator in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Chief Machinery Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of industrial machinery, mechanical aptitude, and relevant vocational or technical training. Familiarity with equipment-specific software, safety regulations, and certifications such as OSHA or machinery operation licenses is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, leadership, and effective communication skills help manage teams and respond quickly to operational challenges. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of complex machinery in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Chief Machinery Operators and how can they be addressed?

Chief Machinery Operators often encounter challenges such as coordinating a team with varying skill levels, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and troubleshooting mechanical issues under tight deadlines. To address these challenges, strong communication and leadership skills are essential for delegating tasks and training team members. Staying current with equipment maintenance schedules and fostering a culture of safety can help prevent accidents and improve efficiency. Regularly collaborating with maintenance staff and supervisors ensures smooth operations and quick resolution of technical problems.

What are Chief Machinery Operators?

Chief Machinery Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and safety of complex machinery in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or maritime operations. They supervise machine operators, troubleshoot equipment issues, and ensure compliance with safety standards and production goals. Their role often includes training staff, coordinating repairs, and optimizing machine performance to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Chief Machinery Operator vs Machinery Operator?

AspectChief Machinery OperatorMachinery Operator
CertificationsTypically requires specialized certifications and extensive experienceRequires standard machinery operation certifications
Work EnvironmentSupervises machinery operations, oversees safety and efficiencyOperates machinery under supervision, follows operational procedures
ResponsibilitiesLeadership, planning, and overseeing machinery tasksExecuting machinery operations as directed

The main difference between a Chief Machinery Operator and a Machinery Operator lies in their responsibilities and level of oversight. The Chief Machinery Operator holds supervisory roles, manages safety protocols, and oversees operations, while the Machinery Operator focuses on operating equipment under supervision. Both roles require relevant certifications, but the Chief Machinery Operator typically has more extensive experience and additional certifications.

More about Chief Machinery Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Chief Machinery Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.
Machine Operator

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Chief Industries rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Chief Buildings is seeking a Machine Operator to join the Chief team. In this role, you will perform general machine operations including equipment setup, part processing, and final part inspection on various assigned machines. You'll play a key role in maintaining production quality and efficiency. To be successful in this position, you should be detail-oriented, mechanically inclined, and committed to working safely in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • This Understand machine operation, capacity, and perform routine maintenance.
  • Ensure the overall quality and quantity of assigned work.
  • Accurately complete routine paperwork and enter data into a computer-based system.
  • Develop knowledge of layout procedures, complex setups, and tolerance adjustments.
  • Move materials as needed using overhead cranes and other lifting devices.

Education:
  • High School Diploma, or GED, preferred.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Responsible for creating a collaborative, safe and hazard-free environment that is driven by employee involvement. Other responsibilities include but are not limited to leading departmental continuous improvement projects, supporting and executing all safety and health policies and programs, employee training and incident investigations.
Shift:
  • 1st Shift - 6:00 AM - 4:30 PM

The Company:
Putting the needs of customers first has taken Chief Industries, Inc. from a small construction company in 1954, to a highly diverse company with a reputation for manufacturing quality products and offering unparalleled customer service. Through its many divisions and subsidiaries, Chief Industries employs over 1,400 skilled and dedicated employees who produce a wide variety of products, many of which are used around the world.
A brand of Chief Industries, Chief Buildings has designed and manufactured a wide variety of construction solutions for customers located throughout the United State since 1966. Specific applications include manufacturing, commercial, community and agricultural buildings. Each structure is designed to meet the needs of the customer. Chief Buildings are sold by authorized builders throughout the United States, and are manufactured in Grand Island, Nebraska, Rensselaer, Indiana and Lancaster, South Carolina.
Our Benefits:
This full-time position is eligible for full company benefits, including
  • Paid vacation/time off
  • 401(k) retirement plan plus company match
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Company-paid short-term disability benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Financial wellness coaching
  • Employee assistance program
  • Paid holidays (8)
  • Employee discounts
  • Education assistance
  • And much more.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.