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Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in South Carolina

Elite Quartz MFG LLC

Line Operator III (LOIII)

Latta, SC

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Responsible for cleanliness & housekeeping of the production machinery and surrounding area. Start ... entry-level production positions to fill in as needed during vacation, absences, and increased ...

Elite Quartz MFG LLC

Line Operator III (LOIII)

Latta, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

... machinery and surrounding area. • Start up, operate, and shut down production line and all ... entry-level production positions to fill in as needed during vacation, absences, and increased ...

Vermeer Corporation

Machinist

Piedmont, SC · On-site

$24.59 - $27.13/hr

... and finished products, operating overhead/jib cranes and hoists, and following rigging ... What We're Looking For - Entry-level machining experience or formal training (technical school ...

Vermeer Corporation

Machinist

Piedmont, SC · On-site

$24.59 - $27.13/hr

... and finished products, operating overhead/jib cranes and hoists, and following rigging ... What We're Looking For - Entry-level machining experience or formal training (technical school ...

Openwork

Sewer

Simpsonville, SC

$16/hr

Openwork is currently seeking dependable, detail-oriented individuals for an Entry-Level Sewer ... Operating a sewing machine to assemble industrial strap materials * Measuring materials accurately ...

VIPworkforce.com

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Heavy Equipment Operator/Bobcat, Skid Steer

Duncan, SC · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... Bobcat and Skid Steer machinery. This role offers on-site training, making it perfect for ... Monday-Friday 7:30am-5:00pm Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in heavy equipment ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator Jobs in South Carolina

Entry Level Machine Operator information

See South Carolina salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do entry level machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level machine operator in South Carolina is $16.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $17.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level machine operator?

An Entry Level Machine Operator is responsible for running and monitoring machinery in a manufacturing or production setting. They ensure machines operate efficiently, perform basic maintenance, and inspect products for quality. Training is typically provided on-site, and the role requires attention to detail and the ability to follow safety guidelines. This position is ideal for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in a technical or industrial field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level machine operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Machine Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes basic computer or measurement tools, such as calipers, is often required. Strong work ethic, reliability, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help you adapt and excel in fast-paced environments. These skills ensure the operator can safely and efficiently produce quality products while minimizing downtime or errors.

What does a typical workday look like for an entry level machine operator?

A typical day for an entry level machine operator involves setting up and monitoring machines, inspecting products for quality, and troubleshooting minor issues that may arise during production. You’ll likely work alongside a team of operators and supervisors, following established schedules and safety procedures to ensure smooth operations on the manufacturing floor. Collaboration is often necessary for resolving problems or improving workflow, and you may be cross-trained on different equipment over time. This hands-on experience provides a strong foundation for future advancement into specialized or supervisory roles.

How to become an entry level machine operator with no experience?

To become an entry-level machine operator, focus on gaining basic technical skills, such as understanding machinery and safety procedures. Completing a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, and some employers offer on-the-job training or certification programs to develop necessary skills.

How to get started as an entry level machine operator?

To start as an entry-level machine operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and gain basic technical skills. Many employers provide on-the-job training, but having familiarity with machinery, safety procedures, and basic math can be beneficial. Certifications in equipment operation or safety standards can improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in South Carolina?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in South Carolina are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in South Carolina?

For Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in South Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in South Carolina look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in South Carolina are:

What cities in South Carolina are hiring for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in South Carolina with the most Entry Level Machine Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in SC?

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Entry Level Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Machine Operator job openings in South Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,710 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Hard Machining Operator-Union, South Carolina

Lovejoy Curtis LLC

Enoree, SC

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

What Timken makes possible begins with you.
Those who came before us helped land a man on the moon, create the world's infrastructure, and introduce renewable energy alternatives. Now you can join the Timken team to write your own unique story and help drive what's next.
A career at Timken means you can have an immediate impact doing Work That Matters to the world- improving the efficiency of today's industrial equipment and preparing for the future of motion on our planet and beyond. New employees can start contributing right away, and there are many opportunities to advance your career at your own pace. Join our global team of 19,000 people in 45 countries, and start helping our customers push the limits of what's possible in their world of motion.
Position Summary:
Efficiently perform all operations on the various grinding and hard-machining equipment.
Essential Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for procurement and use of proper gauges and maintaining quality requirements that meet or exceed customer drawing specifications, both written and understood.
  • Will be required to produce parts to a level that is acceptable when compared to standard pieces per hour as designated on routings.
  • Responsible for daily lubrication and maintenance of machine and other duties such as wheel dressing and machine setup to keep parts within tolerance and finish specifications.
  • Perform all necessary loading and unloading of machine; procure and properly utilize setup material; synchronize manual and automatic operations while grinding or turning and allow for temperature changes.
  • Interpret and follow drawings, instructions, routings, and specifications; install and maintain proper grinding wheels; or inserts, set up and operate at proper and/or prescribed feeds and speeds.
  • Will operate all grinding and turning machines - must be multi-skilled.
  • Responsible for preventive maintenance and maintaining inventory of tooling and inserts.
  • Responsible for proper care of company tools, observance of safety regulations, and correct reporting of time and production.
  • Responsible for maintaining equipment in good working order and maintaining a neat & orderly work area.

Basic Qualifications:
  • 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be eligible to work in the US.
  • Must be willing to work overtime.
  • Must be willing to work any shift.
  • Ability to use shop mathematics.
  • Ability to interpret a variety of prints.
  • Ability to plan and perform unusual & difficult work.
  • Ability to make decisions that involve considerable judgment.
  • Must be willing to work on any Grinder or Machining asset.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills:
  • Previous ID or OD grinding experience in a bearing manufacturing environment.
  • Previous hard machining experience in a bearing manufacturing environment.
  • Precision gauging/inspection experience.

All qualified applicants shall be treated equally according to their individual qualifications, abilities, experiences and other employment standards. There will be no discrimination due to gender or gender identity, race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, sexual orientation, veteran/military status or any other basis protected by applicable law.
Timken is a global technology leader in engineered bearings and industrial motion. Our expanding portfolio of next-generation solutions helps customers around the world improve efficiency, solve their toughest challenges, and push the boundaries of performance. We employ 19,000 people globally, operate from 45 countries, and posted $4.6 billion in sales in 2025.
We have been recognized as one of America's Most Responsible Companies 6x by Newsweek and one of the World's Most Ethical Companies® 15x by Ethisphere.
Why Choose Timken?
  • Over a century of knowledge and innovation
  • A culture of top performance
  • A global, diverse environment
  • Products that contribute to a sustainable world
  • A conviction to improve communities around us
  • Competitive salary and benefits

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