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Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Elizabeth, NJ

Asplundh

Bucket Operator - Union - NTS

Piscataway, NJ · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

High School Diploma or equivalent preferred. * Entry-level position, no experience required ... Works around excessive noise from machines, jackhammers, gas drills, and other equipment with ...

OFI

Sanitation Team Member

Bayonne, NJ · On-site

$17.65/hr

Non-Exempt Experience: Entry level Safety Sensitive: Yes We are a global leader in food & beverage ... Following all Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP) for each machine and piece of ...

OFI

Sanitation Team Member

Bayonne, NJ

$17.65/hr

Non-Exempt Experience: Entry level Safety Sensitive: Yes We are a global leader in food & beverage ... Following all Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOP) for each machine and piece of ...

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Entry Level Machine Operator information

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

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level machine operator in Elizabeth, NJ is $17.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $19.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level machine operator do?

An entry level machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring manufacturing machinery to produce parts or products. They perform routine inspections, follow safety protocols, and may need basic technical skills or certifications to ensure efficient and safe operation in a manufacturing environment.

What is an Entry Level Machine Operator job?

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 in the Entry Level Machine Operator position, and why are they important?

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 get started as a machine operator?

To start as a machine operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and gain basic technical skills. Completing on-the-job training or certification programs can improve job prospects, and familiarity with machinery and safety procedures is essential for success in this role.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry level machine operator jobs typically require some training or certification but may not require prior experience. Employers often provide on-the-job training and look for basic skills, safety awareness, and the ability to learn equipment operation. Gaining relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training or equipment-specific licenses, can improve chances of employment without experience.

What job pays the most at entry level?

Entry-level machine operator positions typically offer moderate wages compared to other entry-level roles. Higher-paying entry-level jobs often include roles in technology, sales, or specialized trades that may require certifications or technical skills. Wages vary by industry, location, and company, but technical roles generally tend to pay more initially than general labor positions.
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Elizabeth, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Elizabeth, NJ are:
What cities near Elizabeth, NJ are hiring for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Elizabeth, NJ with the most Entry Level Machine Operator job openings:
Entry Level Machine Operator jobs near you
Manufacturing Operator I

Manufacturing Operator I

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries

New Brunswick, NJ • On-site

$20 - $21.84/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Sun Pharma is the world's fourth largest generics company with presence in Specialty, Generics and Consumer Healthcare products. Supported by more than 40 manufacturing facilities, we provide high-quality medicines, trusted by healthcare professionals and patients, to more than 100 countries across the globe. Over the last two decades, Sun Pharma has established itself as a leading player in the generics market in the U.S., and we are rapidly ramping up our presence in the specialty branded market with a focus on dermatology, ophthalmology and onco-dermatology
Job Summary:
Performs functions relating to the processing of drug products; consistent with established Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), customer requirements and in conjunction with all Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). Responsible for the safe and efficient execution of their job duties, while ensuring product compliance to established standards.
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 3:15pm to 11:45pm
Area Of Responsibility:
  • Under Extensive Supervision:
      • Operate equipment for one production process Glatt fluid bed processor, Granulation, Blending, Compression, Coating, Imprinting, Banding and Encapsulation.
      • Perform machine changeovers, cleaning, & set up as required.
      • Troubleshoot and make appropriate adjustments to maintain production specifications.
  • Ensure adherence to quality standards during the manufacturing process.
  • Complete manufacturing documents, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
  • Maintain compliance at all times with appropriate SOP's and cGMP's.
  • Perform duties through proper, safe use of equipment following all OSHA regulations and Equipment Manuals.

Work Conditions:
Environmental related to manufacturing/production environments:
  • Noise: Sufficient noise, either constant or intermittent, to cause marked distraction or possible injury to sense of hearing.
  • Fumes: Smoky or vaporous emissions, usually odorous, thrown off as the result of combustion or chemical reaction.
  • Odors: Unpleasant smells.
  • Gases: Examples include carbon monoxide and ozone.
  • Dust: Airborne particles of any kind, such as textile dust, wood, and silica.
  • Hazards: Conditions where there is danger to life, health or bodily injury such as closeness to moving mechanical parts; working on scaffolding and high places; exposure to burns, radiant energy, explosives, toxic chemicals, and electric shock.

Physical Requirements:
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.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to handle and feel and talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, push, and bend.
  • Must be capable of bending and lifting, moving and/or carrying up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to navigate office, lab, and/or plant floor working environments, stands, ambulates, and reaches.
  • Must have the ability to wear applicable personal protective equipment utilized at the site, including but not limited to respirators, safety glasses/goggles, and safety shoes.

Travel Estimate: Up to 0%
Education and Job Qualification:
  • Minimum of High School/Trade School/Vocational School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.
  • Forklift or other related equipment certification preferred.
  • Basic Troubleshooting skills.
  • Basic knowledge of cGMP and other pharmaceutical regulatory requirements.
  • Basic knowledge of Occupational Health & Safety procedures.
  • Good Math and Computer Skills including MS Office and some experience with SAP preferred.
  • Good Interpersonal skills.
  • Good communication skills.
  • The requirement for English language proficiency for this job role is Basic - A2 (comparable to Global CEFR Basic A2) level based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Experience:
  • Entry level position, previous experience not required.

The presently-anticipated base compensation pay range for this position is $20.00/hr to $21.84/hr. Actual base compensation may vary based on a number of factors, including but not limited to geographical location and experience. In addition, this position is part of the Annual Performance Bonus Plan, and may be eligible for the Long Term Incentive Plan. Employees are eligible to participate in Company employee benefit programs which include medical, dental and vision coverage; life insurance; disability insurance; 401(k) savings plan; flexible spending accounts; and the employee assistance program. Employees also receive various paid time off benefits, including vacation time and sick time.
The compensation and benefits described above are subject to the terms and conditions of any governing plans, policies, practices, agreements, or other materials or documents as in effect from time to time, including but not limited to terms and conditions regarding eligibility. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company, or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees as assigned to this job. Nothing herein shall preclude the employer from changing these duties from time to time and assigning comparable duties or other duties commensurate with the experience and background of the incumbent(s).
We provide equal employment opportunities for all current employees and applicants for employment. This policy means that no one will be discriminated against because of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, nationality, citizenship, ancestry, sex, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, affectional or sexual orientation, military or veteran status, generic predisposing characteristics or any other basis prohibited by law.
Notice to Agency and Search Firm Representatives:
Sun Pharmaceuticals (Sun) is not accepting unsolicited resumes from agencies and/or search firms for this job posting. Resumes submitted to any Sun employee by a third party agency and/or search firm without a valid written & signed search agreement, will become the sole property of Sun. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired for this position as a result of an unsolicited agency or search firm referral.

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