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Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Henderson, KY

International Paper

Mill Entry Level

Henderson, KY

$24.57/hr

Monitoring, adjusting, and controlling operating equipment * Conducting tests and inspections of ... machinery or elevated working surfaces (with proper safety training and safety protection)

Freudenberg Group

Production Operator

Morganfield, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Operation of a single machine or a wide range of production equipment in accordance with work ... High school education or GED preferred Entry level position; 0-2 years' production or assembly ...

Freudenberg

Production Operator

Morganfield, KY

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Operation of a single machine or a wide range of production equipment in accordance with work ... High school education or GED preferred Entry level position; 0-2 years' production or assembly ...

BWXT

Entry Level Dimensional Inspector

Mount Vernon, IN · On-site

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Inspects the machine setups, surveys work piece, makes necessary corrections and approves the same ...

Gibbs Die Casting

Quality Technician 3rd Shift

Henderson, KY · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

If you are seeking an entry level position (CNC Line Operator, Trim Press Operator, Casting Press ... and machinery. * Safety is a top priority, and proper PPE is always required. Additional ...

DPAT

Automotive Technician

Evansville, IN · On-site

$150K/yr

We're hiring entry-level and those who are already enrolled and taking classes if you're interested ... The D-Patrick family of dealerships are all locally owned and operated. Our goal is to provide a ...

All JobsMachine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Henderson, KY

Entry Level Machine Operator information

See Henderson, KY salary details

$11

$15

$19

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

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level machine operator in Henderson, KY is $15.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $17.12 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Henderson, KY?

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

What cities near Henderson, KY are hiring for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Henderson, KY with the most Entry Level Machine Operator job openings:

Entry Level Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Machine Operator job openings in Henderson, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,694 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Mill Entry Level

Henderson, KY

International Paper
Paper Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 296 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

322nd of 544 rated manufacturers

Good employer

Paid breaks

Respectful managers

Learn more about International Paperexternal

$24.57/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Mill Entry Level 

Starting Hourly Rate: $24.57

Quarterly Incentives:

  • 4% Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) payout
  • Up to 8% of Gainsharing bonus
     

Shift/Category:
Employees work a DuPont shift schedule, which requires 12-hour shifts (5:30 AM-5:30 PM and 5:30 PM-5:30 AM) with rotating days and nights. This schedule also requires availability to work weekends, holidays, etc. 

About The Role:
This position supports International Paper's Henderson Mill facility. The Mill Entry Level must have a desire and ability to work as a multi-skilled technician in a paper mill. After an initial onboarding period, the Mill Entry Level new hire immediately begins a state-of-the-art training and certification program to allow potential advancement to higher position and increased wages.

The ideal candidate will have on-the-job success in safety, attendance, and quality of work; excellent teamwork, cooperation and problem-solving skills; a minimum of 1-year experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred, previous mobile equipment experience is preferred, working knowledge of standard administrative duties (typing, Word, Excel, etc.).

The Job you will Perform:

  • You will start in an entry-level position, perform general physical activities and operate powered industrial trucks (PIT).
  • On the job training may involve physical, technical, and mechanical ability in order to perform the following duties:
    • Climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials
    • Monitoring, adjusting, and controlling operating equipment
    • Conducting tests and inspections of products or processes to evaluate quality or performance
       

Physical, Dexterity, and Strength Requirements: (with or without reasonable accommodation)

  • Able to lift/handle 50 pounds occasionally
  • Able to lift 2 - 20 pounds regularly
  • Able to climb steps and ladders
  • Able to enter small vessels
  • Able to work from heights
  • Able to turn large valves
  • Able to stand or walk for 2 - 3 hours at a time for 10 - 12 hours
  • Able to work in extreme temperatures (hot/cold)
  • Able to work in a noisy environment while wearing hearing protection
     

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS

  • At least 18 years of age
  • Minimum high school graduate, GED, or equivalent work experience
  • Eligible for employment in the US
  • Must be willing to meet the following requirements:
    • Operate or work in industrial conditions (may be warm/hot, dusty/dirty, around hazardous chemicals, noise, heavy machinery or elevated working surfaces (with proper safety training and safety protection)
    • Undergo a drug screen for illicit use of drugs as a condition of employment
    • Undergo a job-related health assessment as a condition of employment
    • Submit to periodic drug screens as a condition of employment
    • Work any shift and/or a rotating shift schedule
    • Work overtime on a regular basis and with last-minute notification
    • Work holidays and/or weekends on a regular basis
    • Wear required safety equipment
       

The Skills You Will Bring:

  • Critical Thinking - Analyze and use logic to address issues
  • Mechanical Aptitude - Capacity to apply mechanical principles to solve problems
  • Team Player - Collaborate and work cooperatively across a multifunctional team
  • Dependability - Being reliable, responsible, and dependable
  • Self-Motivation - Exerting effort towards training to move up to next position and accepting feedback to make improvements or take corrective action
     

Preferred candidates have the following skills and/or experience(s):

  • Demonstrated stability through a consistent work history with at least 2-years consecutive employment; or,
  • Demonstrated combination of technical training and school leadership activities; or,
  • Other technical training or certifications such as Ready to Work programs
The Benefits You Will Enjoy:
International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and pets

The Career You Will Build:
Leadership training, promotional opportunities
The Impact You Will Make:
We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 125 years. Join our team and you'll see why our team members say they're Proud to be IP.
The Culture You Will Experience:
International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring and inclusive workplaces. We have team members all around the world with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. These are our strengths. We are committed to creating a culture where all individuals are respected, valued, engaged and have an opportunity to do their best work every day. We invite you to bring your uniqueness, creativity, talents, experiences, and safety mindset to be a part of our increasingly inclusive and diverse culture.
The Company You Will Join:
International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) creates sustainable packaging solutions that enable our customers, teammates and shareowners to thrive in an ever-changing world. We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect what matters most, strengthen supply chains and create lasting value. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.

International Paper is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.  International Paper complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact reasonable.accommodations@ipaper.com or (877) 973-3919.

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About International Paper

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

International Paper is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion.

Industry

Paper manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US

Year founded

1898

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