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Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Princeton, NJ

Lawn Doctor

Landscaping Service Lawn Care Technician

NJ · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Ability to operate machinery * Ability to meet production goals * Good written and verbal ... No matter the task, our independent operators know that every Lawn Doctor employee plays an ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Princeton, NJ

Entry Level Machine Operator information

See Princeton, NJ salary details

$12

$18

$22

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 Princeton, NJ is $18.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $19.90 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 cities near Princeton, NJ are hiring for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Princeton, NJ 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 Princeton, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,080 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

TRAFFIC AGENCY CLERK (FULL TIME)

City of Buffalo

New York, NY

$41K - $46K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

RESIDENCE: Residence is a requirement for all positions. In the absence of clear and convincing evidence to the contrary, an applicant shall be deemed a non-resident if he/she cannot show ninety (90) days of continuous and uninterrupted residence in the City of Buffalo prior to filing application. THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO ANYONE APPLYING FOR THE BUFFALO POLICE ENTRY LEVEL EXAMINATION.

NO RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT-SUMMER LIFEGUARDS: Due to the nationwide lifeguard shortage, residency is NOT a requirement for the seasonal lifeguard position in the City of Buffalo. Applicants from any nearby municipality are encouraged to apply. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT THE ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF BUFFALO MANDATE CONTINUOUS RESIDENCY IN THE CITY DURING YOUR EMPLOYMENT, EXCEPT FOR POSITIONS SPECIFICALLY EXEMPT UNDER STATE LAW.

FEE: WHERE INDICATED, A NON-REFUNDABLE APPLICATION PROCESSING FEE MUST ACCOMPANY YOUR APPLICATION VIA CHECK, CASH OR MONEY ORDER (If using check for payment, your check must clear to complete processing.) Check with Civil Service office for fee waiver info. Distinguishing Features of the Class This is an entry-level position that provides face-to-face customer service, processes traffic tickets/citations and related documents, and maintains records, documents and information in order to meet the requirements of agency programs. This work is accomplished in accordance with applicable procedures, rules, regulations and laws

Work is performed under the supervision of a clerical or administrative supervisor. No supervision is exercised over other employees. Examples of work (Illustration Only) Provide face-to-face customer service; Maintain records and files; Receive, screen, review, and verify documents; Search for and compile information and data; Answer questions about the activities of the organization orally or by correspondence; Prepare and/or issue documents and/or verify the validity of documents; Sort and distribute mail and email, keep appropriate records, and redirect mail and email as necessary; Request additional information, signature, remittance, by form, simple letter, email, or phone; Establish new files by numbering forms, coding, preparing file folders, and compiling relevant material; Update and correct records and files, file, retrieve and charge out records using one or more filing systems, which may be either manual or computer based; Search for an/or compile pertinent information and data from manual and/or computer-based files, reports, publication and other documents; Occasionally type envelopes, forms and brief reports.

This should not be a full-time activity requiring the speed and accuracy expected of a Typist or a Data Entry Operator; Provide information to and answer questions from other agencies and the public; Refer inquiries to appropriate office or individual; Keep records of telephone, address, email and other required information and maintain contact information; Operate office machines such as photocopiers, adding machines, calculators, computer printers, typewriters and audio-visual equipment and perform simple maintenance tasks such as adding toner and paper, and changing ribbons; Enter and/or retrieve information on a computer terminal; Provide clerical and administrative services for traffic agency or court; Does related work as required. Minimum Qualifications Open Competitive: High School Diploma, GED or Equivalency Diploma Special Requirement: Possession of a current valid NYS Drivers license, Learners Permit, Non-Driver Identification card or appropriate documentation that will allow applicant to access DMV Motor Vehicle Records Search which must be presented at time of appointment and maintained during employment. *Applicants must consent to screening requirements of the New York State License Event Notification Service (LENS).

This provision is in accordance with Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 382.703(a) and cannot be performed without the consent of the applicant THE CITY OF BUFFALO IS AN EQUAL OPPORUNITY EMPLOYER Additional Information Ability to understand and use common office record keeping and filing systems and processes; Ability to code and decode data for machine processing and similar office processing; Ability to read, understand and interpret regulation, procedural manuals, and other documents used in routine office processing; Ability to use common office equipment including equipment having alphanumeric keyboards, photocopiers, calculator; Ability to perform tasks accurately within prescribed time frames; Ability to communicate effectively in writing and orally.

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