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Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Staunton, VA

McKee Foods

Production Associate

Stuarts Draft, VA

$22.62 - $23.88/hr

This is an entry-level Packaging Technician or Make-up Monitor position at our bakery that requires ... Previous machine operator experience Benefits * Competitive weekly pay * Profit-sharing cash bonus ...

Asplundh

Bucket Operator Union CDL Required

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $22.25/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 ...

Asplundh

Bucket Operator Union CDL Required

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$17 - $22.75/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 ...

Upstream Rehabilitation

Patient Care Coordinator

Staunton, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

A Patient Care Coordinator is an entry-level office role that is responsible for maintaining ... This is a full-time position operating within normal business hours Monday through Friday, with an ...

All JobsMachine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Staunton, VA

Entry Level Machine Operator information

See Staunton, VA salary details

$12

$17

$21

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 Staunton, VA is $17.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.65 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 Staunton, VA?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Staunton, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Staunton, VA?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Staunton, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Staunton, VA are:

What cities near Staunton, VA are hiring for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Staunton, VA 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 Staunton, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 62% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,720 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Production Associate(2nd Shift)

McKee Foods

Stuarts Draft, VA • On-site

$22.62 - $23.88/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

McKee Foods rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Production Associate (2nd Shift)

Join America's favorite family bakery since 1934-home of Little Debbie, Drake's Cakes, and Sunbelt Bakery Granola Bars. Work with legacy brands that bring smiles to faces nationwide, including yours. You'll experience a culture committed to work-life balance, guaranteed time off, and supportive health and wellness offerings. Enjoy profit sharing, long-term job security, and a range of exciting career paths. When you join McKee Foods, you'll discover a better way to live and work.

Pay

$22.62 - $23.88/ hour, depending on experience and qualifications
Plus $1.00 / hr shift premium for 2nd Shift hours

Schedule

2nd Shift (Sunday - Thursday, 1:50 PM - 10:00 PM OR 2:20 PM - 10:30 PM)

Onsite; other days and hours as needed

Location

272 Patton Farm Road Stuarts Draft, Virginia, 24477

Job Summary

McKee Foods is seeking a Production Associate, 2nd Shift to join our Manufacturing team. This is an entry-level Packaging Technician or Make-up Monitor position at our bakery that requires no previous experience. We offer on-the-job training in our modern manufacturing facility. In this role, you'll play an important role on our high-speed production line ensuring the efficient and precise packaging of our snack cakes. Your key responsibilities will include:

  • Performing minor line equipment set ups, moving product trays, conducting product inspections
  • Monitoring: inspecting product quality and removing defects to meet quality and productivity targets
  • Loading and Unloading: moving materials onto pallets, trays, racks, and shelves
  • Case-packing/palletizing:placing cartons into shipping cases and/or stacking shipping cases onto pallets
  • Operating: operating power hoists and electric pallet jacks to lift heavy objects

Required Qualifications

  • Demonstrates a solid work history reflected in reliable attendance, safe work practices, effective job performance, adaptability and teamwork
  • Proven ability to work efficiently and accurately in a fast-paced production environment
  • Ability to perform repetitive motions while sitting or standing for duration of entire shift
  • Regularly lift up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally move more than 100 pounds (with or without accommodation)
  • Ability to read, write, and do basic math
  • Record product data using a computer
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, troubleshooting issues as they arise
  • Ability to learn new processes, procedures, and equipment while maintaining a positive attitude
  • Maintain a clean work area and practice good personal hygiene
  • Keeps waste to a minimum while ensuring products meet quality specifications and food safety standards
  • Follow proper safety procedures at all times. This includes wearing approved uniform such as hearing protection, hairnets, slip-resistant shoes, etc.

WARNING: APPLICANTS WITH ALLERGIES SHOULD BE AWARE THAT SOY FLOUR, RAW AND COOKED PEANUTS, ALMONDS, WALNUTS AND POSSIBLY OTHER TREE NUTS MAY BE PRESENT IN THE WORK ENVIRONMENT AND MAY NEED TO BE HANDLED AS PART OF NORMAL JOB DUTIES.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment
  • Previous experience in food manufacturing or a related field
  • Previous technical training
  • Accurate measurement and conversion skills
  • Troubleshooting ability
  • Previous machine operator experience

Benefits

  • Competitive weekly pay
  • Profit-sharing cash bonus program
  • 401(k) with matching contributions
  • Paid Time Off (for vacation, holidays, sick time, personal time, etc.)
  • Medical insurance, including health, dental, vision and prescription drug plan
  • Supplemental plans, including life insurance
  • Fully-paid parental leave
  • Health Center and Pharmacy
  • Mental wellness counseling (on-site in TN, virtual elsewhere)
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Credit Union
  • Exercise and recreation facility
  • Wellness programs with incentives
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Short-term and long-term disability (company-paid)

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

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