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Entry Level Machinist Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Entry Level CNC Machinists

Franklin, KY · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Job Title: Entry Level CNC Machinists Company: Essel Job Summary: Essel is seeking motivated and detail-oriented Entry Level CNC Machinists to join our production team. This position is ideal for ...

Essel

Entry Level CNC Machinists

Franklin, KY

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Job Title: Entry Level CNC Machinists Company: Essel Job Summary: Essel is seeking motivated and detail-oriented Entry Level CNC Machinists to join our production team. This position is ideal for ...

International Paper

Mill Entry Level

Henderson, KY · On-site

$24.57/hr

Mill Entry Level Starting Hourly Rate: $24.57 Quarterly Incentives: * 4% Continuous Process ... machinery or elevated working surfaces (with proper safety training and safety protection)

IWS, LLC

Manual Machinist - Lathe & Mill

Mayfield, KY · On-site

$19 - $29/hr

Ideal candidates have strong mechanical aptitude and experience with manual machining, precision measurement, blueprint reading, machine setup, and industrial manufacturing . Entry-level candidates ...

SilencerCo

$20/hr

Night Shift - 4:00 PM - 2:30 AM (Monday - Thursday) Pay: Entry-level operators start at $20.00 DOE Position Description SilencerCo is seeking entry level, intermediate, and experienced CNC Machine ...

Rfamec

$65 - $90/hr

... organization. Entry Level Software Engineer This position is associated with developing and ... General machine knowledge of agriculture or off-road equipment and machinery * Practical working ...

New

Rfamec

$55 - $75/hr

... Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer This job involves responding to process and part quality issues ... industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design ...

Ingevity

Entry Level Operator

Wickliffe, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Job Family Group: Manufacturing Operations Are you ready to do something remarkable? Ready to collaborate with an incredible team to solve problems that improve people's lives? Meet Ingevity. At ...

Ingevity

Entry Level Operator

Wickliffe, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Job Family Group: Manufacturing Operations Are you ready to do something remarkable? Ready to collaborate with an incredible team to solve problems that improve people's lives? Meet Ingevity. At ...

Domtar

Chemical Entry Level Engineer

Hawesville, KY · On-site

As an Entry Level Engineer, you will be part of a team that shapes the future of innovation in the ... Focus on improving the quality control of paper machines by proactively identifying potential ...

Domtar

Chemical Entry Level Engineer

Hawesville, KY · On-site

As an Entry Level Engineer, you will be part of a team that shapes the future of innovation in the ... Job Responsibilities/Accountabilities: • Focus on improving the quality control of paper machines ...

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Entry Level Machinist information

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How much do entry level machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level machinist in Kentucky is $15.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level machinist do?

An entry level machinist operates and maintains machines that shape metal and other materials into precise parts and tools. They typically work under the supervision of experienced machinists, learning to read blueprints, set up equipment, and monitor production processes. Their duties often include measuring finished parts, performing routine machine maintenance, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. This role is a foundational step in a machining career and provides hands-on experience with various manufacturing equipment.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Machinist, you need basic mechanical aptitude, math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by vocational training. Familiarity with CNC machines, micrometers, calipers, and blueprint reading is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn are standout soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing precise parts, maintaining safety, and ensuring smooth workflow in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level machinists, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level machinists often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex technical drawings, achieving precise measurements, and adapting to different types of machinery. These challenges can be overcome by seeking mentorship from experienced machinists, actively participating in on-the-job training, and consistently practicing measurement and machine operation skills. Building strong communication with team members and supervisors also helps, as it allows new machinists to ask questions and learn best practices, ultimately leading to improved confidence and technical proficiency.

What is the difference between Entry Level Machinist vs Apprentice Machinist?

AspectEntry Level MachinistApprentice Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingEnrolled in apprenticeship program; technical training included
Work EnvironmentManufacturing shops, machine shopsOn-the-job training under supervision, often in same environments
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions in manufacturing and machiningTraining phase within manufacturing industry, often with union programs

While both roles involve machining tasks, an Entry Level Machinist is typically ready to perform basic machining duties independently after some training, whereas an Apprentice Machinist is still learning and gaining hands-on experience through a structured program. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, with apprentices focusing on skill development before becoming fully qualified machinists.

Can you be an entry level machinist with no experience?

Entry level machinist positions often do not require prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training and may look for candidates with basic technical skills or a high school diploma. Having knowledge of machining tools, safety procedures, and the ability to learn quickly can improve chances of obtaining an entry-level role.

How much does an entry level machinist make?

An entry-level machinist typically earns between $15 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $40,000. Compensation can vary based on location, industry, and the individual's skills or certifications in operating CNC machines and precision tools.
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The most popular types of Machinist jobs in Kentucky are:

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For Entry Level Machinist jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Cities in Kentucky with the most Entry Level Machinist job openings:

Entry Level Machinist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Machinist job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,551 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Entry Level Machinist | NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED! | First Shift | Walton, KY | $17-$23/hr!

AtWork Personnel

Walton, KY • On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Entry Level Machinist | NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED! | First Shift | Walton, KY

Local tooling/fixture maker looking for an entry level machinist. A machinist is a person that can accurately machine parts to print, using a variety of machines and/or methods, relying on his/her skills, obtained through an accredited trade school or from many years of on-the-job experience. New machinists must act as a team player and work well with others in their department to accomplish production targets. The company expects them to be detail-oriented and self-motivated to take on any kind of work, and to make suggestions to improve efficiency of any work process.

Requirements:

  • Must be able to read and understand shop blueprints and metric measuring instruments.
  • Applicant must be comfortable with using computers
  • Available to work overtime
  • Open to traveling when needed
  • Able to stand for duration of shift and lift up to 60lbs
  • Must have a desire to increase your machining skills as well as cross train in other areas of the shop (Welding, Assembly, etc)

Preferred Skills:

  • Applicant who is familiar with Mastercam
  • Applicant who is familiar with G codes / M codes
  • Applicant who has worked with Flow Water Jet machine

Schedule:

Monday-Friday 8am-4:45pm

Pay:

$17-23/hr paid weekly

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