2

Entry Level Machinist Jobs in Foley, AL (NOW HIRING)

Operator Apprentice

FL

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Benefits starting Day 1! Operator Apprentice Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry level ... Relieving production positions; operating various light and heavy industrial machinery * Showing a ...

Operator Apprentice

Mcdavid, FL

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Benefits starting Day 1! Operator Apprentice Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry level ... Relieving production positions; operating various light and heavy industrial machinery * Showing a ...

Operator Apprentice

FL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Benefits starting Day 1! Operator Apprentice Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry level ... Relieving production positions; operating various light and heavy industrial machinery * Showing a ...

HVAC/R Technician

Robertsdale, AL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Reach-ins * Ice machines * Split systems * Commercial refrigeration systems Responsibilities ... Restaurant or foodservice experience is a plus This is not an entry-level position. We are looking ...

HVAC/R Technician

Robertsdale, AL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Reach-ins * Ice machines * Split systems * Commercial refrigeration systems Responsibilities ... Restaurant or foodservice experience is a plus This is not an entry-level position. We are looking ...

Mailroom Associate

Pensacola, FL · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

... Client requirements at an entry level. Supervisory Responsibilities: • N/A Duties ... processes for machines. • Basic understanding of or the ability to learn locations and ...

Mailroom Associate

Pensacola, FL · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

... Client requirements at an entry level. Supervisory Responsibilities: • N/A Duties ... processes for machines. • Basic understanding of or the ability to learn locations and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Machinist information

See Foley, AL salary details

$10

$14

$18

How much do entry level machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level machinist in Foley, AL is $14.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.25 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.

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Machinist jobs in Foley, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Machinist jobs in Foley, AL are:

What cities near Foley, AL are hiring for Entry Level Machinist jobs?

Cities near Foley, AL with the most Entry Level Machinist job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Machinist job openings in Foley, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,089 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


West Fraser rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 19 rated forestry and logging companies


Job description

Come join our West Fraser team and grow with us!

Benefits starting Day 1!

Operator Apprentice

Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions.

What you will do:

  • Maintaining safe work areas, collecting debris and disposing of sawdust and dropped lumber in assigned areas
  • Cleaning industrial equipment and workstations
  • Relieving production positions; operating various light and heavy industrial machinery
  • Showing a willingness and flexibility to perform various job assignments that may change daily
  • Supporting our culture of safety by adhering to mill safety policies and procedures at all times

What you need to be successful:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum of six (6) months in a manufacturing or industrial environment preferred
  • Ability to work outdoors in all temperatures in loud, high-volume environments performing physical tasks throughout the shift
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the position which includes walking, standing, sitting, climbing stairs, bending and lifting up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to perform all tasks in accordance with West Fraser safety policies and procedures
  • Recognize and support our team culture, communicating effectively with all team members
  • Ability to work rotating shifts, holidays and weekends
  • Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check, drug screen test and physical

Our highly competitive compensation package and outstanding benefits include:

  • Benefits starting Day 1
  • Competitive starting pay
  • On-the-job training
  • A culture that strongly believes in promoting from within
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401k with company match
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Insurance
  • Paid vacations and holidays

Apply:

If you are ready to build your career in a company that thrives on growth, a safe work environment, rewarding work, challenge, and opportunity, come build your career with us at West Fraser: www.westfraser.com

West Fraser is a diversified North American wood products company producing southern yellow pine lumber and wood chips across the Southern US and Western Canada. We are the largest lumber producer in North America!

Our employees operate in a culture that values safety first and rewards hard work. We recognize and support our team culture and focus on growing our team by promoting from within – many of our employees have built their careers with us. West Fraser is a growing company that believes strongly in promoting from within and prides itself on providing a challenging environment with continuous development. The successful candidate should be interested in future growth opportunities within the company.

We thank all candidates for their interest. Please apply through our online application process as resumes will not be accepted at the site. No phone inquiries, please.

West Fraser believes inclusive, diverse teams build a more vibrant workforce, safer operations, and a stronger company overall. We strive to create workplaces and leadership teams that are reflective of the diverse communities we are a part of. We will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of race, gender, national origin, or any other protected legal characteristic.

West Fraser is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D & Drug-Free Workplace


What West Fraser employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


West Fraser logo

About West Fraser

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

West Fraser is a well-established wood products company with a diverse portfolio of more than 60 facilities across Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. As a leader in sustainable forestry practices and high-efficiency wood product manufacturing, we have gained recognition for our commitment to excellence. Our core business involves producing lumber, engineered wood, and various other products, including pulp, newsprint, and renewable energy. With a focus on modern manufacturing facilities and product innovation, we are shaping a promising future.

Industry

Forestry

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Vancouver, BC, CA

Social media