2

Entry Level Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator Trainee

Leola, AR

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Machine Operator Trainee Our Machine Operator Trainee is an entry-level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions. What you will do:

Machine Operator Trainee

Leola, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Machine Operator Trainee Our Machine Operator Trainee is an entry-level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions. What you will do:

Machine Operator Trainee

Leola, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Machine Operator Trainee Our Machine Operator Trainee is an entry-level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions. What you will do:

Operator Apprentice 1

Mansfield, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Mill Operator Mansfield, AR Our Machine Operator Trainee/Utility position is an entry level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions.

Operator Apprentice 1

Mansfield, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Mill Operator Mansfield, AR Our Machine Operator Trainee/Utility position is an entry level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions.

Operator Apprentice 1

Mansfield, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Mill Operator Mansfield, AR Our Machine Operator Trainee/Utility position is an entry level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions.

Grain Elevator Operator This is an entry level position responsible for the operation of the grain elevator as it pertains to loading, unloading and transferring grain and grain products in an ...

Job Title Grain Elevator Operator This role is currently being offered as a seasonal position not ... This is an entry level position responsible for the operation of the grain elevator as it pertains ...

... entry-level candidates - Affordable health insurance you can actually use, including $5 copays, $5 ... Machine Operator - Operate manufacturing and production machinery safely - Load and unload raw ...

The entry level starting rate of pay is $19.41 per hour . All open positions are on the night shift ... Responsible for operating equipment in assigned area. * Feeding or placing items onto equipment for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Operator information

See Arkansas salary details

$10

$14

$17

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Arkansas is $14.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $15.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Entry Level Operators and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Operators often face challenges such as mastering complex machinery, adapting to shift work, and maintaining consistent productivity in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions, and seek guidance from experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and being proactive about safety procedures can also help new operators quickly become effective and confident in their roles.

How to become an operator with no experience?

To become an entry-level operator with no experience, focus on gaining relevant skills through vocational training or technical programs, and consider obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training. Many employers offer on-the-job training, so demonstrating a strong work ethic and willingness to learn can help you start in this role.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Entry level operator roles typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized or highly skilled positions like certain freelance consultants, high-level traders, or contractors in industries such as oil and gas. Most entry level jobs offer hourly wages or salaries significantly below this amount, and earning $2000 daily generally requires extensive experience, certifications, or working in high-demand fields with premium pay rates.

What is an entry-level operator?

An entry-level operator is a worker who performs basic operational tasks in industries such as manufacturing, utilities, or transportation. They typically require minimal prior experience, may need a high school diploma or equivalent, and often receive on-the-job training to operate machinery or equipment safely and efficiently.

What are entry level operators?

Entry level operators are employees who typically work in manufacturing, production, or industrial settings and are responsible for running machinery, monitoring equipment, and ensuring products meet quality standards. They are usually new to the field and receive on-the-job training to learn how to operate specific machines or processes. Their duties may include starting and stopping equipment, doing basic maintenance, reporting malfunctions, and keeping work areas clean and safe. Entry level operators play a key role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

An entry-level operator role typically does not pay $10,000 a month without specialized skills or certifications. High-paying jobs in fields like skilled trades, sales, or certain technical roles may reach that level, but they often require experience, training, or licensing rather than a formal degree. Most positions offering such salaries involve significant responsibility or technical expertise.

What is the difference between Entry Level Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectEntry Level OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing lines, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles across manufacturing and industrial sectorsOperational roles in manufacturing, processing, and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Operator and a Machine Operator lies in their experience and specialization. Entry Level Operators typically have basic training and perform general operational tasks, while Machine Operators often have specific technical skills and certifications to handle particular machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and share similar work settings, but Machine Operators usually require more technical expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn safety and operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial machinery, control systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are often required or highly valued. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations in manufacturing or industrial environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Arkansas? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Arkansas are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Operator jobs in Arkansas? For Entry Level Operator jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Arkansas look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Arkansas are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Arkansas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,039 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

(1) Heavy Equipment Operator I/II

City of Bentonville, Arkansas

Bentonville, AR • On-site

$18.42 - $21.59/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Safety/Security Status: Safety Sensitive


SUMMARY Depending on the department assigned, operates heavy equipment including but not limited to bulldozers, backhoes, graders, front-end loaders, dump trucks, cranes, tractors, brush hogs, and street sweepers, bucket trucks, and skid steers. Each City department will have standard operations procedures for the type of equipment that is utilized. The Heavy Equipment Operator I position is an entry-level operator who possess basic skills and are capable of handling simple and routine operations and can operate the simpler and less complex pieces of equipment.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Reporting relationships, work assignments, and work schedules may be subject to change in order to meet City needs or operational requirements. Attendance at work and the ability to get along with the public, supervisors, and co-workers are essential elements of this position. Other duties may be assigned.


Fastens attachments to tractor with clevis or wedge pin hitches. Connects hydraulic hoses, belts, mechanical linkage, or power takeoff shaft to tractor to provide power to raise, lower, or tilt attachment.


Moves levers to control tool bars, carriers, and disks. Moves levers and depresses pedals to maneuver tractor and raise, lower, and tilt attachment to clear right-of-way.


Feels lever and listens for stalling action of engine to estimate depth of cut.


Drives bulldozer in successive passes over terrain to raise or lower terrain to specified grade following markings on grade stakes or high signals.


Releases brake, shifts gears, and depresses accelerator or moves throttle to control forward and backward movement of tractor. Steers tractor by turning steering wheel and depressing brake pedals.


Directs activities of hoisting Laborer in placing block and outriggers to prevent capsizing when lifting heavy loads.


Moves levers and pedals to rotate crane on chassis, to raise and lower crane boom, and to raise and lower load line. Operates crane according to signals from helper.


Bolts boom sections together to extend or modify boom for pile driving or high lifting.


Pushes and pulls levers and depresses pedals to raise, lower, and rotate boom and to raise and lower load line. Raises, lowers, and rotates boom or load by sight or according to signals from helper.


Inspects derrick for defective parts and notifies supervisor of defects or malfunctions. Fills water tank of machine from hydrant or other water source.


Drives sweeper along street near curb. Moves controls to activate rotary brushes and water spray so that the machine automatically picks up dust and trash from paved streets and deposits it in dirt trap at rear of machine.


Pulls lever to dump refuse in piles at curb for removal.


Greases, oils, and performs minor repairs on all heavy equipment machinery.


Works "On Call" as scheduled or required.


Performs other duties as required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES None.

QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE( I)High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and two (2) years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.


EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE( II )High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and four (4) years related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.


LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS Ability to add and subtract two digit numbers and to multiply and divide with 10's and 100's. Ability to perform these operations using units of American money and weight measurement, volume, and distance.

REASONING ABILITY Able to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS( I)

  • Must have and maintain a valid drivers license.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) within 90 days of hire.


CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS (II)

  • Must have and maintain a valid driver's license.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver's License Class A (CDL) within 90 days of hire.
  • Ability to obtain Flagger Certification
  • Ability to obtain OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Certifications
  • Ability to obtain Road Scholar Level I and II Certifications


PHYSICAL DEMANDSThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to walk; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit and taste or smell. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.


WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to outside weather conditions in all seasons. The employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and high, precarious places. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Work hours differ between departments.


This class specification should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this description but which are commensurate with similar levels of responsibility.


We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.