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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

West Fraser, Inc

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:

West Fraser

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:

West Fraser

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:

West Fraser, Inc

Operator Apprentice 1

Mansfield, AR

$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.

West Fraser

Operator Apprentice 1

Mansfield, AR

$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.

West Fraser

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.

Entergy

Maintenance Operator I-III

Osceola, AR · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Maintenance Operator I-III Work Place Flexibility: Onsite Legal Entity: Entergy Arkansas, LLC ... MO I-II: 0-2 years of experience in an operations or similar field or entry level with a background ...

Westrock Coffee

Machine Operator I - Extracts 2nd

Conway, AR · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Proficient in all entry-level extract operations and equipment handling. * Responsible for extract production in accordance with SOPs and within defined processing specifications. * Actively reports ...

New

Entergy

Maintenance Operator I-III

Osceola, AR · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Maintenance Operator I-III Work Place Flexibility: Onsite Legal Entity: Entergy Arkansas, LLC ... MO I-II: 0-2 years of experience in an operations or similar field or entry level with a background ...

Westrock Coffee

Machine Operator I - Extracts 1st

Conway, AR · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Proficient in all entry-level extract operations and equipment handling. * Responsible for extract production in accordance with SOPs and within defined processing specifications. * Actively reports ...

New

Nutrien

Operator, Extraction

Osceola, AR · On-site

Operator, Extraction Requisition ID: 32824 Location: Osceola, AR, USA, 72370 Workplace Type ... On-Site Experience Level: Entry Level Job Type: Full Time Nutrien is a leading provider of crop ...

Onin Staffing

Machine Operator

Walnut Ridge, AR

$16/hr

... 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 ...

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All JobsOperator JobsEntry Level Operator JobsEntry Level Operator Jobs in Arkansas

Entry Level Operator information

See Arkansas salary details

$10

$14

$17

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 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.

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 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:
Entry Level Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Arkansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% 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.
Machine Operator Trainee

Machine Operator Trainee

West Fraser, Inc

Leola, AR

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

West Fraser rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 18 rated forestry and logging companies

Job description

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:

  • 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
  • Progressively qualifying on numerous machine centers to work throughout the facility
  • 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:

  • No direct experience needed
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 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 aptitude testing, background check, drug screen test, and physical

Outstanding benefits package including:

  • 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 and additional retirement contribution
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • 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: https://www.westfraser.com/careers/current-opportunities

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please apply through our online application process. Be sure to attach your resume to your online profile as resumes will not be accepted at the site. No phone inquiries, please.

West Fraser is a diversified wood products company producing lumber, OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, pulp, newsprint, wood chips, and energy with over 60 facilities in Canada, the United States, and Europe. We are the largest lumber producer in North America, a leading global manufacturer of wood-based panels, and the world’s largest producer of oriented strand board (OSB).

What West Fraser employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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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

Facebook

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