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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Hampton Lumber is a thriving family-owned company aspiring to beNorth America's preferred source for responsibly-sourced wood solutions. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, we operate nine sawmills in ...

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Company Summary Hampton Lumber is a thriving family-owned company aspiring to beNorth America's preferred source for responsibly-sourced wood solutions. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, we operate ...

Manufacturing Production Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

Future Consideration - Entry-Level Manufacturing Production Operators (12-Hour Pitman Schedule) for Clean Room Environments Our Manufacturing Production Operator is responsible for setting up and ...

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Entry Level Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$18

$22

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Oregon is $18.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $20.10 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 Oregon? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Operator jobs in Oregon? For Entry Level Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Entry Level Operator jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Entry Level Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,408 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Rail Terminal Operator

Rail Terminal Operator

Rail Management Services

Portland, OR • On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Pacific Rail Services is looking for full-time permanent Rail Terminal Operators to join our team at the BNSF Portland, OR Terminal in a recession proof industry!  We're hiring immediately for this entry level position.  No experience is required as we'll teach you everything you need to know in order to be successful on the job.   
Copy and paste this YouTube link to see what you'll be doing!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uriQMlaUUsI&feature=youtu.be

Both Day and Night shifts available.
Starting Rate:
$19.80/hr
+ Available Overtime
Make $55,000 - $65,000 in your 1st year!

Benefits: (Medical benefits start after 60 days and the first of the month after that. Other benefits typically start after your 90-day probationary period)
  • Affordable Healthcare, Free Dental, cheap Vision Benefits
  • Free Life Insurance
  • Paid holidays, paid personal days
  • Boot reimbursement
  • 401K
  • Yearly Raises
  • Vacation Pay (received on yearly anniversary)
  • Weekly Pay
  • Local Union 

Applicants for the Railroad Laborer position must meet the general requirements for employment with the company, according to the Company hiring process which includes:
  • Must be 18 years old and possess a valid Driver's License
  • Must be able to pass a 7-year background check, a drug test, and a Physical Capabilities Test.
  • No GED or High School Diploma required  

Please respond to this advertisement with your resume, or apply in person at:
BNSF Portland, OR Terminal
3930 N.W. Yeon
Portland, OR 97210
APPLICANTS MUST currently live within a 45 minute commute of Portland, OR. OUT OF AREA candidates and/or those requiring a relocation will NOT be considered.
This job would be suitable for persons looking for jobs in a warehouse, as a delivery driver, a forklift driver, working outdoors, doing landscaping, and working in a railyard.
You will be employed directly by Pacific Rail Services and will not be considered an employee of the Railroad.