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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 ...

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 ...

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This is an entry level position for a Press Break Apprentice. You will be responsible for assisting ... Responsibilities * Assist in Operating and monitoring the press and other machinery to produce ...

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 ...

Entry Level Clean Up

Tillamook, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

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 ...

Telephone Operator

Tigard, OR · On-site

$17.40 - $25.22/hr

We're hiring a Telephone Operator who will work out of our West Cancer Clinic in Tigard, OR! In ... Position is entry level and requires (0-3) years of related experience, preferably in a medical ...

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

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Entry Level Clean Up

Tillamook, OR

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$18

$22

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 50% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,408 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Entry Level - Planer

Entry Level - Planer

Hampton Lumber

Warrenton, OR • On-site

$23.34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Hampton Lumber rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

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 Western Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia. We also manage timberland and operate a wholesale and import/export division.  

Our mission is togrow, manufacture, and market renewable wood products and deliver innovative solutions for a more sustainable built environment. At Hampton Lumber, we accomplish this through our own operations as well as those of our affiliates—Trapa Forest Products, Idaho Timber, and RedBuilt. Our tagline, "Find a better way every day," encapsulates our commitment to innovation and improvement across all operations.
 

We are guided by our core values: 

  • Safety – Prioritize safety across all operations.
  • Integrity & Authenticity – Operate honestly and ethically while preserving our distinctive family-owned brand.
  • Responsible Stewardship – Endeavor to balance and maintain economic, social, and environmental values in everything we do.
  • Tenacity – Embrace challenges with grit, determination, and a can-do spirit. 
  • Continuous Improvement – Strive to enhance our processes, products, and people.
  • Customer Satisfaction – Be nimble, responsive, and solutions-oriented.
  • Community Engagement – Be a responsive, supportive, and respected member of the community.

With over 80 years in the sawmill business, we are proud to have cultivated the knowledge and experience needed to grow and prosper, even in challenging times. We always look to the future and invest in our people, new technologies, and continuous improvement processes and techniques. 


This position's primary function is to keep the facility clean in order to eliminate safety and fire hazards.The individual in this position will work in the Planer. This person will be asked to perform the following tasks; general facility clean up including picking up slabs, sticks, sawdust, chips off lower mill floors, and assist with dust mitigation. Wage: $23.34


  • Substantial company-paid assistance for Medical and Dental insurance premiums; mental health coverage; cost effective co-pays and deductibles
  • 401(k) with 5% annual company contribution and generous company matching contributions vested over three years
  • Paid time off, including eight paid holidays
  • Opportunity to earn bonuses
  • Employee wellness program that includes free counseling sessions, financial and legal guidance, and more
  • Opportunities for paid training to support career advancement and personal development

  • Pick up slabs, sticks, sawdust, and chips off lower mill floors
  • Assist with dust mitigation
  • Maintain a safe environment and comply with all safety policies and procedures
  • Apply good housekeeping standards to your work area or any area you observe

  • Completion of high-school or equivalent preferred but not required
  • Sawmill experience preferred but not required
  • Must be able to safely work at a moderate to fast pace
  • Lifting is 20-30 pounds on a continuous basis
  • Sawmill experience preferred but not required
  • Must be willing to learn new skills
  • Be a team player and self-starter

Hampton took over management of the Warrenton plant in 2010, however, this site has had a sawmill on it since 1921. We currently employ 140 people, some of which have worked here for over 30 years while others have just started their careers. This creates an incredible team of skilled problem-solvers who work together to continuously improve in all areas within the plant-site. Warrenton employees live out the company’s deep commitment to people, community, and sustainability—the heart of Hampton’s company culture—by supporting organizations such as 4H, Girls Build, Robotics Club, and the Clatsop Works Internship program.

Learn more at hamptonlumber.com, or follow us on Facebook: @HamptonLumber.  You can also learn about our company and our priorities by visiting our blog. 


Hampton Lumber is an equal opportunity employer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other status protected by law. 

Disability accommodation available: If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact the Human Resources Office for the location that you are applying.

Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see these government posters: EEO is the Law and its accompanying temporary supplement.