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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Maersk

Driver I (non-regulated) [LSO FLC]

Hanover, MD · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

The Frontline career stream covers people in skilled or entry-level operator jobs often providing services directly for the benefit of our customers e.g. transporting and loading/unloading cargo ...

A.P. Møller - Maersk A/S

Driver

Hanover, MD · On-site

The Frontline career stream covers people in skilled or entry-level operator jobs often providing services directly for the benefit of our customers e.g. transporting and loading/unloading cargo ...

A.P. Møller - Maersk A/S

Driver

Hanover, MD

The Frontline career stream covers people in skilled or entry-level operator jobs often providing services directly for the benefit of our customers e.g. transporting and loading/unloading cargo ...

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All JobsOperator JobsEntry Level Operator JobsEntry Level Operator Jobs in Washington

Entry Level Operator information

See Washington salary details

$13

$19

$24

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Washington is $19.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $21.49 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 is an entry level operator?

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.

How to become an entry level operator with no experience?

To become an entry level operator with no experience, focus on gaining basic technical skills through online courses or vocational training, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training if applicable. Employers often look for a willingness to learn, good communication skills, and the ability to follow safety protocols, so demonstrating these qualities can improve your chances of starting in an entry-level role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level operator?

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 Washington? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Operator jobs in Washington? For Entry Level Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Operator job openings:
Entry Level Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,144 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Operator-In-Training - Senior Lead Operator

Maryland Environmental Service

Charlotte Hall, MD

$39K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Maryland Environmental Service rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 439 rated engineering

Job description

Current MES Employees who are interested in applying for this position must visit the Internal MES Careers Page by going to their Workday Dashboard, clicking on the Career icon and selecting Find Jobs.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading team that provides environmental solutions to the public and private sectors throughout the State of Maryland.

Job Description:

Maryland Environmental Service has an opening for an entry level Operator-In-Training (OIT) or an experienced Operator to work at our facility located in Scotland, MD. The OIT apprenticeship is a 3-year program that includes on-the-job training, an independent study program, and professional in-house mentoring and coaching. The starting salary for an OIT is $39,748.80, with excellent benefits. During the 3-year apprenticeship period, there will be periodic pay raises based on reaching established benchmarks and job performance. Successful graduates of the program will be offered Operator positions with ME
Some MES facilities provide services 365 days a year, which might mean that you could be required to work in varying weather conditions, on weekends and holidays, or be called to work during emergency situations.

Estimated Pay Range:

$41,736.24 - $87,753.12

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance with choice of medical plan and prescription, dental, vision, and life and disability insurance options, along with flexible spending accounts

  • 401K retirement savings program with generous agency match

  • Paid vacation, personal and sick leave

  • Eleven paid holidays per year

  • Tuition assistance

Minimum Requirements:

To be considered for the OIT Program, you must have a HS Diploma or GED, and a driver's license with less than 5 points. Candidates who are mechanically inclined and have good, basic math skills will excel.
To view an informational video about the program, go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDEemFOq3DE
This position will be open until filled.
The Operator-In-Training (OIT) position is eligible for on-spot, contingent offers. Candidates who apply after an on-spot offer has been extended (including internal candidates) will not be considered unless the candidate who receives the on-spot, contingent offer does not complete the process to become an MES employee.

Any offer of employment will be contingent upon successfully completing required pre-employment screens, to include full background check, drug & alcohol screening, and position appropriate physical.

Maryland Environmental Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. MES does not participate in programs that require sponsorship for work visas.

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