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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

365 Freight USA

Class A Commercial Driver Entry Level

Columbia, SC · On-site

$83K - $92K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Experience -- Trainee/Entry-Level Route: Recent CDL school graduates are welcome. Up to 6 weeks of ... Join a team that values predictable pay, modern equipment, and dependable home time while operating ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Lexington, SC · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Prosperity, SC

$12.50 - $16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Irmo, SC · On-site

$12 - $15.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Sumter, SC · On-site

$12 - $15.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

West Columbia, SC

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Sumter, SC · On-site

$13.25 - $17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Lexington, SC

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Lexington, SC

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

West Columbia, SC

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

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All JobsOperator JobsEntry Level Operator JobsEntry Level Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC

Entry Level Operator information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Columbia, SC is $16.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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. Many employers also consider candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training to develop necessary skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Entry Level Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Entry Level Operator job openings:

Entry Level Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,607 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Class A Commercial Driver Entry Level

365 Freight USA

Columbia, SC • On-site

$83K - $92K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Are you seeking consistent miles, newer equipment, and reliable home time? 365 Freight USA is expanding fleet operations across the Eastern U.S. corridor (East of I-35) with regional operations based in Columbia, SC. We are hiring safety-focused Class A CDL drivers who want a stable career. We provide 100% paid practical miles, secure terminal parking in the Columbia area, and comprehensive benefits to support drivers on the road and at home.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Guaranteed Income: Top drivers average $1,770 per week (approximately $92,000 annually).
  • Base Rate: $0.55 CPM for all miles, loaded and empty.
  • Accessorial Pay: $20/hour detention pay (beginning after 2 hours), layover pay, and breakdown compensation.
  • Sign-On Bonus: $1,500 (paid out in 3 months).
  • Full Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance effective after 30 days.
  • Retirement: 401(k) plan with a 5% company match.

The Route & Equipment

  • Predictable Schedule: Regional lanes serving the Eastern U.S. corridor (East of I-35).
  • Home Time: Weekly home time with a guaranteed full 48-hour weekend reset.
  • Premium Trucks: Assigned 2025–2026 Freightliner/Kenworth models (strict no slip-seating policy).
  • Driver Comfort: Tractors equipped with APUs, 1500-watt inverters, and factory refrigerators.
  • Freight Type: 100% no-touch freight; drop-and-hook operations.
  • Company Programs: Pet and passenger rider programs supported from day one.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • License: Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A).
  • Record: Clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) and a current DOT Medical Card.
  • Experience — Experienced Route: Minimum of 3 months verifiable OTR or regional tractor-trailer experience.
  • Experience — Trainee/Entry-Level Route: Recent CDL school graduates are welcome. Up to 6 weeks of paid on-the-job training with a dedicated mentor and full tuition reimbursement up to $6,000.

Join a team that values predictable pay, modern equipment, and dependable home time while operating from Columbia, SC and throughout the Eastern U.S. corridor.