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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Ogden, UT (NOW HIRING)

This is an entry-level opportunity at a large commercial metal recycling facility. Employees will work in a hot, dirty, physically demanding environment with primarily outdoor work. New employees ...

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Entry Level Operator information

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How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Ogden, UT is $17.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $18.61 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 Ogden, UT?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Ogden, UT are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Operator jobs in Ogden, UT?

For Entry Level Operator jobs in Ogden, UT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Ogden, UT look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Ogden, UT are:

What cities near Ogden, UT are hiring for Entry Level Operator jobs?

Cities near Ogden, UT with the most Entry Level Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Ogden, UT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,549 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Refinery Operator - Entry Level

Big West Oil

North Salt Lake, UT • On-site

$29.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Load and unload hot oil rail cars following established procedures and safety requirements, including verifying proper flow, identifying abnormal conditions, and accurately documenting volumes or required operating information.

  • Inspect the work area, equipment, loading arms, hoses, valves, and related connections before, during, and after operations, and properly connect, disconnect, and move product safely within the assigned work area.

  • Comply with rail safety, hazmat, environmental, plant policy, standard operating procedure, permit, lockout/tagout, confined space, line-breaking, and other refinery safety requirements.


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Loader position is an entry-level Operations role responsible for safely loading and unloading a variety of products from rail cars, performing tanker and work area inspections, ensuring proper connection of loading arms and hoses, monitoring loading and unloading operations, and maintaining compliance with rail safety, hazmat, and plant operating requirements.
This role is designed to build foundational refinery operations knowledge while preparing employees for future Operations opportunities. After becoming qualified in the Loader role and as opportunities become available through the applicable internal processes, employees may move into other Operations roles and continue progressing toward qualified operator positions in those areas. Success in the Loader role requires a strong safety mindset, mechanical aptitude, initiative, reliability, and a willingness to continuously learn the next level of responsibility.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Load and unload hot oil rail cars following established procedures and safety requirements, including verifying proper flow, identifying abnormal conditions, and accurately documenting volumes or required operating information.
  • Inspect the work area, equipment, loading arms, hoses, valves, and related connections before, during, and after operations, and properly connect, disconnect, and move product safely within the assigned work area.
  • Comply with rail safety, hazmat, environmental, plant policy, standard operating procedure, permit, lockout/tagout, confined space, line-breaking, and other refinery safety requirements.
  • Build working knowledge of assigned operating areas, including equipment purpose, process flow, normal operating conditions, documentation requirements, and basic troubleshooting expectations.
  • Work safely around pumps, valves, tanks, piping, rail equipment, hot oil systems, and other refinery equipment while communicating effectively with Operations, supervision, maintenance, and other work groups.
  • Maintain housekeeping standards and promptly report unsafe conditions, equipment concerns, spills, leaks, or process abnormalities.
  • Participate in shift turnover, job briefings, safety meetings, training, cross-training, certifications, and area-specific qualification processes to support progression toward future operator roles.
  • Demonstrate initiative as a self-starter, show willingness to learn new skills, and use downtime productively for training, area familiarization, and improvement activities.
  • Actively learn the next position up, participate in cross-training opportunities, and pass off and maintain all certifications required for the assigned role.

Demonstrate dependability, sound judgment, teamwork, communication, and accountability consistent with expectations for future operator roles
QUALIFICATIONS
Education: High school diploma or GED required.
Experience: Entry-level position; prior industrial, mechanical, or safety-sensitive work experience preferred.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Must be able to climb ladders and stairs, work at heights, and navigate uneven surfaces in an operating refinery environment. Required to wear PPE including FRC clothing, hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toe boots, and hearing protection. May be required to wear respiratory protection and personal gas monitors, including H2S and LEL monitors. Must be able to work in outdoor conditions including extreme heat, cold, and inclement weather. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. Must pass pre-employment physical examination.
ABOUT FJ MANAGEMENT & BIG WEST OIL
Big West Oil LLC is proudly owned and operated by FJ Management, ranked #134 on Forbes' 2025 America's Top Private Companies list with over 15,000 employees. Our North Salt Lake refinery employs approximately 270 people with an average tenure of 12 years-a testament to our family-oriented culture.
We pride ourselves on environmental stewardship and our commitment to employees and our community. Through FJ Management's Call to Action Philanthropies, Big West Oil helps fund initiatives that have invested more than $130 million since 2007 to strengthen working families across the West and Midwest-supporting affordable housing, scholarships, food security, and early childhood education.
Position Benefits:
  • Entry rate of pay $29.39
  • Strong bonus program
  • Retirement programs - 401(k) matching and additional contributions
  • Competitive health insurance - Medical, Dental, Vision.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.