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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

NESCO Inc

Forklift-Entry Level

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$14/hr

Forklift Operator - Entry Level Pay: $14.00/hour Schedule: Monday-Friday, 1st Shift (7:00 AM - 4:00 PM) Location: Recycling Facility A well-established recycling company is seeking a reliable ...

Cornell Pump LLC

CNC Machinist - 2nd Shift

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

While this is not an entry-level operator position, training and team support are provided to help you succeed and grow. What We Offer: Join a company with a long history of growth, innovation, and ...

Arclin

Chemical Production Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$31.38/hr

Pay: $23.88/hr for Operator E (Entry Level) - $31.38/hr for Operator A (Fully Trained) Chemical Production Operator Job Responsibilities: * Manufactures resin safely, according to procedure and ...

Arclin

Chemical Production Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$23.88 - $31.38/hr

Pay: $23.88/hr for Operator E (Entry Level) - $31.38/hr for Operator A (Fully Trained) Chemical Production Operator Job Responsibilities: * Manufactures resin safely, according to procedure and ...

BCForward

Warehouse Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$27.35/hr

Title: Warehouse Operator Payrate: $27.35/hr Hours- Monday - Friday 10:30pm to 7am; 3rd shift ... High school or GED education required * Entry level position; typically requires no experience

Buckeye Global

Palletizer Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

Palletizer Operator ** Duration: 1 Months Contract.(TEMP TO HIRE) **Schedule: 10:30PM to 7:00AM2 ... High school or GED education required* Entry level position; typically requires no experience* Must ...

New

BCForward

Forklift Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$26 - $27/hr

Forklift Operator Location: Portland, OR 97203 Expected Duration: 01+ Months * Individual must ... High school or GED education required * Entry level position; typically requires no experience

BCForward

Warehouse Forklift Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$27 - $29/hr

The palletizer operator must know and understand all the equipment including, but not limited to ... High school or GED education required * Entry level position; typically requires no experience

New

HP Products

Fabrication Associate - Entry Level

Portland, OR · On-site

$39K - $53K/yr

Ferguson is seeking a Fabrication Associate - Entry Level to join our team! Schedule: M-F 6:00am-2 ... Experience and training in operating machinery for the use of cutting and threading pipe according ...

SUPPLY.com

Fabrication Associate - Entry Level

Portland, OR · On-site

$39K - $53K/yr

Ferguson is seeking a Fabrication Associate - Entry Level to join our team! Schedule: M-F 6:00am-2 ... Experience and training in operating machinery for the use of cutting and threading pipe according ...

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All JobsOperator JobsEntry Level Operator JobsEntry Level Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$18

$22

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Portland, OR is $18.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.14 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Operator jobs in Portland, OR?

For Entry Level Operator jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:

Entry Level Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Portland, OR 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 $38,525 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Forklift-Entry Level

NESCO Inc

Clackamas, OR • On-site

$14/hr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Forklift Operator – Entry Level

Pay: $14.00/hour

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 1st Shift (7:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Location: Recycling Facility

A well-established recycling company is seeking a reliable Entry-Level Forklift Operator to join their team. This position involves operating a forklift to move, load, unload, and stage materials for shipment. The ideal candidate will be safety-conscious and ready to work in a physically demanding environment.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate a forklift to move pallets and materials throughout the facility
  • Load and unload materials from trucks and other vehicles
  • Stage products and materials for shipment
  • Accurately track and record materials handled
  • Follow all site safety procedures and company policies
Qualifications:
  • Prior experience in general labor, construction, or similar physical work
  • Familiarity with forklifts, pallet jacks, or other industrial equipment preferred
  • Ability to lift, carry, and move materials as part of daily duties
  • Comfortable working in a non-climate-controlled environment, including outdoor conditions
  • Must wear steel-toe boots/shoes (all other personal protective equipment will be provided)

This is a great opportunity for someone looking to gain hands-on experience in a supportive industrial setting. Dependability and a strong work ethic are essential.

Apply