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Entry Level Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ingevity

Entry Level Operator

Wickliffe, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position is responsible for operating production equipment in the carbon plant. How you will impact Ingevity : * Monitor DCS graphics and controls to effectively operator equipment * Respond to ...

Huron, Inc.

Entry Level Operator

Lexington, MI · On-site

$17.74/hr

Looking for something new and exciting? Come join us at Huron! Veritas is a global team committed to operational excellence, partnering with customers for mutual success and maximizing business value.

Huron

Entry Level Operator

Lexington, MI

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Looking for something new and exciting? Come join us at Huron! Veritas is a global team committed to operational excellence, partnering with customers for mutual success and maximizing business value.

Huron, Inc.

Entry Level Operator

Lexington, MI · On-site

$17.74/hr

Looking for something new and exciting? Come join us at Huron! Veritas is a global team committed to operational excellence, partnering with customers for mutual success and maximizing business value.

Huron

Entry Level Operator

Lexington, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Looking for something new and exciting? Come join us at Huron! Veritas is a global team committed to operational excellence, partnering with customers for mutual success and maximizing business value.

Great Hire

Entry Level Machine Operator

Anaheim, CA

$20 - $50/hr

Multiple skill levels are welcome - from entrylevel operators to senior machinists. Pay Range: $20-$50/hr depending on role & experience (EntryLevel Operator Senior Machinist) Responsibilities ...

Northrop Grumman

$16/hr

Northrop Grumman is currently seeking union Operators for our team in Rocket Center, West Virginia, just outside of Cumberland, Maryland. The Allegany Ballistics Laboratory (ABL) site in Rocket ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

$16/hr

Northrop Grumman is currently seekingunion Operators for our team in Rocket Center, West Virginia , just outside of Cumberland, Maryland. The Allegany Ballistics Laboratory (ABL) site in Rocket ...

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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 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in the United States is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.99 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.
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Entry Level Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,327 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Entry Level Operator

Ingevity

Wickliffe, KY • On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Ingevity rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 103 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Job Family Group:
Manufacturing Operations
Are you ready to do something remarkable? Ready to collaborate with an incredible team to solve problems that improve people's lives? Meet Ingevity.
At Ingevity, we develop innovations that purify, protect and enhance the world around us. Our products enable oil to flow better, crops to grow fuller, roads to last longer and ensure that the air we all breathe is cleaner.
Our people come from all different backgrounds and help reimagine new possibilities daily. We understand there is no challenge too big and no contribution too small. We seek out new ideas for tackling complex problems and celebrate achieving the improbable. We value each person's unique talents and synergize them to create meaningful impact and sustainable solutions for our customers and our world.
Bold. Energetic. Ingenious. Genuine. If these qualities describe you, we'd love for you to join Ingevity!
Position overview: This position is responsible for operating production equipment in the carbon plant.
How you will impact Ingevity:
  • Monitor DCS graphics and controls to effectively operator equipment
  • Respond to DCS alarms in a timely manner
  • Ensure the DCS controls are monitored at all times by qualified individuals
  • Operate equipment in a stable manner during "start up" or "shut down" conditions
  • Report and address any abnormalities
  • Perform minor equipment troubleshooting activities
  • Ability to conduct risk assessment and authorize maintenance personnel to conduct work in their assigned area
  • Perform any standard testing required for the area
  • Follows DOIs (Daily Operating Instructions)
  • Emails required positions on vital information
  • Records relevant information in log sheets at end of the shift
  • Perform Lock Out Tag Out as necessary
  • Ensure environmental permits are satisfied
  • Keeps work area clean
  • Participate in incident investigations as needed

What you need to Succeed:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Two years of production experience
  • Demonstrate math skills commensurate with the job requirements.
  • Strong written and oral communication
  • Strong computer skills
  • Ability to think ahead and coordinate - be proactive
  • Ability to manage situations under pressure
  • Pay keen attention to detail to detect process abnormalities

Physical Requirements:
The requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee:
  • Must be able to work at heights
  • Must be able to work in confined spaces
  • Must not have a problem working outside (in the elements) for short periods of time
  • Must be able to observe and hear warning signs and signals within all areas of the company
  • Must be able to stand 12 hours a day (with periodic breaks allowed) and walk up to an hour
  • Employee must be able to wear protective eye wear
  • Employee must be able to wear protective hearing gear
  • Specific vision ability required by this job includes close vision
  • Must be able to type on computer keyboard

Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an encountered while performing the essential functions of this job:
  • Work is performed primarily in a outdoor or warehouse environment.
  • Work is performed in a dusty/carbon environment.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to low decibels but is constant
  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced, team environment
  • Must be able to stay working at a given station, standing or sitting for up to 12 hours at a time
  • Pay keen attention to detail to detect process abnormalities

This role is eligible for relocation assistance.
This role is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. The successful candidate must not now, or in the future, require sponsorship to work in the US.
Ingevity is a company made up of extraordinary people of every race, religion and background, all worthy of the same dignity. Our differences are one of our great strengths. Join us in building a culture of increasing diversity and respect - a culture where everyone belongs.
Ingevity is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled.
Recruiting Agencies: Ingevity does not accept unsolicited resumes and therefore, will not be responsible for any fees associated with unsolicited resumes.

What Ingevity employees say

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About Ingevity

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ingevity, we develop innovations that purify, protect and enhance the world around us. Our products enable oil to flow better, crops to grow fuller, roads to last longer and ensure that the air we all breathe is cleaner.

Industry

Chemical manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Charleston, SC, US

Year founded

1846

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