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Finishing Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Finishing Operator

Mills River, NC ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

The Machine Operator - Finishing/Slitting, based in the Mills River Factory, reports directly to the Shift Supervisor and is responsible for performing slitting and rewinding operations to produce ...

KP is looking for a Machine Operator - Print Finishing at our Renton location. If you're seeking a meaningful role where you can make a real difference, we welcome you to jump aboard and join our ...

Now hiring Machine Operators on 1st and 2nd shift right here in Watertown, WI! Previous forklift ... Operate parts washers and other finishing machines * Load and unload trucks by hand * Back up ...

KP is looking for a Machine Operator - Print Finishing at our Renton location. If you're seeking a meaningful role where you can make a real difference, we welcome you to jump aboard and join our ...

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Finishing Machine Operator information

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$13

$19

$25

How much do finishing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for finishing machine operator in the United States is $19.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Finishing Machine Operators?

Finishing Machine Operators are skilled workers who operate machinery that completes the final steps in the production of products, such as textiles, paper, or metal goods. Their responsibilities include setting up, monitoring, and adjusting machines that perform tasks like trimming, polishing, coating, or packaging finished items. They ensure the quality and consistency of products by conducting inspections and making necessary adjustments. Finishing Machine Operators also maintain equipment and follow safety protocols in manufacturing environments.

What does a finishing operator do?

A finishing machine operator is responsible for operating equipment that completes the manufacturing process by trimming, polishing, or assembling products to meet quality standards. They set up, monitor, and adjust machines, inspect finished items for defects, and ensure safety procedures are followed in a manufacturing environment. Attention to detail and technical skills are important for this role.

What is the difference between Finishing Machine Operator vs Cutting Machine Operator?

AspectFinishing Machine OperatorCutting Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications may be required
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, production linesFactories, manufacturing plants, production lines
Industry UsageTextile, metal, woodworking, plasticsTextile, metal, plastics, woodworking
Job FocusOperating finishing machines to smooth, polish, or assemble productsOperating cutting machines to cut materials to specified sizes

Both roles involve operating machinery in manufacturing settings, often within similar industries. The main difference is that Finishing Machine Operators focus on finishing processes like polishing or assembling, while Cutting Machine Operators specialize in cutting raw materials to size. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and interests.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Finishing Machine Operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; their wages are usually hourly or salary-based and depend on experience and location. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $2000 daily often include specialized roles such as surgeons, corporate executives, or certain high-level consultants, but these are not related to finishing machine operation. Most manufacturing or industrial roles pay less than this amount daily.

What is the highest paid machine operator?

The highest paid machine operators are often those working in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing with advanced equipment. Senior or highly skilled operators with certifications and extensive experience can earn higher wages, sometimes exceeding $25 to $30 per hour or more depending on the region and industry.

What are some typical challenges Finishing Machine Operators face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Finishing Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and adhering to tight production schedules. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, regular equipment checks, and clear communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Proactively addressing minor malfunctions and staying organized with workflow can help operators minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Finishing Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Finishing Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with operating and maintaining finishing machinery, basic computer skills, and understanding safety protocols are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help operators excel in fast-paced manufacturing environments. These skills ensure that finished products meet quality standards, reduce downtime, and promote a safe and efficient workplace.

Is a CNC job a good career?

A CNC finishing machine operator role involves operating computer-controlled equipment to produce precise parts, requiring technical skills and attention to detail. It can offer stable employment with opportunities for skill development and advancement in manufacturing industries.
What cities are hiring for Finishing Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Finishing Machine Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Finishing Machine Operator jobs? The top employers for Finishing Machine Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Finishing Machine Operator jobs? For Finishing Machine Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Finishing Operator

Upm

Mills River, NC โ€ข On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Would you like to join a global, growing company that innovates for a more sustainable tomorrow? UPM could be the team for you. We are frontrunners in developing renewable alternatives to fossil-based materials. Besides enabling both businesses and consumers make more sustainable choices, we strive to create a positive UPM experience for all our employees around the world. We live by our values - trust and be trusted, achieve together, renew with courage. Together we can renew the everyday, for a future beyond fossils!

Learn more about us as a workplace upm.com/careers

We are looking for a Finishing Machine Operator for our team in UPM Adhesive Materials. The Machine Operator - Finishing/Slitting, based in the Mills River Factory, reports directly to the Shift Supervisor and is responsible for performing slitting and rewinding operations to produce high-quality reels that meet customer specifications and internal quality standards. This includes conducting visual inspections of all reels and supporting slitting operations as needed to maintain production flow and maximize efficiency.

Greetings from your future manager

At UPM, safety and responsibility come first. At Mills River, we work as one team, support each other, and continuously improve how weoperate. If you are motivated to learn and grow in a collaborative environment, we welcome you to join us. - Phil Matt, Operations Manager, Mills River Factory

What you will do

  • Follow all safety, quality, and standard work procedures; stop work and escalate any unsafe conditions.
  • Operate slitting and rewinding equipment to produce high-quality materials that meet customer and internal specifications.
  • Inspect materials for defects, troubleshoot issues, and support efficient equipment operation to minimize downtime.
  • Communicate effectively with team members and ensure smooth shift handoffs.
  • Maintain a clean, organized work area and support 5S and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Support overall production needs, including assisting across finishing, slitting, and packing operations as required.
  • Work collaboratively with the team to meet production goals and maintain reliable attendance.

Working schedule: This role operates on a 3-week rotating 12-hour shift schedule.


Who you are

  • Experience in a fast-paced manufacturing or production environment; lean manufacturing experience is a plus.
  • Comfortable using computers and systems, including data entry, navigating screens, and basic Microsoft Office.
  • Strong attention to detail with solid literacy and numeracy skills to support quality and documentation.
  • Clear communicator who works well in a team environment and collaborates across functions.
  • Safety-focused, reliable, and able to follow standard operating procedures consistently.
  • Adaptable and organized, with a willingness to learn, take on new tasks, and support continuous improvement efforts.
  • Forklift experience is a plus.

This is what we offer for you

  • Safety and well-being - We care about each other and the well-being of our colleagues. We prioritize the safety of all our employees, ensuring everyone returns home safely.

  • A meaningful job - We do our work with professional pride, producing high-quality, sustainable products for our customers globally. Our community is built on great team spirit and commitment.

  • Development opportunities - We offer you great opportunities to learn and grow throughout your career.

  • Caring for people and the environment - Sustainability is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to ambitious sustainability targets, and we keep aiming higher. Together we can create a future beyond fossils!

  • Comprehensive benefit package: UPM's benefit package includes medical, dental and vision insurance, paid time off and a 401(k) retirement plan.

Together we can renew the everyday for a future beyond fossils!

Additional information

The position holder reports directly to a Finishing Supervisor at our Mills River Factory.

To apply, please submit your resume by June 12, 2026. Applications must be submitted through our online application system; we are unable to accept resumes or inquiries via email or phone.

We review applications on a rolling basis and may contact qualified candidates prior to the application deadline.

For support with submitting your application, please contact ourHR Service Center atcareers@upm.comor tel.877-723-5247.

This job description is intended to be a guide and is not intended to be a contract of employment, explicit or implicit. All contents are subject to change at the sole discretion of the company. Cooperation is expected of all employees. Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Only candidates authorized to work within the United States without sponsorship will be considered.

UPM North America is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

UPM is a material solutions company, renewing products and entire value chains with an extensive portfolio of renewable fibres, advanced materials, decarbonization solutions, and communication papers. Our performance in sustainability has been recognized by third parties, including EcoVadis and the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. We operate globally and employ approximately 15,800 people worldwide, with annual sales of approximately 10.3 billion. Our shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd.

UPM - we renew the everyday

Read more: upm.com

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