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First Shift Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

Machinist - 1st Shift

Pottstown, PA · On-site

$35 - $38.50/hr

Starting Pay: $35 - $38.50 per hour Shift: 1st Hours: 7 am - 3 pm What We Offer: * Weekly Friday pay * Earn up to 2 weeks paid time off your first year * 7 paid holidays and 2 personal days each year

Machinist - 1st Shift

Pottstown, PA · On-site

$35 - $38.50/hr

Starting Pay: $35 - $38.50 per hour Shift: 1st Hours: 7 am - 3 pm What We Offer: * Weekly Friday pay * Earn up to 2 weeks paid time off your first year * 7 paid holidays and 2 personal days each year

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Denver, PA

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Bench Dogs is currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team on 1st shift. If you're interested in being considered for the position, please apply and share your resume. We look forward to ...

New

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Denver, PA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Bench Dogs is currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team on 1st shift. If you're interested in being considered for the position, please apply and share your resume. We look forward to ...

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Denver, PA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Bench Dogs is currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team on 1st shift. If you're interested in being considered for the position, please apply and share your resume. We look forward to ...

New

We have an exciting opportunity for an 1st shift Production Assembler to come and be part of a successful and growing window and door manufacturing company. Compensation: $18.00/hr Hours: 6:00am-2 ...

We have an exciting opportunity for an 1st shift Production Assembler to come and be part of a successful and growing window and door manufacturing company. Compensation: $18.00/hr Hours: 6:00am-2 ...

Lead 1st Shift

Fredericksburg, PA · On-site

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

Join the Company that is 100% committed to moving the bar higher. Your future belongs at the home of the Excellent Chicken...Bell and Evans! Job Summary (See the Essential Duties and Responsibilities ...

Lead 1st Shift

Fredericksburg, PA · On-site

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

Join the Company that is 100% committed to moving the bar higher. Your future belongs at the home of the Excellent Chicken...Bell and Evans! Job Summary (See the Essential Duties and Responsibilities ...

Job Title: Welder This position involves the use of various hand, power, and pneumatic tools for fabricating and finishing processes. Proficiency in MIG and TIG welding is required, along with the ...

... varied shift assignments as required including Saturdays when needed · Ability to work in a fast paced manufacturing environment · Possess good communication skills, both written and oral · ...

Welder - 1st Shift

Morgantown, PA

$19 - $25/hr

Welder - 1st Shift Be the spark behind the strongest trucks on the road--join our welding team and make your mark! Location: Morgantown, PA Make any day a pay day with on demand pay! Your Impact ...

Welder - 1st Shift

Morgantown, PA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Welder - 1st Shift Be the spark behind the strongest trucks on the road-join our welding team and make your mark! Location: Morgantown, PA Make any day a pay day with on demand pay! Your Impact - Big ...

Welder - 1st Shift

Morgantown, PA

$19 - $25/hr

Welder - 1st Shift Be the spark behind the strongest trucks on the road--join our welding team and make your mark! Location: Morgantown, PA Make any day a pay day with on demand pay! Your Impact ...

Welder - 1st Shift

Morgantown, PA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Welder - 1st Shift Be the spark behind the strongest trucks on the road-join our welding team and make your mark! Location: Morgantown, PA Make any day a pay day with on demand pay! Your Impact - Big ...

Scale Operator- 1st Shift

Birdsboro, PA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Shift: 1st Shift (6:00am - 2:30pm) Monday - Friday w/rotating Saturdays Essential Functions: * Data entry * Customer service * Occasionally enters weight information into the Weigh-it computer ...

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Showing results 1-20

First Shift information

See Reading, PA salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do first shift jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for first shift in Reading, PA is $14.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.69 and $15.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does first shift mean in a job posting?

The term 'First Shift' refers to a standard work period that typically takes place during daytime hours, often starting in the early morning and ending in the afternoon. This shift is also sometimes called the 'day shift.' The exact hours can vary by employer, but common times are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM or 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. First shift is popular for those who prefer a daytime work schedule and want evenings and nights free for personal activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first shift supervisor?

To thrive as a First Shift Supervisor, you need strong leadership abilities, time management, and a solid understanding of operational procedures, typically supported by prior supervisory or manufacturing experience. Familiarity with scheduling software, production tracking systems, and safety regulations is often required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and team-building skills help foster a productive work environment. These competencies are critical for maintaining workflow efficiency, ensuring safety, and achieving shift goals.

What are some challenges commonly faced by employees working the first shift, and how can they be managed?

Employees working the first shift often start their workday early in the morning, which can be challenging for those not accustomed to early wake-up times. This schedule can also mean navigating busy commutes and adjusting to earlier bedtimes to ensure adequate rest. However, the first shift typically offers the advantage of having afternoons and evenings free, which can improve work-life balance. To manage these challenges, it's helpful to establish a consistent sleep routine, prepare for the workday the night before, and make use of productivity tools to stay organized during peak hours when most teams are active.

What is the difference between First Shift vs Second Shift?

AspectFirst ShiftSecond Shift
Typical Hours8:00 AM - 4:00 PM4:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Work EnvironmentDaytime operations, regular business hoursEvening/night operations, may have different staffing
Common IndustriesManufacturing, office jobs, retailManufacturing, logistics, customer service
Credentials NeededUsually the same for both shifts, no specific shift requirementSame as First Shift

First Shift and Second Shift primarily differ in working hours. First Shift typically runs during daytime hours, while Second Shift covers evening or night hours. Both shifts often require similar skills and credentials, but the work environment and schedule can impact work-life balance and commute. Employers in manufacturing, logistics, and customer service commonly operate multiple shifts to meet demand.

What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for First Shift jobs?

Cities near Reading, PA with the most First Shift job openings:

Infographic showing various First Shift job openings in Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,140 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

Machinist - 1st Shift

Schwans

Pottstown, PA • On-site

$35 - $38.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Starting Pay: $35 - $38.50 per hour
Shift: 1st
Hours: 7 am - 3 pm
What We Offer:
  • Weekly Friday pay
  • Earn up to 2 weeks paid time off your first year
  • 7 paid holidays and 2 personal days each year
  • Comprehensive Benefit Package, including:
    • 3 Health Plans
    • 2 Dental Plans
    • 2 Vision Plans
    • Immediately vesting 401k with up to 4% Company Match
    • Short- & Long-Term Disability Plans
    • Numerous company-paid benefits, including, financial planning, employee assistance program, life insurance, virtual physical therapy assistance, and caregiving support

If you are interested in joining a growing company with popular retail brands such as Red Baron®, Tony's®, and Freschetta® pizza; Mrs. Smith's® and Edwards® desserts; bibigo® and Pagoda® Asian-style snacks, this role is for you. This is a full-time position in a food manufacturing environment with opportunities for advancement!
What You Will Do:
  • Ensure operation of machinery and mechanical equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements on conveyor systems and production machines; troubleshoot malfunctions
  • Setup and tear down equipment; performs major repairs, construction, fabrication, and installation of new plant equipment
  • Locate sources of problems by observing mechanical devices in operation, listening for problems, and using precision measuring and testing instruments
  • Remove defective parts by dismantling components using hoists and hand and power tools
  • Performs minor to major maintenance repairs including lifting positioning and fastening objects using hand tools and power tools and welding on food equipment to food safe specifications
  • Perform advanced maintenance duties using hoists and hand and power tools such as reading mechanical schematics, cut & key a shaft, broach a sprocket, change gear head, weld stainless metal, use a metal sheer, use a metal bender, cut & crimp ends on hydraulic hose and cut & lace belting
  • Help control downtime by informing production workers of routine maintenance techniques, monitoring compliance
  • Work in a safe manner with a sense of urgency while maintaining a safe and orderly work area
  • Participate in and successfully complete management-assigned training directed at increasing job-related trade skills
  • Responsible for the training of lower-level maintenance employees in keeping all equipment in good repair and regularly serviced
  • Performs fabrication of equipment used for processing and packaging such as fabricating guards, doors, and steps, using a lathe for shaft and sprocket creation, and fabricate air cylinder mounts, sensor mounts, and conveyors
  • The use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required; including but not limited to bump cap, safety glasses/goggles, ear plugs, hair and beard nets, gloves and safety shoes or rubber boots

What You Will Bring:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required, two-year degree in specialized maintenance trade preferred and 5+ years of related experience
  • Operating knowledge of machine shop related equipment and CNC programming preferred
  • Trade school education or vocational training preferred
  • Experience in tool and die work required
  • Welding experience required
  • Advanced mechanical knowledge, electrical and basic to advanced building skills
  • Ability to read and interpret safety documents, maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
  • Experience with high-speed manufacturing equipment
  • Ability to complete work orders and enter the required paperwork into a computer
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure
  • Demonstrated interpersonal skills to communicate in a professional manner with co-workers and supervisors
  • Must be able to lift up to ninety (90) lbs.

CJ Schwan's and its employing subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, age, race, color, religion, gender, veteran status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by law. Schwan's Company also provides reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities or based on a sincerely held religious belief, in accordance with applicable laws. If you need to inquire about an accommodation or need assistance with completing the application process, please email career.search@schwans.com.
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Schwan's Home Delivery logo

About Schwan's Home Delivery

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1952, we have been delivering delicious meal solutions for you to share with family and friends -- any time of the day and for any occasion. Some may know us for our ice cream but millions more choose us for our superior quality foods such as wild-caught seafood, USDA choice meats, flavorful fruits and vegetables and of course, decadent desserts. All 100% satisfaction guaranteed. And all frozen fresh and delivered to your door.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Marshall, MN, US

Year founded

1952