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Full Time Machine Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Machine Operator - PL2 Waxer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Hourly Full-Time OT and Weekends may be required - Monday -Friday 2nd Shift (3:00pm-11:00pm) 3rd ... operating corrugated manufacturing press machine in which you are assigned. (rotary die cutters ...

Machine Operator/Material Handler

Lexington, SC · On-site

$16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Machine Operator/Material Handler Location: Lexington, South Carolina (Michelin US5) $16.00 hourly ... Now Hiring** Weekly Pay/Permanent full-time employment with Benefits** Company Description "The ...

Auto Hot Press Robot Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... full-time Auto Hot Press Robot Operator . SHIFT : 1st shift, Monday - Friday 6:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m ... Ability to use machinery and select the program needed for each order. Must be organized to ...

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Press Brake Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Loads sheet material onto press machine. * Compares job router to customer supplied print to verify ... We hire skilled workers on a full-time basis and offer a comprehensive benefits package, including ...

Machine Assembler

Lexington, SC · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description: $18.00+ per hour | Full-Time | Hiring Immediately 120 Glassmaster Road, Lexington, SC ... Follow all safety procedures, quality standards, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) * Support ...

First Shift Saw Operator

Sumter, SC · On-site

$13.75 - $16.25/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Job Summary: The Saw Operator will read blueprints, make adjustments ... Operates the machine, keeping an eye out for any defects or issues. * Uses measurement tools to ...

Cold Press Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Paid vacation and sick time We have an opening for a full-time Cold Press Operator second shift ... Machinery: Organization and selection of proper tooling to fulfill work requirements. Maintain ...

Cold Press Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Paid vacation and sick time We have an opening for a full-time Cold Press Operator second shift ... Machinery: Organization and selection of proper tooling to fulfill work requirements. Maintain ...

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, LEAD

Columbia, SC · On-site

$39K - $48K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Columbia, SC Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 202600111 Department: PUBLIC WORKS ADMINISTRATION ... Ability to lead, operate or repair complex machinery or equipment that requires extended training ...

General Operators 1st & 2nd Shift

Columbia, SC

$19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The ideal candidate will have experience operating various types of machinery, forklifts, and a ... Job Type: Full-time Benefits : * 7% Shift Differential * 401(k) 6% Match * 401(k) non-elective

Utility

Lexington, SC · On-site

$23.99/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Hourly Full-Time - 8 hour shifts 2nd shift (3pm-11pm) 3rd shift (11pm-7am) Physical Location ... Machine Operator experience preferred; strong knowledge of machines in a manufacturing setting

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Showing results 1-20

Full Time Machine Operator information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do full time machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time machine operator in Columbia, SC is $16.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Full Time Machine Operator vs Part Time Machine Operator?

AspectFull Time Machine OperatorPart Time Machine Operator
Work HoursTypically 35-40 hours per weekLess than 30 hours per week
CertificationsOften requires OSHA safety training and machinery certificationsMay require similar certifications but less frequently
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, factoriesSame as full-time, but with flexible scheduling
Employer UsageCommon in full-scale manufacturing operationsUsed for part-time shifts or seasonal work

Full Time Machine Operators work standard hours and often have benefits, while Part Time Machine Operators work fewer hours with more flexible schedules. Both roles require similar certifications and work in manufacturing environments, but the employment terms differ.

How much do you get paid as a full time machine operator?

Full-time machine operators typically earn an average annual salary between $35,000 and $55,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. Many roles also include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, and some positions require certifications or specific machinery skills.

What does a full time machine operator do?

A Full Time Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery in a manufacturing or production facility. Their duties typically include setting up equipment, monitoring machine performance, conducting quality checks, and performing basic troubleshooting or maintenance tasks. Machine operators ensure that production runs smoothly and safely, following company procedures and safety regulations. They may work with different types of machinery depending on the industry, such as packaging, fabrication, or assembly equipment. Attention to detail and mechanical aptitude are important skills for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time machine operator?

To thrive as a Full Time Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by relevant manufacturing experience. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like OSHA or forklift operation are typically required. Dependability, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills that set exceptional operators apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining production efficiency, ensuring workplace safety, and minimizing equipment downtime.

What are some common challenges full time machine operators face, and how can they be addressed?

Full Time Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as managing repetitive tasks, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and maintaining high safety standards. Staying alert and following established protocols helps minimize errors and accidents. Regular training, open communication with maintenance teams, and a proactive approach to equipment care can make day-to-day tasks more manageable. Collaborating with supervisors and peers also ensures that issues are quickly resolved, creating a safer and more efficient work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Full Time Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Full Time Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Full Time Machine Operator job openings in Columbia, SC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,995 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Machine Operator - Entry Level

Walker White Mechanical

Columbia, SC

$15 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Machine Operator – Entry Level

Launch Your Career in Sheet Metal Fabrication

Company: Walker White Mechanical

Location: Columbia, SC

Position Type: Full-Time

Compensation: Competitive Pay + Benefits

Training: Paid On-the-Job Training

Start a Skilled Trades Career with Walker White Mechanical

Walker White Mechanical is a leading mechanical contractor serving commercial and industrial clients throughout South Carolina. Known for our quality workmanship, strong reputation, and commitment to employee development, we specialize in HVAC, plumbing, and custom sheet metal fabrication.

As our fabrication shop continues to grow, we are looking for a motivated Entry-Level Machine Operator who is eager to learn a skilled trade and build a long-term career. No prior fabrication experience is required—we provide hands-on training and opportunities for advancement.

If you're dependable, mechanically inclined, and enjoy working with your hands, this could be the perfect opportunity to start your career in manufacturing and construction.

Position Overview

As an Entry-Level Machine Operator, you will work alongside experienced fabricators to produce sheet metal components used in commercial and industrial mechanical systems. You'll receive comprehensive on-the-job training while learning to operate fabrication equipment, read shop drawings, and follow industry-leading quality and safety standards.

This role offers an excellent pathway into the skilled trades with opportunities for long-term growth and advancement.

What You'll Do

  • Learn to operate and assist with setup of sheet metal fabrication equipment, including shears, press brakes, plasma tables, and related machinery
  • Measure, cut, bend, and form sheet metal according to shop drawings and specifications
  • Read and interpret basic blueprints, fabrication drawings, and work orders
  • Perform quality checks to ensure products meet company and project standards
  • Load, unload, and move materials safely throughout the fabrication shop
  • Assist experienced fabricators with daily production activities
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-focused work environment
  • Follow company procedures and safety guidelines at all times
  • Support production goals and assist the team in meeting project deadlines

What We're Looking For

Required

  • Strong work ethic and dependable attendance
  • Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn new skills
  • Ability to read a tape measure and perform basic math calculations
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks in a manufacturing setting
  • Ability to lift and move materials as needed

Preferred

  • Previous experience in manufacturing, fabrication, construction, warehouse operations, or skilled trades
  • Experience using hand and power tools
  • Basic blueprint reading skills

No prior sheet metal fabrication experience is required. We are willing to train motivated candidates who are eager to learn.

Why Join Walker White Mechanical?

At Walker White Mechanical, we believe in developing talent from within. We provide the training, support, and opportunities needed to help employees build rewarding careers in the skilled trades.

What We Offer

  • Competitive pay with opportunities for advancement and wage growth
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Paid, hands-on training and skill development
  • Stable, full-time employment with a growing company
  • Clear career paths within fabrication and mechanical construction
  • Clean, organized, and safety-focused fabrication facility
  • Team-oriented culture that values hard work, craftsmanship, and reliability
  • Opportunity to work on projects that support major commercial and industrial construction throughout South Carolina

Build Your Future with Walker White Mechanical

If you're ready to learn a valuable trade, develop new skills, and build a long-term career with a respected mechanical contractor, we encourage you to apply.

Apply today and take the first step toward a rewarding career in sheet metal fabrication with Walker White Mechanical.