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

Dishwasher

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Maintain a clean work environment by cleaning kitchen machines and appliances (coffee makers, pans ... Education:no requirementsEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

Stacker(4)

Columbia, SC · On-site

$18/hr

Stacker Operator Location: US Brick, Columbia SC Plant Job Type: Full-time Job Classification ... Inspecting and packaging brick into automatic machine in fast paced production. - Maintain clean ...

HVAC TECHNICIAN

Columbia, SC · On-site

$43K - $54K/yr

Columbia, SC Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 202500440 Department: GENERAL SERVICES Division ... Operates and maintains a variety of equipment, such as vehicle, HVAC equipment, ice machines ...

Chick-fil-A Culinary Prep

Columbia, SC · On-site

$11.75 - $14.75/hr

Cleaning and working on machines * Washing dishes * Quality control and product time/temperature ... Most Chick-fil-A restaurants are locally owned and operated by independent, franchised Operators ...

Electrician

Camden, SC · On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

You'll ensure our machinery and equipment are operating at their best, troubleshoot and fix ... This role is a full-time permanent position working Friday - Sunday 12 hour day shift with a 12 ...

Electrician

Camden, SC

$20.50 - $28/hr

You'll ensure our machinery and equipment are operating at their best, troubleshoot and fix ... This role is a full-time permanent position working Friday - Sunday 12 hour day shift with a 12 ...

Electrician

Camden, SC

$20.50 - $28/hr

You'll ensure our machinery and equipment are operating at their best, troubleshoot and fix ... This role is a full-time permanent position working Friday - Sunday 12 hour day shift with a 12 ...

Showing results 41-60

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 17, 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 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 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 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.

Pre-Fabrication Department Lead

AVANTech, LLC

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

AVANTech, LLC solvessome of the most challenging problems in the water industry - from being firstresponders to the Fukushima Nuclear Plant meltdown to implementing patentedfirst-of-its-kind technology. AVANTech's goal is to improve the environment aroundus and support our clients with innovative sustainable water treatmentsolutions.
Job Summary
The Pre-Fabrication Department Lead is responsible for guiding a team of skilled operators and fabricators to ensure safe, high-quality, and on-time production. In this role, you will balance daily hands-on fabrication operations with personnel management, knocking down barriers for your team, ensuring strict adherence to quality protocols, and keeping production metrics on track.
A Day in the Life:
On any given day, your routine will blend floor leadership, technical execution, and quality oversight:
  • Kickoff & Coordination: start the day by reviewing production schedules, assigning tasks to team members, and conducting a morning huddle to discuss safety and production goals
  • On-the-Floor Leadership: Spend significant time on the shop floor managing the team, answering technical questions, and actively eliminating bottlenecks to keep your team "rolling"
  • Advanced Machinery Operations: Step in to set up, operate, or troubleshoot our specialized fabrication machinery (including our plate roller, angle roller, CNC machine, and waterjet) when specialized technical expertise or cross-coverage is required
  • Rigorous Quality Control: Review process travelers, verify part dimensions, and ensure 100% material traceability. You will work closely with Quality Control to maintain strict compliance, especially on high-stakes or nuclear-grade equipment
  • Mentorship & Accountability: Train newer team members on our specific line-up of equipment and processes. Monitor attendance, punctuality, and attention to detail across your shift, addressing any performance or rework issues in real-time
  • Continuous Improvement: Track production time, identify process inefficiencies, and collaborate with management on workflow optimization

What Will Set You Up for Success:
The ideal candidate isn't just a great fabricator, they are an organized communicator and a natural problem solver. You will thrive in this role if you possess:
  • A "Lead by Example" Work Ethic: Exceptional personal attendance, punctuality, and a proactive attitude that sets the standard for the entire department
  • A Safety-First Mindset: An uncompromising dedication to both your personal safety and the safety of every employee on your floor
  • Technical Adaptability: Deep familiarity with a variety of fabrication equipment. Because we utilize single, specialized units of key machinery, your ability to jump in, dial in dimensions, and keep these critical machines running smoothly is paramount.
  • Obsessive Attention to Detail: A habit of checking behind yourself and your team, ensuring parts are verified correctly the first time to eliminate costly rework down the line
  • Cool Under Pressure: The ability to pivot when production schedules change, material variances occur, or technical issues arise, keeping your team calm and focused.

Job Requirements
Experience & Education
3-5 years of experience in an industrial fabrication or manufacturing environment, with a proven track record of informal or formal leadership.
Strong hands-on experience operating industrial fabrication machinery (specifically rollers, CNC machinery, and waterjets).
Ability to read and accurately interpret complex industrial blueprints, weld symbols, and technical fabrication drawings.
Skills & Knowledge
Experience working with strict quality assurance tracking, process travelers, and material traceability protocols (experience with Q1 Nuclear Grade or similar highly regulated manufacturing is a strong plus)
Demonstrated ability to motivate a team, manage floor workflows, train junior personnel, and handle minor conflict resolution.
Proficiency with basic spreadsheet software (e.g. Excel) for time studies, tracking production logs, or inventory management.
Physical & Environmental Requirements
Must be able to stand, walk, and lift up to 75 lbs regularly in accordance with company standard safety policies.
Comfortable working in a heavy industrial shop environment around heavy machinery, wearing all required PPE at all times.
High school diploma or equivalent, additional education preferred.
Must be able to lift up to 50lbs, stand for extended periods of time, read and walk. Candidates must be able to pass drug test, physical and possible background check. Responsible for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste materials in compliance with federal, state, and company environmental regulations.
Benefits:
4 day work week
Varied insurance offerings with company matching
Opportunity for advancement
Job Type: Full-time,non-exempt, hourly.
AVANTech, LLC is an Affirmative Action/EqualOpportunity Employer