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Hardware Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Follows department standard operating procedures. * Performs setup of hardware machines per manufacturer recommendation. * Utilizes the correct tooling to ensure that hardware is secure, sits flush ...

Operates push pedal on equipment to install a variety of hardware into sheet metal. * Tests and adjusts equipment under the guidance of management. * Maintains high level of productivity and produces ...

Operates push pedal on equipment to install a variety of hardware into sheet metal. * Tests and adjusts equipment under the guidance of management. * Maintains high level of productivity and produces ...

Operates push pedal on equipment to install a variety of hardware into sheet metal. * Tests and adjusts equipment under the guidance of management. * Maintains high level of productivity and produces ...

Job Type Full-time, Temporary Description Hardware Operator II Full-time Temporary Onsite Day Shift 4:30 am - 1:10 pm Swing Shift 1:10 pm - 11:40 pm Hourly $22 - $26 *We are not currently working ...

Founding Hardware Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$145K - $192K/yr

It has to meet certification standards for operating in aircraft. And it has to be built fast ... Build hardware that is ruggedized for cockpit environments - thermal, vibrational, and ...

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Hardware Operator information

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$12

$24

$48

How much do hardware operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for hardware operator in the United States is $24.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Hardware Operator?

A Hardware Operator is a professional responsible for managing and monitoring the operation of computer hardware systems, peripheral equipment, and related devices. Their duties include setting up equipment, running processes, troubleshooting hardware issues, and ensuring that systems run smoothly and efficiently. Hardware Operators often work in data centers, manufacturing plants, or IT departments, where they ensure the continuous and reliable operation of critical hardware infrastructure.

What is the difference between Hardware Operator vs Equipment Technician?

AspectHardware OperatorEquipment Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsMaintenance workshops, industrial facilities, manufacturing sites
Job FocusOperating and monitoring machineryMaintaining, repairing, troubleshooting equipment
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, production plantsIndustrial, manufacturing, and maintenance companies

While both roles work within industrial environments, Hardware Operators primarily focus on operating machinery, whereas Equipment Technicians handle maintenance and repairs. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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

To thrive as a Hardware Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with industrial control systems, diagnostic tools, and safety protocols is essential for daily tasks. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills that help prevent errors and ensure smooth operations. These competencies are vital for minimizing equipment downtime, maintaining productivity, and ensuring workplace safety.

What are some common challenges Hardware Operators face, and how can they effectively address them?

Hardware Operators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, managing time-sensitive tasks, and adapting to rapidly changing technology. To address these challenges, it's important to develop strong problem-solving skills, stay current with equipment manuals and updates, and communicate proactively with technical support teams. Collaborating closely with engineers and IT staff can also help resolve issues quickly and minimize downtime, ensuring smooth operations.
More about Hardware Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Hardware Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,154 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Hardware Operator

NW Employment Solutions

Tualatin, OR

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

NW Employment Solutions is partnered with a Metal Components Company in Tualatin and we are looking to add an Hardware Machine Operator to join our team.

Shift- 6am-2:30pm
Pay- $18-20 DOE

Primary Job Function
This position develops setups and installs various types of hardware per customer prints and manufacturer specifications.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Follows department standard operating procedures.
  • Performs setup of hardware machines per manufacturer recommendation.
  • Utilizes the correct tooling to ensure that hardware is secure, sits flush, protects threads, in the proper quantities, in the proper holes, to required torque in/out values.
  • Performs a broad range of simple to highly complex configurations, utilizing multiple types, lengths and widths in an array of patterns and flanges.
  • Installs pop rivets into complete units and sub-assemblies per customer prints.
  • Assemblies must meet cosmetic standards and function per customer needs.
  • Follows established safety protocols including required usage of PPE; helps to maintain a safe working environment.
  • Keeps work area clean and organized.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications and Experience
Minimum skills, knowledge, education, certifications and related job experience that employee typically must have to perform essential functions of the job acceptably.
  • Knowledge of and ability to properly use a rivet gun and various types and makes of hardware and pop rivets.
  • Strong blueprint reading, math and measurement skills.
  • Strong inspection skills.
  • Ability to determine whether hardware types, lengths and sizes are correct, and that installation does not harm thread.
  • Ability to understand proper setup and pop rivet new product lines and assure the correct head types, grip lengths and material type rivets are being used.
  • Ability to develop effective methods for installing hardware into parts or pop riveting assemblies.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Dependability; honesty & integrity; a positive, proactive attitude; ability to use time productively, working with minimal supervision both individually and as part of a team.
  • Ability to work overtime as required.
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to: (a) stand (up to 8 hours per shift), (b) walk, (c) use hands to touch, (d) reach with hands and arms, (e) climb or balance, (f) stoop, (g) kneel, crouch, or crawl, and (h) and talk or hear.
  • The employee may frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
May be exposed to noise, dust, fumes, airborne particles, smoke and temperature extremes within OSHA Permissible Exposure Levels
If you or someone you know is interested in this position call/text "Hardware" to Erin @ 971-601-4983