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Head Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

GRIMES INDUSTRIAL INC

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Laser Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Monitor machine efficiency and ensure all equipment is operational * Accurately use a tape measure ... Can operate forklift / over-head cranes as needed to move/load material * Possess and display ...

RP Skilled Services

CNC Mill & Lathe Machinist

Humble, TX · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

The successful candidate will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining CNC (Computer Numerical Control) lathe machines to produce high\-precision parts according to engineering ...

RP Skilled Services

CNC Mill & Lathe Machinist

Houston, TX · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Need to have experience in complete set\-up and operating CNC Mills and Lathes preferably HAAS. \n \n \n Requirements: \n \n \n \- Proficiency in CNC machining and HAAS programming \n \n \n ...

Assa Abloy

Production Worker - PreAsembly (temp)

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Operate machinery used in the production process, or assist machine operators.2% * Examine products ... Screwdrivers - Phillips head screwdrivers; Straight screwdrivers * Slings - Material-hoisting ...

ASSA ABLOY

Production Worker - PreAsembly (temp)

Houston, TX

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Operate machinery used in the production process, or assist machine operators.2% * Examine products ... Screwdrivers - Phillips head screwdrivers; Straight screwdrivers * Slings - Material-hoisting ...

MHI

Head of Information Technology

Houston, TX · On-site

... machinery, defense and space systems sectors. Our culture embraces diversity and cooperation, and ... operating expenses, and maximize revenues. * Other duties as assigned. MINIMUM REQUIRED ...

Viridien

Head of Applied AI Products

Houston, TX

Develop domain-specific machine learning models in collaboration with subject matter experts ... Comfortable operating in high-ambiguity, fast-evolving technical environments. Learning and ...

TPI Staffing, Inc

Lab Technicians

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... machines. · The qualified technician will work directly with advance robotics and automated ... Head of OMD Production Line Department. · Possible soldering techniques needed for equipment ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsHead Machine Operator JobsHead Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Head Machine Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

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How much do head machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for head machine operator in Houston, TX is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Head Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience with manufacturing processes, and often a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with CNC machines, PLC systems, and safety protocols is typically required, alongside certifications such as OSHA safety training. Leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for supervising teams and ensuring smooth operations. These skills are vital for maximizing productivity, maintaining safety standards, and minimizing downtime in manufacturing environments.

What is a head machine operator?

Head Machine Operators are responsible for overseeing the operation of machinery in manufacturing or production environments. They lead teams of machine operators, ensure machines are running efficiently, and troubleshoot any technical issues that arise. Their duties often include training new operators, maintaining safety standards, and coordinating maintenance schedules. Head Machine Operators play a critical role in maximizing productivity and ensuring product quality.

What is the difference between Head Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectHead Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in machinery operation and safetyUsually needs basic machinery operation certifications
Work EnvironmentSupervises and manages machine operation in manufacturing or processing plantsOperates machinery under supervision in similar settings
ResponsibilitiesOversees machine setup, troubleshooting, and team coordinationPerforms routine machine operation tasks

The Head Machine Operator generally has additional responsibilities, including supervising other operators and ensuring safety standards, while Machine Operators focus on operating machinery efficiently. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in manufacturing environments, but the Head Machine Operator holds a more supervisory position.

What are some common challenges faced by a head machine operator, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Head Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, managing workflow disruptions, and ensuring team adherence to safety protocols. Effective communication with maintenance staff and regular preventive maintenance can minimize equipment downtime. Additionally, fostering a collaborative environment helps resolve issues quickly and ensures production targets are met safely and efficiently. Continuous training and staying updated on new machinery technologies also support smoother operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Head Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Head Machine Operator job openings:
Head Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Machine Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,123 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Laser Operator

GRIMES INDUSTRIAL INC

Tomball, TX • On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

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Job description

Minimum requirements:

  • 2-5 yrs experience on a Piranha Laser Table or similar machinery in a manufacturing environment
  • Monitor machine efficiency and ensure all equipment is operational
  • Accurately use a tape measure, calipers and possess the ability to read drawings
  • Able to work with hand / power tools (lens extractor, wrenches, grease gun, deburring tool, pliers, grinder, hole punch, mag-drill, drill press, etc.)
  • Can operate forklift / over-head cranes as needed to move/load material
  • Possess and display attention to detail
  • Able to perform basic quality checks of work in process
  • Able to transpose material markings to parts as needed
  • Reliable and can attend scheduled shift consistently
  • Open to be trained in company operations and systems
  • Communicates well with supervisors
  • Work safely with proper PPE at all times
  • Follow all company health and safety standards
  • Has reliable means of transportation

The ideal candidate will be able to:

  • Piranha Laser Table- Set-Up / Operate / Maintain / *Program
  • Armada Press Brake – Set-Up / Operate / Maintain / *Program
  • Miller Robot Welder - Set-Up / Operate / Maintain / *Program
  • Piranha Plate Roll - Set-Up / Operate / Maintain
  • Piranha Iron Worker - Set-Up / Operate / Maintain
  • Equipment manufactures training
  • Self-motivated with a drive for improvement
  • Perform material nesting via Sigma-Nest and EJE
  • Able to suggest improvements in operations and processes
  • Train co-workers on equipment for redundancy in production
  • The ability to program such equipment operations would be very beneficial and targeted for advancement. Fabrication abilities such as fitting and welding will be viewed are also desired.

Environment:

  • Shop work environment will require standing on a concrete floor for 8-10 hr shift and occasionally lifting as much as 50 lbs
  • Proper PPE will be required at all times
  • Noise levels typically experienced in a fabrication shop can be expected
  • Small company / family atmosphere therefore opportunities to shine are easily noticed

Company Description

At Grimes Industrial, Inc., we operate with honesty and integrity. We’re quality focused and strive to always maintain accountability both with ourselves, as well as with our clients. We are committed to being proactive, instead of reactive, which has help cultivate our “continuous improvement” mindset here at GII. We hope to exemplify reliability and professionalism for anyone who does business with us and we know that responsiveness will remain key to our success.