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Heavy Machine Operator Jobs in Chattanooga, TN (NOW HIRING)

Thompson Pipe Group

Machine Operator

Sale Creek, TN · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Machine Operator Job Type: Full-time Pay: $17.00+ DOE 1st Shift Mon-Thurs. 6 am to 4:30 pm. Who We Are Thompson Pipe Group is a privately held family business of engineers, contractors, and ...

New

Mars, Incorporated

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator- 12 Hour Night Shift Mars Wrigley - TNN Site Chattanooga, TN Machine Operator 12 Hour Night Shift (following a 2-2-3 shift rotation) 8 hour 2nd Shift 3pm-11:30pm *Additional shift ...

Mars

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator- 12 Hour Night Shift Mars Wrigley - TNN Site Chattanooga, TN Machine Operator 12 Hour Night Shift (following a 2-2-3 shift rotation) 8 hour 2nd Shift 3pm-11:30pm *Additional shift ...

Integer

Machine Operator

Trenton, GA

$13.25 - $16/hr

Minimum Experience: 2 years company related work experience and/or 2 - 4 years' experience operating machinery in a regulated manufacturing environment; medical device experience preferred.

Loram

Machine Operator 1, TSO

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Machine Operator 1 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Department: Operations Reports to: Assistant Manager ... Heavy Maintenance/ Construction equipment maintenance. Basic administration computer skills.

Integer

Machine Operator

Trenton, GA

$13.25 - $16/hr

Machine Operator - 12-hour night shift Work Schedule 7:30 PM to 7:30 AM rotating weekends Job Summary The primary purpose of this job is to operate and monitor machines used in the production of the ...

Integer Holdings Corporation

Machine Operator

Trenton, GA · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Machine Operator - 12-hour night shift Work Schedule 7:30 PM to 7:30 AM rotating weekends Job Summary The primary purpose of this job is to operate and monitor machines used in the production of the ...

Integer Holdings Corporation

Machine Operator

Trenton, GA · On-site

$13.25 - $16/hr

Minimum Experience: 2 years company related work experience and/or 2 - 4 years' experience operating machinery in a regulated manufacturing environment; medical device experience preferred.

Integer

Machine Operator

Trenton, GA

$13.25 - $16/hr

Machine Operator - 12-hour night shift Work Schedule 7:30 PM to 7:30 AM rotating weekends Job Summary The primary purpose of this job is to operate and monitor machines used in the production of the ...

Columbus McKinnon Corporation

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Operate machines in Department 44 (hand tools, paint line, tap and thread) as required. * Perform and document all quality checks on any machine in the department. * Check, record, and adjust coolant ...

Coca-Cola Bottling UNITED

Machine Operator

Cleveland, TN

$14.25 - $17/hr

For qualified candidates we offer an amazing CDL Tuition Program reimbursable up to $5250 for CDL school tuition - ask your Recruiter for details The Machine Operator I is responsible for producing ...

Mueller Water Products

Machine Operator I

Cleveland, TN

$14.25 - $17/hr

Machine Operator I Mueller Company, a subsidiary of Mueller Water Products and publicly traded company (NYSE: MWA) is the nation's leading manufacturer of flow control devices for the water and gas ...

Mueller Water Products, Inc.

Machine Operator I

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Machine Operator I Mueller Company, a subsidiary of Mueller Water Products and publicly traded company (NYSE: MWA) is the nation's leading manufacturer of flow control devices for the water and gas ...

Miller Industries

Machine Operator

Ooltewah, TN · On-site

$22.93/hr

Set up and operate saw fabricating machines. Other Duties may be assigned. Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. • Ensure working environment is clean and safe • Verify ...

Baltimore Aircoil Company

Machine Operator

Dayton, TN

$20 - $21/hr

POSITION PURPOSE A shop hourly position with the primary responsibilities of operating two major ... Qualified in the operation of two major fabrication machines including but not limited to the Laser ...

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Heavy Machine Operator information

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How much do heavy machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machine operator in Chattanooga, TN is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Heavy Machine Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectHeavy Machine OperatorCrane Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), certification in heavy equipment operationCrane operator certification, often through NCCCO or state programs
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, industrial facilitiesConstruction sites, shipping yards, industrial plants
Industry UsageHeavy machinery operation across various industriesSpecialized in lifting and moving heavy loads with cranes

Both roles require certification and involve working in construction or industrial environments. Heavy Machine Operators typically handle a variety of equipment like bulldozers and loaders, while Crane Operators focus specifically on operating cranes for lifting heavy materials. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges faced by heavy machine operators on construction sites?

Heavy Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven spaces, and coordinating safely with ground crews and other equipment. Adhering to strict safety protocols while maintaining productivity is crucial, as is communicating effectively with team members to avoid hazards. Operators must also stay up-to-date with maintenance needs and troubleshooting minor equipment issues to minimize downtime.

What is a heavy machine operator?

Heavy Machine Operators are skilled professionals who operate large machinery and equipment used in construction, mining, agriculture, and other industries. Their responsibilities include handling equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, excavators, and loaders to move earth, materials, or heavy objects. They must follow safety protocols, perform routine maintenance checks, and sometimes assist in minor repairs. Heavy Machine Operators play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of construction and industrial projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of construction site safety, equipment handling, and machinery operation, usually supported by a high school diploma and relevant operator certifications. Proficiency in operating heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders, as well as familiarity with GPS and grading systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work collaboratively are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and precise operation of machinery, which is crucial for successful project completion and workplace safety.
What cities near Chattanooga, TN are hiring for Heavy Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Chattanooga, TN with the most Heavy Machine Operator job openings:
Heavy Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Machine Operator job openings in Chattanooga, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,916 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Machine Operator

Thompson Pipe Group

Sale Creek, TN • On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

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Thompson Pipe Group rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Machine Operator

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.00+ DOE

1st Shift Mon-Thurs. 6 am to 4:30 pm.


Who We Are

Thompson Pipe Group is a privately held family business of engineers, contractors, and manufacturers based in Rialto, California. From the humble beginnings, we built a family of products to meet the needs of all kinds of infrastructure. Each generation of products is better than the previous.

Thompson Pipe Group is now the largest and most diverse drainage, sanitary, pressure and trench-less pipe provider, with manufacturing locations across the country and serving not just the US but all of North America. Please visit our website at www.thompsonpipegroup.com

Thompson Pipe Group is currently looking for a Machine Operator.


The Machine Operator is responsible for running various types of equipment. This operator will be the main crane operator for the steel plant liner. He/She will press rings of different sizes and thicknesses. The operator is to follow the schedule which is produced by his supervisor. The operator will know how and will be responsible for setting up and changing over the ring press. The operator will also check all quality measurements and values on the rings and make adjustments to the machines or perform repairs as necessary.

Essential Functions

  • Cut/shear metal to correct size
  • Use welder to tack metal strips together
  • Use various metal rolling machines to roll metal to correct roundness
  • Operate grinders to smooth out metal welds
  • Operate flash welder and trimmer
  • Operate presses to enlarge or shrink metal rings
  • Load and unload materials on and off production line
  • Perform handling in such a manner not to incur damage to product or equipment
  • Operates forklift to move various products
  • Responsible for the organization and housekeeping of designated station as well as performing pre-operationsinspections.

Required Qualifications

  • Must have a safety-first attitude.
  • Be respectful to all persons.
  • Be responsible, dependable and trustworthy.
  • Must pass a forklift safety course and demonstrate safe practices.
  • Must be able to pass practical and written overhead crane training course.
  • Must be familiar with machinery and possess a basic mechanical aptitude.
  • Flexible for non-standard working hours.
  • Must have good organizational/housekeeping skills and problem resolution skills.
  • Required to lift and move objects up to 75lbs.

Schedule:

  • 10-hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Thursday
  • Overtime
  • Weekend availability

Experience:

  • Machine Operators: 2 years (Preferred)
  • Manufacturing: 2 years (Preferred)
  • Forklift: 2 years (Preferred)

Shift availability:

  • Day Shift

What We Offer

  • Top-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits
  • Life and Supplement Life
  • Company Matched 401K Retirement Plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Fun Events
  • Training and Development
  • Employee Discounts
  • Career Opportunity!

Work Location: 550 Industrial Blvd. Bakewell, TN 37304.

EOE/AA – M/F/Vet/Disability

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