1

Knife Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Paving Crew Operator

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Knife River is a PEOPLE-first company. Our team members are key to our success, and we are ... This is a Local 49 Operating Engineer Union position. This position will operate a variety of heavy ...

At Knife River, we take care of our team because we know it's our people who make us successful. We ... One year or more experience operating screed equipment -Has knowledge of the aspects of paving ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Knife Operator information

What is a Knife Operator?

A Knife Operator is a skilled worker who operates industrial cutting machines, often in manufacturing or printing environments. Their main responsibility is to set up, adjust, and control machinery that cuts materials such as paper, textiles, plastics, or metal into specified sizes and shapes. Knife Operators must ensure precision and safety, inspect products for quality, and maintain their equipment. Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.

What professions use knives?

Knife operators and other culinary professionals regularly use knives as essential tools for food preparation. Additionally, jobs such as butchers, carpenters, and manufacturing workers may use knives or similar cutting tools as part of their daily tasks. Proper training and safety precautions are important in all these professions.

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

To thrive as a Knife Operator, you need proficiency in machine operation, knowledge of safety protocols, and experience with material handling, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cutting machines, calibration tools, and basic maintenance procedures is typically required. Strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure product quality, operational efficiency, and workplace safety in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges a Knife Operator may face during their shifts, and how can they be addressed?

Knife Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent precision while cutting, managing equipment maintenance, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To address these, it's important to stay focused during repetitive tasks, regularly inspect and sharpen knives, and follow all safety guidelines to prevent injuries. Effective communication with supervisors and teammates can also help quickly resolve any issues with machinery or workflow disruptions, ensuring both product quality and personal safety.

Is prior experience needed for Knife River jobs?

For a Knife Operator position, prior experience is often preferred but not always required, as some employers provide on-the-job training. Basic knowledge of machinery, safety procedures, and attention to detail can be beneficial for success in this role.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Jobs that can pay $500,000 or more annually include high-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as successful entrepreneurs, top-tier surgeons, and certain specialized professionals like investment bankers and hedge fund managers. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve significant responsibility or performance-based bonuses.

What is the difference between Knife Operator vs Blade Technician?

AspectKnife OperatorBlade Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications in machine operation are a plusRequires specialized training or certifications in blade repair and maintenance
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, food processing facilitiesMaintenance workshops, manufacturing plants, repair facilities
Industry UsageUsed in food processing, packaging, and manufacturing industriesCommonly found in industries requiring blade repair and maintenance

Both roles involve working with blades, but Knife Operators focus on operating machinery that uses knives, while Blade Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining blades. The roles often overlap in manufacturing settings, but Blade Technicians typically require more specialized skills and certifications.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Knife operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, making $4,000 weekly unlikely without extensive experience or overtime. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $4,000 a week without a degree include roles such as commercial pilots, sales managers, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers, which often require certifications or specialized training. These positions usually demand specific skills, certifications, or experience rather than formal degrees.
More about Knife Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Knife Operator jobs? For Knife Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Knife Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Crusher Equipment Operator / Laborer

Crusher Equipment Operator / Laborer

Knife River Corporation

Magna, UT • On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Knife River rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

193rd of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

At Knife River, we take care of our team because we know it's our people who make us successful. We are one of the 10 largest construction materials producers/contractors in the Country, and we are a PEOPLE-first company. Our team members are the key to our success, and we are committed to giving them the tools, training, and time to do their jobs productively and safely each day. Our goal is to build strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities. We are also a publicly traded company on the NYSE with the ticker symbol KNF and part of the S&P MidCap 400 index.
We are looking for a Crusher Operator Laborer to join our team!
  • Safely operate various pieces of equipment for and around crushing plants to feed, stockpile and cleanup materials.
  • Help on crushing plants when needed.
  • Shoveling, greasing and maintenance on and around plants.
  • Need to be flexible with other tasks assigned by supervisors.
  • MANUAL LABORER SHOULD BE EXPECTED
  • Must be able to travel.

Minimum Qualifications:
Qualified candidates must have experience working with a Loader, as well as the following:
• Pipe laying experience
• Ability to sit or stand for long periods
• Handle and manipulate objects on a repetitive basis
• Ability to see well and distinguish between back up alarms, voices and other normal sounds consistent with construction job sites
• Dependability and ability to work in a safe manner
• Environmental adaptability
• Ability to work independently and be self-motivated
• Team player, able to get along with a diverse group of people working toward a common goal.
  • Ability to work flexible shifts, including overtime, possible nights and some Saturdays.

How To Apply:
Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.
Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background checks.
At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are constantly looking to add veterans to our workforce and want to make the transition as smooth as possible. There are many jobs within the military that are transferable to our Crusher Operator Laborer position:
Air Force:
  • Pavement and Construction Equipment Journeyman
  • Pavement and Construction Equipment Apprentice
  • Pavement and Construction Equipment Helper

Army:
  • Rough Terrain Forklift & Loader Operator
  • Heavy Construction Equipment Operator

Navy:
  • Equipment Operator
  • Equipment Operator Basic
  • Advanced Equipment Operator

Marines:
  • Motor Vehicle Operator

If unable to apply online, please mail completed application to:
Knife River Corporation
7620 W. Highway 201
Magna, UT 84044
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Knife River employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom