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Light Machine Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Summary The Machine Operator supports our commitment to exceptional customer service, quality and ... operate light machinery * Standing in place for several hours at a table to operate machinery ...

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Light Machine Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$12

$19

$24

How much do light machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for light machine operator in Portland, OR is $19.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a light machine operator?

A light machine operator is a worker who operates small to medium-sized machinery used in manufacturing, construction, or industrial settings. They are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining equipment such as drills, presses, or cutting machines, often requiring safety training and certification. The role typically involves attention to detail, manual dexterity, and adherence to safety protocols.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Light Machine Operators can earn around $700 a day with overtime, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries such as manufacturing or construction. Higher pay may also be available for those with certifications, experience, or working in remote or hazardous environments. Earnings vary based on location, shift, and employer policies.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine operators, industrial machinery operators, or those working in the oil and gas industry. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer higher wages compared to general machine operator positions.

How much do light equipment operators make?

Light machine operators typically earn an average hourly wage between $15 and $25, depending on experience, location, and industry. Annual salaries can range from approximately $30,000 to $50,000, with higher pay often associated with certifications and specialized skills.

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

AspectLight Machine OperatorHeavy Machine Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, warehousesConstruction sites, mining, large-scale manufacturing
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate small to medium machinery, quality controlOperate large, heavy machinery, site preparation

Light Machine Operators and Heavy Machine Operators both require safety certifications and work in industrial environments. The main difference lies in the size and type of machinery operated, with Light Machine Operators handling smaller equipment in manufacturing settings, while Heavy Machine Operators work with larger, more complex machinery typically on construction or mining sites.

What are some common challenges Light Machine Operators face during their shifts and how can they be addressed?

Light Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as managing repetitive tasks, maintaining focus during long shifts, and troubleshooting minor machine malfunctions. Staying attentive to machine sounds and outputs can help detect issues early, while following proper safety protocols minimizes the risk of accidents. Regular communication with supervisors and maintenance teams also ensures that problems are resolved quickly, fostering a supportive work environment and reducing downtime.

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

To thrive as a Light Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often combined with on-the-job training or manufacturing certifications. Familiarity with operating light machinery, basic hand tools, and quality control systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and reliability help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure efficient production, minimize errors, and maintain safety and quality standards in manufacturing environments.
Machine Operator (Seasonal)

Machine Operator (Seasonal)

Peets

Portland, OR

$23.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted yesterday

New


Peet's Coffee rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 16 rated cafes


Job description

Hi, we're Stumptown. We're a coffee company, and we source, roast, taste, package, sell, deliver, brew and serve what we firmly believe is the best coffee on the planet. We are progressive, open, and evolving but uncompromising in our commitment to quality. We work hard, collaborate constantly and have fun every day. We pride ourselves on our passion for excellence, our spirit of generosity and on the long-term relationships we nurture as we guide our coffee from the good hands of our hardworking partners at origin into the cups of our customers. If you love coffee, people and getting things done, this just might be the place for you.

Summary

The Machine Operator supports our commitment to exceptional customer service, quality and freshness by working quickly, efficiently and accurately to package roasted coffee, operate machinery, monitor the quality of the bags and prepare the coffee for delivery to our Customers. They fill daily coffee orders by operating automated and manual packaging equipment, monitoring the quality of the bags, and fulfilling packaging duties in a safe and efficient manner. Additionally, the Machine Operator fulfills other responsibilities as outlined in the Production and Fulfillment Tech job description. This is a full-time, non-exempt position.

Essential Functions
  • Operates automated and manual packaging machines including vertical packaging lines, sealing machines and box erectors.

  • Conduct equipment change-overs and routine maintenance on packaging equipment.

  • Ensure strict quality standards including seal integrity and fill and oxygen levels are upheld and adjust packaging machine as needed.

  • Use both manual and mechanized processes to weigh, grind, bag and seal bagged coffee.

  • Rack, box or palletize to prepare bagged coffee for distribution.

  • Fulfill, pick and prepare customer orders for delivery with extreme accuracy.

  • Comply with established Good Manufacturing Practices and standards.

  • Complete work efficiently and safely, maintain a clean and tidy work space and restock and prep supplies as needed.

  • Utilize spreadsheets and email communication from Production Planner to support daily workflow in the most timely and efficient manner possible.

Supervisory responsibilities
  • None

Qualifications
  • Must have mechanical aptitude and basic trouble-shooting skills.

  • Knowledgeable in setting-up, operating, changing-over, and monitoring packaging equipment.

  • Attention to detail, accuracy, thoroughness & flexibility.

  • Ability to work with a sense of urgency in a fast-paced environment a must.

  • Ability to comfortably lift a minimum of 50 pounds.

  • Ability to read and follow written instructions accurately

  • Ability to work with minimal supervision.

  • Demonstrated passion and enthusiasm for coffee

  • Proven team player willing to work with others to complete tasks

  • Eager to work with many different personalities and backgrounds

  • Ability to manage and prioritize daily and weekly tasks

  • Driver's license and good driving record are necessary

Physical Demands
  • Occasionally drive Sprinter vans, loading and unloading product throughout a shift Carry weight, lift - frequently moves materials weighing up to 50 pounds. Weight greater than 50 pounds can be mitigated with a lifting partner or device

  • Stooping-bending body downward and forward by bending spine at the waist Repetitive motion using the hands, wrists and forearms-fold bags, carry trays of coffee, operate light machinery

  • Standing in place for several hours at a table to operate machinery, scoop coffee and fold bags

Work environment
  • The work environment can be noisy

  • Temperatures can be variable in the work area

Pay Transparency & Benefits:

The target base compensation for this position is $23.50. As a seasonal position, this role receives an amazing employee discount as well as a 401(k) savings plan which includes an employer match of 100% for the first 3% of earnings that you contribute plus 50% of the next 2% you contribute.

At Stumptown, we welcome diversity and celebrate that our communities include individuals from all backgrounds, identities, and walks of life. We strive every day to foster an environment of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility that supports our employees, customers and communities. We know that embracing diversity makes us stronger, enriches our culture, and allows us to grow together. We encourage candidates with diverse backgrounds, identities, skills, and abilities to apply. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing the application, interview or assessment process, please direct your inquiries to a member of the People team at jobs@stumptowncoffee.com or by calling (855) 711-3385. We are proud to be a B Corp and equal opportunity employer.


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About Peet's Coffee

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Peet's Coffee, headquartered in Emeryville, CA, US, operates in the coffee industry under the retail and specialty coffee sector. The company, established in 1966 by Alfred Peet, plays an integral role in pioneering the craft coffee movement in the US. Peet's offers a vast range of products, including fresh, deep-roasted whole beans coffee, brewed coffee, and espresso beverages, alongside tea and food items. They also sell their specialty coffee products in grocery stores. The company's mission is to commit to freshness and quality, honoring their founder's legacy. Notably, Peet's Coffee has had remarkable growth; what started as one store in Berkeley, CA, has now expanded to over 200 stores across the country and online at peets.com.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Emeryville, CA, US

Year founded

1966