1

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

Machine Operator Join our team as a Machine Operator, where you will play a crucial role in the ... Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each ...

Packaging Operator

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$39K - $49K/yr

Job Summary Per established procedure and under supervision, performs packaging and light machine ... Experience operating mechanical equipment used in conveying, sealing, inspection, and packaging of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Light Machine Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$12

$19

$24

How much do light machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 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 responsible for operating and maintaining light machinery used in manufacturing or production environments. Their main duties include setting up machines, monitoring their performance, ensuring products meet quality standards, and performing basic maintenance or troubleshooting. Light Machine Operators typically work with machines that are less complex and easier to handle compared to heavy machinery. They play a vital role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently. Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are essential skills for this role.

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.
CNC Machine Operator

CNC Machine Operator

Aerotek

Wilsonville, OR

$21 - $25/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Machine Operator
Job Description

Join our team as a Machine Operator, where you will play a crucial role in the machining of large metal parts for production. This position is on a swing shift schedule, working Monday through Thursday from 3:30 PM to 2:00 AM, with a shift differential provided.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in the machining of large metal parts for production.
  • Operate a 4-axis horizontal mill and become proficient in its use.
  • Change inserts, clean, and maintain work area around the machine.
  • Run cycle times ranging from 1 hour to 5 minutes.
  • Perform production run set-ups and use tooling, fixturing, and segment selection.
  • Adhere to safety procedures for grinders.
  • Adjust machine bed and set tension on blade for bandsaw operations.
  • Position jig or attachment on machine bed to cut stock to size.
  • Start machine and cut stock along marked outline or configuration of jig.
  • Remove cut stock and verify dimensions.
Essential Skills
  • Mechanical inclination.
  • At least 1 year of CNC experience, either through education or operation.
  • Basic shop tool experience, including calipers and micrometers.
  • Proficiency with hand tools.
  • Experience running 24" and 36" grinders.
  • Ability to lift 50-75 lbs.
  • Basic math comprehension, including measurements down to thousandths.
  • Proven mechanical aptitude.
  • Experience in production run set-ups.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • 1-3 years of machining experience.
  • Comfortable and eager to work in an industrial manufacturing environment.
  • Familiarity with blueprint reading and mechanical aptitude.
  • Experience with precision measurement instruments such as micrometers.
  • Demonstrated critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Why Work Here?

This position provides an excellent opportunity to establish a career in industrial parts manufacturing. You will have the chance to work in a process-driven environment with opportunities for growth, whether you aim to pursue a machining career or prefer a manual machining position. The company offers a generous benefits package, including profit sharing, holidays, paid time off, long-term disability insurance, and life insurance.

Work Environment

You will be working in an open industrial machine shop with open bay doors, situated approximately 0.5 miles away from the headquarters. The environment is designed to support efficient manufacturing processes and collaboration.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wilsonville, OR.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $25.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Wilsonville,OR.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 19, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.