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

Shop Helper

Wilsonville, OR ยท On-site

$22/hr

Load and unload machines. * Stack finished parts on pallets. * Move inventory with a forklift ... Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each ...

... light to medium duty packaging, processing and building equipment such as conveyors, elevators ... and operating equipment in the industrial industry. * Skilled in the use of tools, machines and ...

General Laborer

Woodland, WA ยท On-site

$19/hr

... safely. * Assist machine operators by feeding materials, removing finished products, and ... Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each ...

Align machines and equipment, using hoists, jacks, hand tools, squares, rules, micrometers, and ... Signal crane operator to lower basic assembly units to bedplate, and align unit to centerline.

Align machines and equipment, using hoists, jacks, hand tools, squares, rules, micrometers, and ... Signal crane operator to lower basic assembly units to bedplate, and align unit to centerline.

Align machines and equipment, using hoists, jacks, hand tools, squares, rules, micrometers, and ... Signal crane operator to lower basic assembly units to bedplate, and align unit to centerline.

The physical activity requirements of the position range from Light to Medium Physical Work ... Machine Operators (including inspection) positions. Physical Working Conditions This position is ...

The physical activity requirements of the position range from Light to Medium Physical Work ... Machine Operators (including inspection) positions. Physical Working Conditions This position is ...

The physical activity requirements of the position range from Light to Medium Physical Work ... Machine Operators (including inspection) positions. Physical Working Conditions This position is ...

The physical activity requirements of the position range from Light to Medium Physical Work ... Machine Operators (including inspection) positions. Physical Working Conditions This position is ...

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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 Jun 11, 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.
Shop Helper

Shop Helper

Aerotek

Wilsonville, OR โ€ข On-site

$22/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Title: Shop Helper
Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated Shop Helper to join our team for the day shift, Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:45 PM. The ideal candidate will assist in the operation of a burn/laser table and contribute to the smooth functioning of our industrial manufacturing process.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in operating a burn/laser table.
  • Utilize crane/jib to move plate and cut parts.
  • Manage steel plate inventory.
  • Load and unload machines.
  • Stack finished parts on pallets.
  • Move inventory with a forklift.
Essential Skills
  • Mechanical inclination.
  • Interest in metal fabrication.
  • Proficiency with hand tools.
  • Basic math skills for tape measure usage.
  • Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to lift 50-75 lbs.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • 1-3 years of industrial manufacturing experience.
  • Experience in machine operation and machine shop environments.
  • Understanding of blueprint reading and laser operation.
  • Familiarity with fabrication, plasma torch, and plasma cutting.
Why Work Here?

This position offers a fantastic opportunity to start your career with an industrial parts manufacturer. Enjoy a generous benefits package that includes profit sharing, paid holidays, and paid time off. We provide company-paid long-term disability insurance and life insurance, ensuring financial security and peace of mind.

Work Environment

Work in an open industrial machine shop with open bay doors, providing a dynamic and engaging environment. The role involves working with various tools and machines, including burn tables and laser operations, in a collaborative and safety-focused setting.

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 $22.00 - $22.00/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:
โ€ข Medical, dental & vision
โ€ข Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
โ€ข 401(k) Retirement Plan โ€“ Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
โ€ข Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
โ€ข Short and long-term disability
โ€ข Health Spending Account (HSA)
โ€ข Transportation benefits
โ€ข Employee Assistance Program
โ€ข 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 15, 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 โ€“ 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 companiesโ€™ 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 โ€“ 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 companiesโ€™ 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.