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Machine Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ITW ZIP-PAK

Machine/Equipment Operator

Ottawa, IL · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

The Machine/Equipment Operator is responsible for maintaining the highest standards of safety while ensuring efficient scrap collection. This role also involves keeping the warehouse and surrounding ...

Navarro Pecan Company

Equipment Operator

Corsicana, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Operate and maintain machinery, equipment, and tools in a safe and proficient manner. * Performs ... operating machinery * Ability to read and understand rulers, tapes, scales, and thermometers

Forsyth County

Equipment Operator

Cumming, GA

$36K/yr

Equipment Operator I - Non-Exempt, starting at $37,257.00/yr High school diploma or GED preferred ... Operates a variety of machinery, equipment, and tools associated with projects and work activities ...

Forsyth County, GA

Equipment Operator

Cumming, GA · On-site

$45K/yr

Equipment Operator II - Non- Exempt, starting at $40,635.00/yr. High school diploma or GED ... Operates a variety of machinery, equipment, and tools associated with projects and work activities ...

Braen Stone

Equipment Operator

Haledon, NJ · On-site

$28.85 - $29.85/hr

Description Equipment Operator Haledon Quarry FLSA Classification: Laborer Overtime Status: Non ... Inspects equipment/machinery to maintain safe daily operations * Complete miscellaneous jobs ...

Braen Stone

Equipment Operator

Ringwood, NJ · On-site

$28.27 - $29.27/hr

Description Equipment Operator Ringwood FLSA Classification: Laborer Overtime Status: Non- Exempt ... Inspects equipment/machinery to maintain safe daily operations * Complete miscellaneous jobs ...

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Machine Equipment Operator information

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$12

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How much do machine equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine equipment operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine equipment operator?

Machine equipment operators are skilled workers responsible for operating and maintaining various types of machinery in industrial, construction, or manufacturing settings. They ensure machines run efficiently, monitor equipment for any malfunctions, and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. Operators may also perform routine maintenance and make minor repairs to keep equipment in good working condition. Their role is critical for maintaining smooth production processes and meeting organizational output goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine equipment operator?

To thrive as a Machine Equipment Operator, you need a strong understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with specific equipment controls, maintenance tools, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are essential soft skills for minimizing errors and ensuring smooth production processes. These skills and qualities are critical for maintaining safety, efficiency, and quality in manufacturing or industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by machine equipment operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Machine Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, maintaining production efficiency, and adhering to strict safety protocols. To address these, operators are trained to perform regular equipment checks, promptly report issues, and follow detailed operational procedures. Effective communication with maintenance teams and supervisors is essential to quickly resolve downtime and ensure a safe, smooth workflow. Continuous learning and staying updated on new machinery or technology can further help operators excel in this role.

What is the difference between Machine Equipment Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectMachine Equipment OperatorForklift Operator
CredentialsOSHA certification, on-the-job trainingOSHA certification, forklift license
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, warehousesWarehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageHeavy machinery operation across various industriesMaterial handling in logistics and warehousing
Common Search IntentMachine operation, heavy equipment skillsMaterial movement, forklift operation

While both roles involve operating machinery, Machine Equipment Operators handle a variety of heavy equipment like bulldozers and cranes, often requiring broader certifications. Forklift Operators specifically focus on operating forklifts for material handling in warehouses and distribution centers. The roles overlap in certification and work environment but differ in scope and equipment specialization.

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What cities are hiring for Machine Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Machine Equipment Operator job openings:

What job categories do people searching Machine Equipment Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Machine Equipment Operator jobs are:

Machine Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Machine/Equipment Operator

ITW ZIP-PAK

Ottawa, IL • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description:

Founded in 1912, Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE: ITW) is a diversified, Fortune 500 manufacturing company that delivers specialized expertise, innovative thinking and value-added products to meet critical customer needs in a variety of industries. 

The Machine/Equipment Operator is responsible for maintaining the highest standards of safety while ensuring efficient scrap collection. This role also involves keeping the warehouse and surrounding grounds clean and organized at all times.

Responsibilities:

  • Maintain safety throughout the plant.

  • Optimize the baling efforts by continuing to segregate the clear and color bale materials.

  • Collect the corrugated material and bale.

  • Collect paper in gaylords, cans/bottles from breakroom.

  • Keep collected materials in the supplied trailer whenever possible.

  • Keep a Bill of Laden of all material going onto the trailer with copies going to the Accounting and to Jadcore with the trailer when picked up.

  • Notify your team leader or shipping supervisor if a trailer or compactor needs to be removed.

  • Responsible for cleaning the areas that are used in the plant including the scale area, compactor area, outside dock grounds, storage area and equipment used.

  • Clean plastics baler between bales so that no cross contamination occurs. Each time the LOTO (Lock-out/Tag-out) procedure should be followed anytime you enter the open side of the balers.

  • Be a part of the team your assigned. Talk with Team Leader daily for any tasks/information that may need.

  • Go on the production floor and remove any plastic/garbage several times a day.

  • Sweep your area at least once a day and clean all equipment once a week. Keep desk clean and neat.
     

Additional Responsibilities:

  • Sort Pallets

  • Clean outside grounds

  • Weekly / Monthly warehouse cleaning

  • Wrap finished pallets

  • Remove dead pallets

  • Production floor weekly / monthly cleaning

  • Cover lines for breaks/lunches

  • Stock and organize vinyl supplies

  • Daily resin traceability sheets

Compensation Information:

The hourly range for a Machine/Equipment Operator is $19.00 to $22.00. The pay rate for a successful candidate will depend on the geographic location, this pay range is for a successful candidate in the Chicago metro area.  The specific hiring rate within the posted range will depend on the candidate's qualifications and prior experience.

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential. 


As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship. 


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

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