1

Machine Operator 1St Jobs in Lexington, KY (NOW HIRING)

Performs first-piece and in-process inspection by checking material thickness and dimensions of ... At least 1-2 years' operating and setting up Sawa * Ability to use measuring devices Ruler, Caliper ...

Machine Operator

Winchester, KY · On-site

$22.75/hr

Performs first-piece and in-process inspection by checking material thickness and dimensions of ... At least 1-2 years' operating and setting up Sawa * Ability to use measuring devices Ruler, Caliper ...

Performs first-piece and in-process inspection by checking material thickness and dimensions of ... At least 1-2 years' operating and setting up Sawa * Ability to use measuring devices Ruler, Caliper ...

Performs first-piece and in-process inspection by checking material thickness and dimensions of ... At least 1-2 years' operating and setting up Sawa * Ability to use measuring devices Ruler, Caliper ...

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY · On-site

$22.75/hr

Performs first-piece and in-process inspection by checking material thickness and dimensions of ... At least 1-2 years' operating and setting up Sawa * Ability to use measuring devices Ruler, Caliper ...

Performs first-piece and in-process inspection by checking material thickness and dimensions of ... At least 1-2 years' operating and setting up Sawa * Ability to use measuring devices Ruler, Caliper ...

Machine Operator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$22.75/hr

Performs first-piece and in-process inspection by checking material thickness and dimensions of ... At least 1-2 years' operating and setting up Sawa * Ability to use measuring devices Ruler, Caliper ...

Performs first-piece and in-process inspection by checking material thickness and dimensions of ... At least 1-2 years' operating and setting up Sawa * Ability to use measuring devices Ruler, Caliper ...

Performs first-piece and in-process inspection by checking material thickness and dimensions of ... At least 1-2 years' operating and setting up Sawa * Ability to use measuring devices Ruler, Caliper ...

Performs first-piece and in-process inspection by checking material thickness and dimensions of ... At least 1-2 years' operating and setting up Sawa * Ability to use measuring devices Ruler, Caliper ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Machine Operator 1St information

See Lexington, KY salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do machine operator 1st jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator 1st in Lexington, KY is $18.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $19.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Machine Operator 1St vs Machine Operator 2Nd?

AspectMachine Operator 1StMachine Operator 2Nd
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, additional certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, factoriesManufacturing plants, factories, sometimes more complex machinery
Employer UsageEntry-level or primary machine operation rolesSupporting or secondary roles, often assisting or overseeing
Common Search IntentUnderstanding entry-level machine operationClarifying roles with similar titles or responsibilities

Machine Operator 1St and Machine Operator 2Nd roles are both essential in manufacturing, with the 1St typically being entry-level and the 2Nd often supporting or assisting. The main differences lie in experience, certifications, and job responsibilities, with the 2Nd usually requiring more experience or specialized skills.

How to become a machine operator 1st with no experience?

To become a first-level machine operator with no experience, you should look for entry-level positions that provide on-the-job training, and consider obtaining relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training or equipment-specific courses. Having basic mechanical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols can improve your chances of being hired and trained for the role.

How to get started as a machine operator?

To start as a machine operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and gain experience through entry-level manufacturing or technical training programs. Developing skills in operating specific machinery, understanding safety protocols, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects.

What does a machine operator 1 do?

A Machine Operator 1 is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring manufacturing equipment to produce products according to specifications. They perform routine maintenance, ensure safety protocols are followed, and may need to read technical manuals or use measurement tools. This role often requires attention to detail and adherence to quality standards.

What job categories do people searching Machine Operator 1St jobs in Lexington, KY look for?

The top searched job categories for Machine Operator 1St jobs in Lexington, KY are:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator 1St job openings in Lexington, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,596 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Greif

Mount Sterling, KY

$17/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Greif rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Greif is a global leader in performance packaging located in 40 countries. The company delivers trusted, innovative, and tailored solutions that support some of the world's most in demand and fastest-growing industries.

With a commitment to legendary customer service, operational excellence, and global sustainability, Greif packages life's essentials - and creates lasting value for its colleagues, customers, and other stakeholders.

Learn more about the company's Customized Polymer, Sustainable Fiber, Durable Metal, and Integrated Solutions at www.greif.com and follow Greif on Instagram and LinkedIn.

OUR VISION:

To Be the Advantage That Helps Our Customers Win.

OUR PURPOSE:

Creating packaging solutions for life's essentials.

Job Requisition #:

034849 Machine Operator - 1st Shift (Open)

Job Description:

Greifpresents an exceptional career opportunity to join an organization that significantly impacts today's world by manufacturing essential plastic containers for various critical industries.

Machine operators operate a blow molding machine in the most efficient manner to produce quality plastic parts while following environmental policies to ensure compliance to goals and objectives.

Shift: 1st Shift (8am - 4:30pm)

Pay: $17/hr.

Benefits:

  • Health benefits effective from Day 1
  • Sign-on bonus after 90 days
  • Eligible for a Pay increase after 90 days

Key Responsibilities:

  • Monitors blow molding machines by pushing buttons.
  • Removes plastic parts from machine by hand. May be required to use step(s) to enter machine or work platform.
  • Removes flash (excess plastic) from parts.
  • Inspects parts for defects
  • Monitors quality of product and notifies process techs, and/or quality.
  • Weighs parts as required in work instructions.
  • Allow flash to cool and grind.
  • Grind defective parts.
  • Performs secondary operation per work instruction.
  • Follows instructions as shown on work instructions.
  • Logs in and logs out of the Shop Floor Monitoring System at the start of the shift, before and after each break period and at the end of the shift.
  • Enters rejects into the Shop Floor Monitoring System.
  • Packages production parts as shown in the work instruction.
  • Maintains effective communication with the Process Tech, Plant Manager, and other members of Management.
  • Must be able to comprehend and carry out oral and written instructions.
  • Must be able to perform all production tasks while following the procedures outlined in the work instruction.
  • Must maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area always.
  • Measures finished parts with precision tools, ensuring compliance with function, quality, and cosmetic specifications.
  • Inspects equipment prior to use to ensure proper setup and alignment; performs basic and routine adjustment and maintenance.
  • Other duties as required.
  • Follow safety regulations.

Education and Experience:

  • Typically possesses a high school diploma (or equivalent) and up to 2 years of relevant experience.

Knowledge and Skills:

  • Willingness to follow directions and work well in a team.
  • Ability to interpret and translate job specifications for production machineries.
  • Fundamental understanding of or the ability to quickly learn production equipment.

Physical Requirements:

  • Bending, twisting, lifting overhead, lifting carrying barrels and lids. Carrying up to 25 pounds throughout the day.
  • Exposure to excessive hot and cold temperatures.

#L1-TC1

At Greif, we believe that our colleagues are the center of our success. Our Total Rewards have a comprehensive focus on well-being and offer a competitive package that enables you to thrive, be engaged, and reach your full potential.


Compensation Range:

The pay range for this position is $15.82 - $25.24annually. Typically, a competitive wage for new hires will fall between17.00 to17.00. Offers for this position may vary based on market data and other factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and geographic location. If the competitive wage is equal in both fields, the starting rate is the same for all applicants that apply for this role. The starting rate is not representative of future compensation increases. The position may also be eligible for a short-term incentive.

Benefits Statement:

Greif offers a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive core benefits, paid time off, and a range of local benefits for eligible colleagues.

Protect Yourself From Scams: We value the integrity of our recruitment process and prioritize the well-being of our candidates. While you may find Greif job postings on various platforms, all legitimate opportunities can be verified on our official Careers page at www.greif.com. All communication from Greif regarding job opportunities will also come from an @greif.com email address. If you have concerns about the legitimacy of a job posting, receive an unsolicited job offer or suspect fraudulent activity, please contact us for verification via this link Contact Us - Greif.

EEO Statement:

https://www.greif.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/HR-101-Equal-Employment-Opportunity-Policy-English.pdf

We offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits and opportunity for growth. Greif is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of sex, race, religion, age, national origin, color, disability, veteran status or any other any other legally protected characteristic.

For more information read Greif's Equal Opportunity Policy.


What Greif employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom