ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Operator Operator Jobs in Paducah, KY (NOW HIRING)

J&J Snack Foods

Utility Operator

Paducah, KY · On-site

Machine Operator Tanker Operator Line Operator Vat Operator Batching Mix Pasteurization COMPETENCIES: Employees should be in good general physical condition and able to stand for prolonged periods ...

Ingevity

Entry Level Operator

Wickliffe, KY

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position is responsible for operating production equipment in the carbon plant. How you will impact Ingevity : * Monitor DCS graphics and controls to effectively operator equipment * Respond to ...

Ingevity

Entry Level Operator

Wickliffe, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position is responsible for operating production equipment in the carbon plant. How you will impact Ingevity : * Monitor DCS graphics and controls to effectively operator equipment * Respond to ...

UACJ Automotive Whitehall

Press Operator Trainee

Paducah, KY · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Familiar with operating procedures and paperwork at the B/O saw * Read, understand and implement instructions on routing tickets/HMI * Use Cadex system to improve dies performance * Assist with ...

Arkema

Packaging & Loading Operator Job

Calvert City, KY

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position involves operating machinery, handling materials, and adhering to safety and quality standards to meet production goals. Union hourly role. Key Responsibilities: * Operate Packaging ...

Arkema

Packaging & Loading Operator Job

Calvert City, KY

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position involves operating machinery, handling materials, and adhering to safety and quality standards to meet production goals. Key Responsibilities: * Operate Packaging Equipment: Efficiently ...

Arkema

Packaging & Loading Operator Job

Calvert City, KY

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position involves operating machinery, handling materials, and adhering to safety and quality standards to meet production goals. Key Responsibilities: * Operate Packaging Equipment: Efficiently ...

Arkema

Packaging & Loading Operator Job

Calvert City, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position involves operating machinery, handling materials, and adhering to safety and quality standards to meet production goals. Key Responsibilities: * Operate Packaging Equipment: Efficiently ...

Arkema

Packaging & Loading Operator Job

Calvert City, KY

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position involves operating machinery, handling materials, and adhering to safety and quality standards to meet production goals. Union hourly role. Key Responsibilities: * Operate Packaging ...

Estron Chemical

Chemical Operator I

Calvert City, KY · On-site

$21.12/hr

Production Supervisor Summary Responsible for operating chemical plant machines and entire chemical processes. Monitor instruments, adjust valves and gauges, and interpret chemical reactions.

Estron Chemical

Chemical Operator I

Calvert City, KY

$21.12/hr

Production Supervisor Summary Responsible for operating chemical plant machines and entire chemical processes. Monitor instruments, adjust valves and gauges, and interpret chemical reactions.

Arkema

Packaging & Loading Operator Job

Calvert City, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position involves operating machinery, handling materials, and adhering to safety and quality standards to meet production goals. Key Responsibilities: * Operate Packaging Equipment: Efficiently ...

Arkema

Packaging & Loading Operator Job

Calvert City, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position involves operating machinery, handling materials, and adhering to safety and quality standards to meet production goals. Union hourly role. Key Responsibilities: * Operate Packaging ...

Arkema

Packaging & Loading Operator Job

Calvert City, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position involves operating machinery, handling materials, and adhering to safety and quality standards to meet production goals. Key Responsibilities: * Operate Packaging Equipment: Efficiently ...

Clean Harbors

Equipment Operator

Calvert City, KY · On-site

$21 - $26.57/hr

Perform any and all duties associated with liquid vacs, air machines and jet rodders; * Direct a ... Experience operating a vacuum truck. Smartphone required for Electronic Logging Device; * Working ...

Clean Harbors

Equipment Operator

Calvert City, KY · On-site

$16.25 - $22/hr

The Equipment Operator serves as a representative of HPC Industrial in creating a continuous ... Perform any and all duties associated with liquid vacs, air machines and jet rodders; * Direct a ...

CleanHarbors

Equipment Operator

Calvert City, KY · On-site

$16.25 - $22/hr

The Equipment Operator serves as a representative of HPC Industrial in creating a continuous ... Perform any and all duties associated with liquid vacs, air machines and jet rodders; * Direct a ...

Clean Harbors

Equipment Operator

Calvert City, KY · On-site

$16.25 - $22/hr

The Equipment Operator serves as a representative of HPC Industrial in creating a continuous ... Perform any and all duties associated with liquid vacs, air machines and jet rodders; * Direct a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Operator Operator JobsMachine Operator Operator Jobs in Paducah, KY

Machine Operator Operator information

See Paducah, KY salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator operator in Paducah, KY is $17.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by machine operators and how can they be managed?

Machine operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, maintaining production schedules, and ensuring product quality. To manage these, operators should stay proactive with routine maintenance, follow safety and operational protocols carefully, and communicate effectively with maintenance teams and supervisors. Ongoing training and staying updated with new machinery technologies also help operators adapt to evolving manufacturing practices and minimize downtime.

What are machine operators?

Machine operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing, production, or processing environments. They monitor equipment performance, ensure products meet quality standards, and troubleshoot issues as they arise. Machine operators often follow safety protocols and may adjust machine settings to optimize efficiency or output. Their role is essential in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with prior manufacturing experience. Familiarity with CNC machines, production software, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Dependability, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient machine operation and help maintain productivity and quality standards on the production floor.

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

AspectMachine Operator OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, certifications in machinery operationHigh school diploma, certifications in specific machinery or safety
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, production linesFactories, manufacturing plants, production lines
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing, assembly, and production industriesCommonly used in manufacturing, assembly, and production industries
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate machinery, monitor production, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, monitor production, perform basic maintenance

Both Machine Operator Operator and Machine Operator roles involve operating machinery in manufacturing settings, with similar credentials and work environments. The main difference lies in terminology usage, with 'Machine Operator' being the more common and widely recognized title. They often perform similar tasks, making the terms interchangeable in many contexts.

What cities near Paducah, KY are hiring for Machine Operator Operator jobs? Cities near Paducah, KY with the most Machine Operator Operator job openings:
Machine Operator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Operator job openings in Paducah, KY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,098 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Utility Operator

J&J Snack Foods

Paducah, KY • On-site

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago

J&J Snack Foods rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

341st of 434 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: The Production Utility Operator position is designed to be a position where the Operator is trained in all facets of the production process to include, but not be limited to, other position such as line operator (all production lines), machine operator, vats, mix trucks, lines, batch mix, etc. This person would also cover for regular operators while on vacation, days off, for breaks, or whatever need arises. The person must be versatile and have the ability to multi-task, be self-motivated, require minimal supervision, make good decisions, work well with others and be willing to move from position to position on very short notice.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Machine Operator Tanker Operator Line Operator Vat Operator Batching Mix Pasteurization COMPETENCIES: Employees should be in good general physical condition and able to stand for prolonged periods, bend, twist, turn and lift up to a minimum of 40 pounds, without restriction. Employees must work well with others and have good social and communication skills and be willing to take direction. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: High School/GED Production TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: NONE Job Analysis/Job Description Physical Activities Checklist Job title: Utility Operator Physical Activities Check all that apply Frequency (N)Never, (O)Occasionally or (C)Constantly Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles, and the like.

O Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces. O Remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods. O Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.

C Adjusting or moving objects up to 15 pounds in all directions. C Communicating with others to exchange information. C Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.

C Operating machinery and/or power tools. O Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment. O Environmental Conditions Check all that apply Frequency Low temperatures.

O High temperatures. O Outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind. O Noisy environments.

O Hazardous conditions. O Poor ventilation. O Small and/or enclosed spaces.

O Adverse environmental conditions expected. N Physical Demands Check only one Frequency Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing. N Light work that includes moving objects up to 20 pounds.

C Medium work that includes moving objects up to 50 pounds. C

What J&J Snack Foods employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply