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Machine Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Essentra

Machine Operator

Flippin, AR · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Machine Operators duties include but are not limited to: * Monitor the production levels of the parts in the presses - responsible for maintaining molding press process parameters to produce a ...

Essentra

Machine Operator

Flippin, AR

$16 - $19/hr

Machine Operators duties include but are not limited to: * Monitor the production levels of the parts in the presses - responsible for maintaining molding press process parameters to produce a ...

Essentra

Machine Operator

Flippin, AR · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Machine Operators duties include but are not limited to: * Monitor the production levels of the parts in the presses - responsible for maintaining molding press process parameters to produce a ...

Essentra

Machine Operator

Flippin, AR · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Machine Operators duties include but are not limited to: * Monitor the production levels of the parts in the presses - responsible for maintaining molding press process parameters to produce a ...

Onin Staffing

Machine Operator

Heber Springs, AR

$16 - $16.40/hr

This is an amazing opportunity for machine operators to enjoy competitive pay and radically affordable health insurance. Plus, health insurance after 30 days. * Competitive pay rates * Career ...

Westrock Coffee

Machine Operator

Conway, AR · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for the overall quality and efficiency of the machine and is indirectly responsible for leading machine crews. The primary result expected from the Machine ...

Canfor

$15 - $17.75/hr

Step into the role of a Machine Operator and let your motivation, problem-solving skills, and teamwork abilities shine. At our cutting-edge mills, you won't just be working in a safe and efficient ...

Canfor

$15 - $17.75/hr

Step into the role of a Machine Operator and let your motivation, problem-solving skills, and teamwork abilities shine. At our cutting-edge mills, you won't just be working in a safe and efficient ...

Canfor

Machine Operator

El Dorado, AR · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Step into the role of a Machine Operator and let your motivation, problem-solving skills, and teamwork abilities shine. At our cutting-edge mills, you won't just be working in a safe and efficient ...

Canfor

Machine Operator

El Dorado, AR · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Step into the role of a Machine Operator and let your motivation, problem-solving skills, and teamwork abilities shine. At our cutting-edge mills, you won't just be working in a safe and efficient ...

Canfor

$15 - $17.75/hr

Step into the role of a Machine Operator and let your motivation, problem-solving skills, and teamwork abilities shine. At our cutting-edge mills, you won't just be working in a safe and efficient ...

Canfor

Machine Operator

El Dorado, AR

$15 - $18/hr

Step into the role of a Machine Operator and let your motivation, problem-solving skills, and teamwork abilities shine. At our cutting-edge mills, you won't just be working in a safe and efficient ...

Canfor

Machine Operator

El Dorado, AR · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Step into the role of a Machine Operator and let your motivation, problem-solving skills, and teamwork abilities shine. At our cutting-edge mills, you won't just be working in a safe and efficient ...

Canfor

Machine Operator

El Dorado, AR · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Step into the role of a Machine Operator and let your motivation, problem-solving skills, and teamwork abilities shine. At our cutting-edge mills, you won't just be working in a safe and efficient ...

Canfor

Machine Operator

El Dorado, AR · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Step into the role of a Machine Operator and let your motivation, problem-solving skills, and teamwork abilities shine. At our cutting-edge mills, you won't just be working in a safe and efficient ...

Aampower

Machine Operator

Subiaco, AR

$17.51/hr

Job Posting Title Machine Operator Summary The Subiaco Manufacturing Facility has a variety of manufacturing positions available. Positions can involve the process of machining bar steel or castings ...

Onin Staffing

Machine Operator

Walnut Ridge, AR

$16.15 - $18.15/hr

This is an amazing opportunity for a Machine Operator to earn $16.15 to $18.15 hourly on 1st, 2nd, or 3rd shift. Plus, radically affordable health insurance after 30 days. - $16.15 to $18.15 hourly ...

Rusken

Machine Operator

Harrisburg, AR · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

We are currently seeking a highly motivated individual capable of handling working with heavy machinery in an environment requiring cooperation with a wide variety of people as a Machine Operator for ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Arkansas

Machine Operator information

See Arkansas salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Arkansas is $15.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $16.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Machine operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and meeting production deadlines. Addressing these issues usually involves diligent machine maintenance, following safety protocols, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Many companies provide ongoing training to help operators stay up to date with new machinery and processes, fostering a supportive environment for troubleshooting and skill development.

What is the work of a machine operator?

A machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining industrial machinery to produce goods or components. They monitor equipment for proper functioning, perform quality checks, and follow safety protocols, often using tools like control panels and gauges. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and sometimes certification or training in specific machinery.

How much do you get paid as a machine operator?

The average salary for a machine operator in the United States ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $25,000, while experienced operators with certifications can earn over $60,000 annually. Many machine operators work full-time shifts, often requiring knowledge of specific machinery and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Machine Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectMachine OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, production linesConstruction sites, mining, heavy machinery operation
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, assemblyConstruction, mining, transportation
Job FocusOperating specific machinery like presses, lathes, or CNC machinesOperating heavy equipment like bulldozers, cranes, or excavators

While both roles involve operating machinery, Machine Operators typically work with manufacturing equipment in factories, focusing on production machinery. Equipment Operators usually handle heavy construction or earth-moving equipment in outdoor environments. The skills and certifications often overlap, but the work settings and machinery types differ significantly.

What is a machine operator?

Machine operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing or production processes. They ensure equipment runs efficiently and safely, monitor machine output, and perform routine inspections or minor repairs as needed. Machine operators often work with specialized equipment and are trained to follow safety protocols and quality standards. Their role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and meeting production targets.

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 supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or CNC machinery are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators quickly address issues and maintain productivity. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient machine operation and minimizing production downtime.

What do machine operators do?

Machine operators are skilled in operating machinery, often specializing in one type of machinery or industry to become an expert. Machine operators also have a general skillset, knowing how to operate a wide range of industrial machinery. Since there are numerous industries and sectors that use a multitude of machinery, there is always room to learn more.

More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Arkansas? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Arkansas are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Arkansas? For Machine Operator jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Arkansas look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Arkansas are:
What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Arkansas with the most Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in AR? For Machine Operator jobs in AR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 3% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,279 per year, or $15 per hour.

Machine Operator

Essentra

Flippin, AR • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Essentra rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 84 rated plastic manufacturers

Job description

Essentra Components is a global market leader in plastic injection molded, vinyl dip molded and metal components. We have a history of over 65 years, producing essential components across a huge range of industries and applications.

Our international network extends to 29 countries and includes approximately 14 principal manufacturing facilities, 34 distribution centers, and 40 sales and service locations. 

At the center of everything is our purpose, to responsibly provide the products and services our customers need to succeed. Put simply, our purpose is why we exist as a company. Many companies claim to be changing the world; we don’t. But we do make a powerful difference to our customers. We make it work. Every one of us. Every day. 


We are currently hiring a Machine Operator at our Flippin, AR location on 3rd shift. Reporting to the Molding Shift Supervisor, the Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining Injection Molding machines. The hours are 12am to 8am. There is a 20% shift differential for working third shift.




Responsibilities:


Machine Operators duties include but are not limited to:

  • Monitor the production levels of the parts in the presses – responsible for maintaining molding press process parameters to produce a quality part within the required cycle times.
  • Keep injection molding machines operating efficiently – responsible for tracing and correcting faults in mold process conditions to correct part rejections such as short shots, burning, dimensional issues, splay, sticking, etc.
  • Work with the production team to maintain the quality of products produced.
  • Maintain maximum product output, ensuring that production is cost effective, making sure that products are produced on time and are of good quality.
  • Monitor all support equipment.
  • Make mod and/or material changes when scheduled as assigned.
  • Report all machine, equipment, production, or processing problems to the supervisor or qualified personnel.
  • Maintain work area in an orderly manner and keep free of debris, parts, runners, and items not required to perform job; clean and degrease machines and equipment as assigned; empty trash and recycle bins as needed.
  • Properly complete all required paperwork and electronic data entry of information pertaining to assignments. Ensure all down time is recorded correctly and accurately.
  • Comply with safety regulations; ensure that all safety devices are properly in place when performing duties.
  • Communicate any opportunities for improvements to management.
  • Actively assist in training others as assigned.
  • Perform other duties as assigned. 



Skills and Experience:


  • Be able to work accurately in fast pace, high change environment, with limited supervision: self-starter
  • Previous experience working in a similar job in a manufacturing plant is strongly preferred.
  • Rely on experience and judgement to plan and accomplish goals in a variety of tasks
  • Possess mechanical aptitude
  • Have excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Be able to work well in team environment and get along well with others
  • Ensure a positive work environment and awareness of company goals and objectives
  • Willingness to work overtime
  • This position is very active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling stooping crouching, crawling, climbing, and working in the heat. The Machine Operator must frequently lift and/or move items 25-50 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.


This job offers competitive hourly pay, full benefits package including health insurance and 401k plan, and paid time off.





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