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Machine Operator Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Novolex

Machine Operator

Mooresville, NC

$16 - $19.25/hr

Machine Operator |Mooresville, NC | HIRING IMMEDIATELY Immediately Hiring Experienced Machine Operators! Pay range $22.39 to $39.98 (based on experience) paid weekly (additional $1 per hour night ...

JBS USA

MACHINE OPERATOR

Lenoir, NC · On-site

$18.65/hr

Description MACHINE OPERATOR 1ST SHIFT- Starting Pay $18.65/HR Location: Lenoir NC Date Posted: 06/19/2026 Category: Hourly Production Description Machine Operator JBS is seeking an hourly Machine ...

JBS USA

MACHINE OPERATOR

Lenoir, NC · On-site

MACHINE OPERATOR 1ST SHIFT- Starting Pay $18.65/HR Location: Lenoir NC Date Posted: 06/19/2026 Category: Hourly Production Description Machine Operator JBS is seeking an hourly Machine Operator Team ...

JBS USA

MACHINE OPERATOR

Lenoir, NC

$18.65/hr

Description Position at JBS USA MACHINE OPERATOR 1ST SHIFT- Starting Pay $18.65/HR Location: Lenoir NC Date Posted: 06/19/2026 Category: Hourly Production Description Machine Operator JBS is seeking ...

JBS Imports

MACHINE OPERATOR

Lenoir, NC · On-site

$18.65/hr

Description Position at JBS USA MACHINE OPERATOR 1ST SHIFT- Starting Pay $18.65/HR Location: Lenoir NC Date Posted: 06/19/2026 Category: Hourly Production Description Machine Operator JBS is seeking ...

Adecco

Machine Operator

Swannanoa, NC · On-site

$17/hr

Adecco is currently assisting a local Customer in their search for a Machine Operator positions in Swannanoa, NC This is a great opportunity to further your existing skills as a Machine Operator ...

Bekaert Textiles USA, Inc.

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

Winston Salem, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

A great machine operator is reliable and able to work with attention to detail and safety standards. On-the-job training is a good way to discover how to do the job better, so you should have ...

Gildan Activewear

Machine Operator

Mocksville, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Machine Operators are responsible for safely and efficiently operating production equipment while maintaining product quality and meeting production standards. Schedule: * 12-hour shifts: 7AM-7PM or ...

NCW

Machine Operator

Huntersville, NC

$17/hr

Position Summary We are seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Machine Operator to join a manufacturing and production team in Huntersville, NC. This position is responsible for operating ...

Adecco

Machine Operator

Burgaw, NC · On-site

$19/hr

Adecco is currently assisting a local Customer in their search for a Machine Operator in Burgaw, NC! This is a great opportunity to further your existing skills as a Machine Operator while learning ...

Kyocera

Machine Operator

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

$18 - $22.56/hr

We're hiring a Machine Operator (Green Machine) to support production and ensure high-quality output in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. Pay Range - $18 to $22.56 per hour (Actual base pay based ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Fletcher, NC · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Kelly ® is looking for Machine Operators to work at a premier automotive component manufacturer in Fletcher, NC . Let us help you grow at work and discover the next step in your career, all while ...

Kyocera

Machine Operator

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

$18 - $22.56/hr

We're hiring a Machine Operator (Green Machine) to support production and ensure high-quality output in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. Pay Range - $18 to $22.56 per hour (Actual base pay based ...

Kyocera

Machine Operator

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

$18 - $22.56/hr

We're hiring a Machine Operator (Green Machine) to support production and ensure high-quality output in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. Pay Range - $18 to $22.56 per hour (Actual base pay based ...

Aliaxis

Machine Operator

Asheville, NC · On-site

$23.70 - $27.32/hr

A Machine Operator ensures that the final product aligns with the company's quality standards which includes the reliability, usability and performance of the product. In general, these meticulous ...

Novolex

Machine Operator

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Machine Operator |Mooresville, NC | HIRING IMMEDIATELY Immediately Hiring Experienced Machine Operators! Pay range $22.39 to $39.98 (based on experience) paid weekly (additional $1 per hour night ...

Novolex

Machine Operator

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Machine Operator |Mooresville, NC | HIRING IMMEDIATELY Immediately Hiring Experienced Machine Operators! Pay range $22.39 to $39.98 (based on experience) paid weekly (additional $1 per hour night ...

Novolex

Machine Operator

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Machine Operator |Mooresville, NC | HIRING IMMEDIATELY Immediately Hiring Experienced Machine Operators! Pay range $22.39 to $39.98 (based on experience) paid weekly (additional $1 per hour night ...

Kyocera

Machine Operator

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

$18 - $22.56/hr

We're hiring a Machine Operator (Green Machine) to support production and ensure high-quality output in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. Pay Range - $18 to $22.56 per hour (Actual base pay based ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in North Carolina

Machine Operator information

See North Carolina salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in North Carolina is $16.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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, often with shifts that include nights and weekends.

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, follow safety protocols, and may perform quality checks during production. Proficiency with tools, attention to detail, and adherence to safety standards are essential in this role.
More about Machine Operator jobs

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For Machine Operator jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in North Carolina are:

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Cities in North Carolina with the most Machine Operator job openings:

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For Machine Operator jobs in NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in North Carolina as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,377 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Machine Operator

Mooresville, NC

Novolex
Plastics Packaging Film and Sheet (including Laminated) Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Novolexexternal

$16 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Novolex rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 105 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Why Choose Us?

Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging that supports multiple industries including foodservice, restaurant delivery and carryout, food processing, grocery and retail, and industrial sectors. Novolex manufacturing and sourcing expertise spans a diverse range of substrates including resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and customized solutions with 120 product categories, 250 brands and over 39,000 SKUs.

Our Sustainability Commitment

The Novolex sustainability vision is built upon three pillars: our products, our operations and our people. Each is critically important to our growth and future as a business. These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives.


Machine Operator |Mooresville, NC | HIRING IMMEDIATELY

Immediately Hiring Experienced Machine Operators! Pay range $22.39 to $39.98 (based on experience) paid weekly (additional $1 per hour night shift differential).

Now hiring Operator Trainees also!

 

Machine Operator available shifts: 

Nights 7PM - 7AM (2-2-3 schedule)

Days 7AM - 7PM (2-2-3 schedule)

Responsibilities:

As a Machine Operator, your role is critical to the success of the line and the team. Each line has a target goal and achievement of these targets ensures we cover our planned costs and help us to achieve profitability each year. A successful business allows for reinvestment in our people, our site, and our business. 

Operators are responsible for learning how to operate multiple lines. Our Operators will collaborate with packers, Leads, Supervisors, Maintenance, Quality, etc. to ensure the end product meets or exceeds customer expectations and our internal targets are met. Operators are expected to ensure focus on safety first, quality second, and productivity and teamwork subsequently. Ideally, we are achieving all three each day!   

Safety 

  • Seek to understand and support a safety culture and workplace 
  • Remain aware of surroundings and obtain knowledge of all required PPE for the job 
  • Responsible for following all required safety procedures are for each task you do 
  • Keep work area clean and organized  
  • Report any safety concern, risk, hazard, near miss, or injury immediately to the appropriate supervision on shift 

Quality 

  • Will inspect product for defects and packing finished goods into correct configuration 
  • Validating parts for quality (weight, diameter, color, clarity) 
  • Report any concerns on quality of product immediately to appropriate supervision on shift 

Your Role 

  • Startup/shut down and basic troubleshooting of extruders, thermoformers, automation and auxiliary equipment.  
  • Perform color changes and job changes according to the production schedule. 
  • Ensure that all the assigned equipment runs to standard. 
  • Complete PM duties assigned as part of the TPM program 
  • Completes all of the necessary paperwork associated with running the line in a timely and accurate manner. 
  • Participate in continues improvement projects. 
  • Works with minimal supervision in the assigned work cell and communicates with the team to escalate problems if needed according to the existing procedures.
  • Work each day to meet or exceed line targets, while ensuring the safety and quality of the team and the product
  • Operators should remain focused on work; cell phones use is not permitted unless the line is down, or it is break time 
  • Operators will support team members who may need assistance or additional training as the need arises…we are one team with team results
  • Other tasks to support the overall team as needed 

Requirements:

  • High school diploma preferred. 
  • Experience in the plastics industry highly preferred

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