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Machine Operator Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

Palmetto State Armory L

CNC Operator I

Summerville, SC · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

A machine operator will run machining equipment and is responsible for the loading/unloading, measuring, and making routine dimensional adjustments. Machine Operators must follow all operator ...

Palmetto State Armory L

CNC Operator I

Summerville, SC · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

A machine operator will run machining equipment and is responsible for the loading/unloading, measuring, and making routine dimensional adjustments. Machine Operators must follow all operator ...

Palmetto State Armory L

CNC Operator I

Summerville, SC · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

A machine operator will run machining equipment and is responsible for the loading/unloading, measuring, and making routine dimensional adjustments. Machine Operators must follow all operator ...

Steel Technologies

Slitter Operator - 2nd Shift

Huger, SC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

As a Slitter Operator at Steel Technologies, your main responsibility is to setup and operate a ... Adjust machine setup to correct defects as needed throughout slitting (if applicable) * Communicate ...

Aerotek

Cnc Operator

Ladson, SC

$27 - $28/hr

CNC Machine Operator This role is responsible for operating CNC mills and/or lathes to produce high‑quality parts that meet strict quality and tolerance requirements. Ideal candidates have ...

Aerotek

Cnc Operator

Ladson, SC

$27 - $28/hr

CNC Machine Operator This role is responsible for operating CNC mills and/or lathes to produce high‑quality parts that meet strict quality and tolerance requirements. Ideal candidates have ...

Aerotek

Cnc Operator

Ladson, SC

$27 - $28/hr

CNC Machine Operator This role is responsible for operating CNC mills and/or lathes to produce high‑quality parts that meet strict quality and tolerance requirements. Ideal candidates have ...

Jobs on Cash

Production Associate

Ridgeville, SC · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Fulltime Responsibilities: - Duties Include but are not limited to: § Dovetail Machine Operator § Drawer Sander § Drawer Notcher § Sort and Stack Drawers on Carts § Sort and Stack Dovetailed ...

Aerotek

Packaging Operator

Summerville, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Perform machine setups, changeovers, adjustments, and basic troubleshooting to maximize production output and minimize downtime. * Verify all packaging specifications before production runs ...

Aerotek

Packaging Operator

Summerville, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Perform machine setups, changeovers, adjustments, and basic troubleshooting to maximize production output and minimize downtime. * Verify all packaging specifications before production runs ...

Islander 71

Porter / Dishwasher

Isle Of Palms, SC

$12.50 - $16/hr

NOW HIRING FULL TIME & PART TIME Dishwasher / Dish Machine Operator The ideal candidates will be self-starters who can work independently and have a great work ethic. We welcome passionate, driven ...

Epic Hospitality

Dishwasher

Sullivans Island, SC

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

NOW HIRING FULL TIME & PART TIME Dishwasher / Dish Machine Operator The ideal candidates will be self-starters who can work independently and have a great work ethic. We welcome passionate, driven ...

Epic Hospitality

Porter / Dishwasher

Isle Of Palms, SC

$12.50 - $16/hr

NOW HIRING FULL TIME & PART TIME Dishwasher / Dish Machine Operator The ideal candidates will be self-starters who can work independently and have a great work ethic. We welcome passionate, driven ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Charleston, SC

Machine Operator information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Charleston, SC is $17.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $18.22 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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

While most machine operator roles do not reach $500,000 annually, high-level positions in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or executive management can exceed this income level. Achieving such earnings typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, certifications, and often leadership responsibilities or ownership stakes.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $3,000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, high-level consultants, and skilled trades like offshore drilling or certain construction projects. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, certifications, or working in high-demand industries with long hours or high risk.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

The average salary for a machine operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled operators with certifications or experience working with specialized machinery may earn higher wages, and some positions offer shift differentials or overtime pay.

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 the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator roles are often found in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where advanced skills and certifications are required. These positions may offer higher salaries due to the technical expertise, safety requirements, and experience needed, with some earning over $70,000 annually depending on location and industry.

What are machine operators?

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 is the work of 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 troubleshoot issues as needed, often following safety protocols and using tools like control panels or gauges.
More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Charleston, SC? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Charleston, SC are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Charleston, SC? For Machine Operator jobs in Charleston, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Charleston, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Charleston, SC are:
What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Charleston, SC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,399 per year, or $17 per hour.

CNC Operator I

Palmetto State Armory L

Summerville, SC • On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

JOB PURPOSE

This position is responsible for the fabrication of high precision machined components. A machine operator will run machining equipment and is responsible for the loading/unloading, measuring, and making routine dimensional adjustments. Machine Operators must follow all operator instructions along with strict adherence to the Quality System.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Adhere to all Safety Principles.
  • Adhere to all Quality System Standards.
  • Operate simple to complex CNC machines including Saws, CNC lathes, Gun drill and CNC mills.
  • Make required adjustments to maintain specifications utilizing engineering drawings, verbal instructions, written Operator Instructions, engineering drawings and boundary samples.
  • Process components within established operator cycle times.
  • Measure components and test complete assemblies using calibrated test and measuring equipment.
  • Prepare required written documentation, i.e., Product Acceptance Records, Nonconforming Material Reports.
  • Assist in on-the-job training of other employees.
  • Participate in Safety, Quality, Cost and Delivery improvements.
  • Adhere to guidelines and procedures to ensure the safe handling, removal, and disposal of both hazardous and non-hazardous materials.
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 18 Years or older
  • Ability to read and understand Safety Rules, Standard Operating Procedures, Work Instructions, and engineering drawings.
  • Ability to operate CNC equipment.
  • Ability to use common and power tools.
  • Ability to use calibrated test and measuring equipment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with work groups.
  • Ability to apply problem solving techniques to troubleshoot and implement corrective action.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Employees work in a controlled climate.


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • The employee will be sitting, standing, lifting, bending, reaching, daily.
  • Ability to lift 45lbs.
  • Ability to stand, bend and reach for an 8-12-hour shift.

Export Control Compliance Notice

This position may involve access to technology or software source code subject to U.S. export control laws (ITAR/EAR). Employment is contingent on verifying U.S. Person status or obtaining any necessary export license/confirming the availability of a license exception. Applicants must provide information for export control screening, which will be reviewed for compliance. DC Machine may elect not to pursue a license or exception and may decline to proceed with an applicant on that basis.