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Machine Operator Jobs in Columbus, GA (NOW HIRING)

West Fraser, Inc

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

In the machine operator role the expectation is that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions. The successful applicant will be allowed an appropriate amount of ...

West Fraser

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

In the machine operator role the expectation is that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions. The successful applicant will be allowed an appropriate amount of ...

West Fraser

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

In the machine operator role the expectation is that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions. The successful applicant will be allowed an appropriate amount of ...

West Fraser

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

In the machine operator role the expectation is that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions. The successful applicant will be allowed an appropriate amount of ...

PBV

Machine Operator

Salem, AL · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

PURPOSE OF THE JOB Operates and monitors high speed machinery while complying with production and safety standards. RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES Maintains all product flow. Ensures comprehensive product ...

Loram

Machine Operator 1, TSO

Columbus, GA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Machine Operator 1 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Department: Operations Reports to: Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PURPOSE: Machine Operator 1 (MO1), a ...

Milliken & Company

Senior Machine Operator

Pine Mountain, GA · On-site

$12.75 - $15/hr

The Weaver is responsible for operating and monitoring assigned looms to ensure efficient, safe ... Check machine status regularly to ensure optimal performance. * Perform doff procedures and other ...

Milliken

Senior Machine Operator

Pine Mountain, GA · On-site

$12.75 - $15/hr

The Weaver is responsible for operating and monitoring assigned looms to ensure efficient, safe ... Check machine status regularly to ensure optimal performance. * Perform doff procedures and other ...

Onin Staffing

BOBST Machine Operator

Opelika, AL

$18/hr

The BOBST Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining BOBST die-cutting, folder-gluer, or related converting equipment to produce high-quality packaging products. This ...

Milliken

Senior Machine Operator

Pine Mountain, GA · On-site

$12.75 - $15/hr

Perform smashing operations across all machine and product types * Complete re-reed processes for all applicable machine and product types * Provide relief and breaks for associates as assigned

Milliken & Company

Senior Machine Operator

Pine Mountain, GA · On-site

$12.75 - $15/hr

Perform smashing operations across all machine and product types * Complete re-reed processes for all applicable machine and product types * Provide relief and breaks for associates as assigned

PBV

Machine Operator B

Salem, AL · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

PURPOSE OF THE JOB Operates and monitors high speed machinery while complying with production and safety standards. RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES Maintains all product flow. Ensures comprehensive product ...

W.C. Bradley Co.

Machine Operator Lead

Columbus, GA · On-site

Lead the production changeover process and ensure all Machine Operators complete their changeover assignments in a timely manner per Follow quality guidelines to remove all defective products or ...

W.C. Bradley Co.

Machine Operator Lead

Columbus, GA · On-site

Lead the production changeover process and ensure all Machine Operators complete their changeover assignments in a timely manner per Follow quality guidelines to remove all defective products or ...

PBV

Machine Operator B

Salem, AL · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

PURPOSE OF THE JOB Operates and monitors high speed machinery while complying with production and safety standards. RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES Maintains all product flow. Ensures comprehensive product ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Columbus, GA

Machine Operator information

See Columbus, GA salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Columbus, GA is $16.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $17.45 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 2000 a day?

Most jobs that pay $2,000 a day are high-level or specialized roles such as senior executives, certain medical specialists, or skilled contractors in industries like construction or oil and gas. These positions often require extensive experience, certifications, or advanced skills, and may involve long hours or high-risk environments.

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, certifications, and experience command higher salaries. Supervisory or lead machine operator positions can also offer increased pay, especially with additional responsibilities and technical expertise.

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A machine operator typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized skills or experience. High-paying roles in manufacturing or industrial settings may reach that level for experienced operators, especially in high-demand industries or with overtime, but such salaries are uncommon without advanced training or certifications. Most jobs offering $10,000 monthly income generally require specialized skills, certifications, or managerial responsibilities.

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 machine performance, ensure safety protocols are followed, and perform quality checks during production. Basic technical skills and understanding of safety standards are essential for this role.
More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, GA? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, GA? For Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, GA are:
What cities near Columbus, GA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Columbus, GA with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Columbus, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,860 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

West Fraser, Inc

Opelika, AL

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

West Fraser rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 18 rated forestry and logging companies

Job description

West Fraser's Opelika sawmill is hiring for a Machine Operator role.


In the machine operator role the expectation is that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions. The successful applicant will be allowed an appropriate amount of time to train for this job and must be willing to cross-train within any department.

What you will do:

  • Perform job assignments in an effective & timely manner
  • Safely operate equipment according to procedures
  • Must work rotating shifts, with shift premium available
  • Some overtime may be available

What you need to be successful:

  • Must be able to work rotating shifts
  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • Minimum age of 18 years
  • Excellent safety record
  • Follow all safety criteria and contribute to the safety program
  • Willing to work any shift
  • Good written and oral communication skills
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Excellent attendance record
  • Willing to cross-train on other equipment

Our highly competitive compensation package and outstanding benefits include:

  • Benefits starting Day 1
  • Competitive starting pay
  • On-the-job training
  • A culture that strongly believes in promoting from within
  • Medical/Dental/Vision
  • 401k, life insurance, disability
  • Paid vacation and holidays

Apply:

Come build your career with us at West Fraser: www.westfraser.com/careers

West Fraser is a diversified wood products company producing lumber, OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, pulp, newsprint, wood chips, and energy with over 60 facilities in Canada, the United States, and Europe. We are the largest lumber producer in North America, a leading global manufacturer of wood-based panels and the world’s largest producer of oriented strand board (OSB).

Our employees operate in a culture that values safety first and rewards hard work. We recognize and support our team culture and focus on growing our team by promoting from within – many of our employees have built their careers with us.

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please apply through our online application process as resumes will not be accepted at the site. No phone inquiries, please.

West Fraser believes inclusive, diverse teams build a more vibrant workforce, safer operations, and a stronger company overall. We strive to create workplaces and leadership teams that are reflective of the diverse communities we are a part of. We will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of race, gender, national origin, or any other protected legal characteristic.

West Fraser is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D & Drug-Free Workplace (DFW)

What West Fraser employees say

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About West Fraser

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

West Fraser is a well-established wood products company with a diverse portfolio of more than 60 facilities across Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. As a leader in sustainable forestry practices and high-efficiency wood product manufacturing, we have gained recognition for our commitment to excellence. Our core business involves producing lumber, engineered wood, and various other products, including pulp, newsprint, and renewable energy. With a focus on modern manufacturing facilities and product innovation, we are shaping a promising future.

Industry

Forestry

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Vancouver, BC, CA

Social media

Facebook

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