ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Operator Jobs in Columbus, MS (NOW HIRING)

STS Technical Services

CNC Operator

West Point, MS · On-site

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

Machine Setup and Operation * Set up and operate CNC equipment according to daily work orders and ... CNC Operator in West Point, Mississippi. Equal Opportunity Employer STS Technical Services is an ...

Automation Personnel Services

Hoist Operator

Columbus, MS

$25 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with a long-lasting machine and maintenance ... Hoist Operator Duties and Responsibilities * Controlling levers, pedals, and throttles to control ...

Valmet

Utility Operator

Columbus, MS

  • Retirement

Operating Autoclaves. * Making minor repairs and adjustments to Autoclaves. * Installing and ... Loading machines. * Moving raw material, mixing cement. * Cleaning, removing waste materials from ...

Valmet

Utility Operator

Columbus, MS · On-site

  • Retirement

Operating Autoclaves. * Making minor repairs and adjustments to Autoclaves. * Installing and ... Loading machines. * Moving raw material, mixing cement. * Cleaning, removing waste materials from ...

Automation Personnel Services

Hoist Operator

Columbus, MS

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with a long-lasting machine and maintenance ... Hoist Operator Duties and Responsibilities • Controlling levers, pedals, and throttles to control ...

Abb Holdings Inc

BWS Operator (3rd Shift)

Columbus, MS · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The BWS Operator is responsible for supporting the unit in achieving the set production targets by ... Uses machinery and equipment on the shop floor. Reads and interprets the technical diagrams ...

Burns Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Columbus, MS · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator Columbus, MS Burns Group is a family-owned business, established in 1977 ... Experience with Trimble GPS or other machine control systems is preferred but not required

Stark Aerospace

CNC Machinist

Columbus, MS

$20 - $27.25/hr

Troubleshoot machine malfunctions, setup discrepancies, and machining inefficiencies to minimize ... Preferred Qualifications: * 3+ years of experience operating CNC machines in a precision ...

Israel Aerospace Industries

CNC Machinist

Columbus, MS · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Troubleshoot machine malfunctions, setup discrepancies, and machining inefficiencies to minimize ... Preferred Qualifications: * 3+ years of experience operating CNC machines in a precision ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Columbus, MS

Machine Operator information

See Columbus, MS salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Columbus, MS is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $19.04 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

What cities near Columbus, MS are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbus, MS with the most Machine Operator job openings:

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Columbus, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,964 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

CNC Operator

STS Technical Services

West Point, MS • On-site

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

Contractor

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

STS Technical Services is hiring a CNC Operator in West Point, Mississippi, to support precision metal cutting and fabrication operations in a manufacturing environment.
This role is responsible for setting up and operating CNC equipment, loading programs, verifying cut quality, inspecting finished parts and maintaining production accuracy in accordance with engineering drawings, work orders and Quality Management System requirements.
Position Overview
The CNC Operator supports daily production by safely operating computer-numerically controlled cutting equipment used to produce precision metal components.
This position requires hands-on CNC experience, the ability to read engineering drawings and GD&T callouts, familiarity with G-code and a strong understanding of material handling, inspection, preventive maintenance and shop safety.
Machine Setup and Operation
  • Set up and operate CNC equipment according to daily work orders and router packages
  • Load and interpret CNC programs using G-code or machine-native formats
  • Make minor program edits as authorized
  • Select and install the correct consumables based on material type and thickness
  • Install tips, electrodes, shields and swirl rings as required
  • Set plasma cutting parameters, including amperage, cut speed, pierce delay and gas pressure
  • Nest parts using CAM or nesting software to maximize material utilization and reduce scrap
  • Perform test cuts before beginning full production runs
  • Verify dimensional accuracy before releasing parts for production

Quality and Inspection
  • Perform in-process inspections using calipers, squares and tape measures
  • Verify part dimensions against engineering requirements
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings
  • Interpret GD&T callouts and cut-to-size specifications
  • Identify, tag and segregate nonconforming material
  • Initiate nonconformance documentation when required
  • Maintain first-article documentation
  • Complete traveler sign-offs according to QMS procedures
  • Monitor cut quality, including dross, bevel angle, kerf width and surface condition

Material Handling
  • Stage plate, sheet and structural material at the machine
  • Use overhead cranes, forklifts or manual handling methods as required
  • Verify material certifications before cutting
  • Confirm heat and lot traceability
  • Label, handle and store completed parts to protect them from damage
  • Maintain part identification throughout production
  • Return and properly store remnant material
  • Update material inventory when required

Preventive Maintenance and Housekeeping
  • Perform daily pre-shift machine inspections
  • Check water table levels
  • Maintain clean machine rails
  • Verify Z-axis calibration
  • Inspect consumable condition
  • Remove slag, spatter and water table debris according to preventive maintenance schedules
  • Lubricate drive components as required
  • Check drive system alignment according to OEM maintenance schedules
  • Record machine downtime
  • Track consumable usage
  • Document maintenance activities
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with 5S standards

Safety Responsibilities
  • Follow all Lockout/Tagout procedures before maintenance or consumable changes
  • Wear required personal protective equipment
  • Maintain proper ventilation and fume extraction during cutting operations
  • Report unsafe conditions immediately
  • Report near misses and workplace incidents to supervision
  • Follow all established shop safety requirements

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • At least two years of hands-on CNC experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings
  • Ability to read material certifications
  • Basic math skills involving fractions, decimals and measurement conversions
  • Proficiency using calipers, tape measures and combination squares
  • Ability to safely operate an overhead crane and/or forklift
  • Ability to obtain required equipment certification if not already certified

Preferred Qualifications
  • Technical or vocational training in welding, machining or fabrication
  • Experience using nesting software such as Hypertherm ProNest, SigmaNEST or equivalent
  • Familiarity with Hypertherm plasma cutting systems
  • Familiarity with Lincoln Electric plasma cutting systems
  • Familiarity with ESAB plasma cutting systems
  • Experience working in defense, aerospace or ISO 9001-certified manufacturing environments
  • Knowledge of mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum and high-strength steel alloys
  • Familiarity with basic G-code editing
  • Familiarity with CNC controller interfaces such as Burny, Hypertherm Phoenix or similar systems
  • Overhead crane or forklift certification

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to occasionally lift or move 51 to 100 pounds with assistance or equipment
  • Ability to stand and walk on concrete flooring throughout the shift
  • Ability to frequently bend, stoop and reach
  • Ability to work around heat, noise and fumes
  • Manual dexterity required for precise machine adjustments

Work Environment
This position operates in a manufacturing shop environment with exposure to metal fumes, UV and IR arc light, elevated noise levels and hot work surfaces.
Temperatures may vary seasonally. Required personal protective equipment must be worn while working on the shop floor.
About STS Technical Services
STS Technical Services is a Top 100 Staffing Firm that partners with leading aerospace, manufacturing, defense and industrial organizations across the United States. We connect skilled professionals with career opportunities where their experience can make an immediate impact.
Apply Today
If you have CNC cutting experience and are ready to support precision metal fabrication operations, apply today to join STS Technical Services as a CNC Operator in West Point, Mississippi.
Equal Opportunity Employer
STS Technical Services is an equal opportunity employer.
#IndeedSTS

Apply