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Machine Operator Jobs in Fairbanks, AK (NOW HIRING)

CNC Machinist III - 2nd Shift

Fairbanks, AK ยท On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

The machinist will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining advanced CNC equipment, including 5-axis and 6-axis milling and turning centers, to produce complex components such as ...

CNC Machinist III - 2nd Shift

Fairbanks, AK ยท On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

The machinist will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining advanced CNC equipment, including 5-axis and 6-axis milling and turning centers, to produce complex components such as ...

CNC Machinist (2nd & 3rd Shift)

Fairbanks, AK ยท On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

The machinist will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining advanced CNC equipment, including 5-axis and 6-axis milling and turning centers, to produce complex components such as ...

Production Operator

Fairbanks, AK

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Ability to stage and remove product packaging in complex storage racking within operating areas and warehouses * Repackage product into proper containers for storage or shipment. This work is ...

Production Operator

Fairbanks, AK ยท On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Ability to stage and remove product packaging in complex storage racking within operating areas and warehouses * Repackage product into proper containers for storage or shipment. This work is ...

Excavator Operator Journeyman

Fairbanks, AK ยท On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

Any unsolicited resumes sent to Granite, including unsolicited resumes sent to a Granite mailing address, fax machine or email address, directly to Granite employees, or to Granite's resume database ...

Yard Worker/Forklift Operator Fairbanks, AK Performs a variety of yard activities including operating a forklift to move product and material throughout the yard. Provides customer service to ...

Load Builder/Forklift Operator Fairbanks, AK Performs routine loading and unloading of materials within yard or work site; assembles load packages into truck for delivery to customer job sites.

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Machine Operator information

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How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Fairbanks, AK is $18.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $19.95 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.

What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Fairbanks, AK?

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

What cities near Fairbanks, AK are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Fairbanks, AK with the most Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Fairbanks, AK as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,792 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Jumbo Operator

Barminco Mining Services USA LLC

Fairbanks, AK โ€ข On-site

Other

PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Who We Are:
Barminco forms part of the Perenti Group, a diversified global mining services company. Barminco can offer you opportunities to take your career to the next level as one of the world's largest hard-rock underground mining companies, with operations in Australia, Africa and North America. The Perenti Group operates across a wide range of mining sectors and offers unique career progression opportunities.

Barminco is looking for dedicated people that are eager to start a career in underground mining and join our vibrant team. The collective talent and expertise of our people is the key to our success, and we are looking for talented people to join us. We seek to build teams who are loyal, committed to our values and dedicated to delivering for our clients. In return, we provide state of the art facilities, equipment, technology and exciting opportunities to work on projects around the world.

Job Title: Jumbo Operator

The Opportunity:
Barminco Mining Services Ltd. has an exciting opportunity for a Jumbo Operator to join our team at a project location 65 miles outside of Elko, Nevada. Reporting to the Project Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for providing efficient high-speed development using a multi-boom jumbo following specific drill/blast designed patterns while meeting safety standards, targets and deadlines to maximize productivity and profitability.

Location: 65 Miles outside of Elko, Nevada
Shift: 28-days on / 28-days off rotation

Accommodation: Charter transportation from muster point. Camp and meals provided.
 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Demonstrate commitment to adhere to all Mine site safety rules, procedures and regulations, while ensuring the safety of others
  • Follow survey plans to determine location, spacing, depth and angle of holes
  • Assess ground conditions at the work area, sounding, scaling and washing-down face
  • Assist with other aspects of the operation such as mine services and mucking, when required
  • Work as part of a team with engineers, geologists, surveyors, operations and maintenance
  • Boring of development excavation profiles to desired profile and in accordance with the mine’s safety act and regulations
  • Installation of ground support in accordance with ground control management plan
  • Ensure that work quality is high and that all controls are used and adhered to
  • Ensure that equipment is used in accordance with training provided 
  • Ensure that the equipment used is maintained in good operating condition at all times
  • Document reports detailing work performed, problems diagnosed, pre checks on all equipment and machinery used in the day and all other required shift paperwork 
  • Immediately report problems/failures that may impact the team, or the company, to your Shift Supervisor
  • Maintain and demonstrate a professional and courteous relationship with employees, subcontractors, the client and all other personnel 
  • Practice good general housekeeping in the work area and equipment
  • Maintain a valid Driver’s License; manual transmission experience an asset 
  • Understand and comply with all PPE requirements in work areas
  • Other duties may be assigned by your Supervisor, as required.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum High School Diploma or equivalency
  • Preferred; 5 years’ experience in underground hard rock mining
  • Minimum 3 years’ experience in a Jumbo Operator role 
  • Competent in bolt, mesh and boring with a 2-boom jumbo
  • The ability to work both independently and within a team in a fast-paced, rapidly changing, cross-cultural environment with high degree of professionalism and self-motivation is essential 
  • Proven ability to recognize and follow verbal and written instructions
  • Able to effectively prioritize workload to ensure deadlines are met 
  • Must have good radio etiquette and strong communications skills
  • Eagerness to learn and grow

Work Conditions:

  • Ability to do shift camp work on a rotational basis (dayshift/nightshift), typically the rotations are 4 weeks on site (minimum 12-hour days), followed by 4 weeks off – working statutory holidays as they fall within the rotation  
  • While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to communicate, sit, stand, walk, climb, reach, push/pull, manipulate objects and work in awkward positions
  • Duties may involve moving materials weighing up to 50 pounds 
  • Manual dexterity and good eye-hand coordination are required 
  • Extreme weather conditions
  • Noise level in the work environment is moderate to high

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary, paid time off and comprehensive benefits. 
  • Opportunities for career development and advancement within the company.
  • A supportive, dynamic work environment focused on growth and success.

Additional Information:
The health and safety of our employees is our top priority. Selected candidates will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment Fit-for-Duty medical, including alcohol and drug screening.