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Machine Operator Jobs in Gaffney, SC (NOW HIRING)

Dave Steel Company

Machine operator 1st Shift

Chesnee, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Reporting to a Machine Supervisor, The Machine Operator will be responsible for but not limited to: * Read and interpret shop drawings, weld symbols and specifications as needed for specific.

New

Dave Steel Company

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Chesnee, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Reporting to a Machine Supervisor, The Machine Operator will be responsible for but not limited to: * Read and interpret shop drawings, weld symbols and specifications as needed for specific.

New

ProAmpac

Machine Operator (Nights) 7PM-7AM

Forest City, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Prior machine operating experience is preferred, but not required. Why Join Us? * Schedule: The 2-2-3 schedule rotation provides you with many days off throughout the week and every other weekend.

JIT Manufacturing, Inc

CNC Machine Operator

Cowpens, SC · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Minimum of 1 year of experience operating CNC machinery preferred but not required. * Proficient in reading and interpreting engineering drawings. * Strong mathematical and measurement skills.

JIT Manufacturing INC

CNC Machine Operator

Cowpens, SC · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Minimum of 1 year of experience operating CNC machinery preferred but not required. * Proficient in reading and interpreting engineering drawings. * Strong mathematical and measurement skills.

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Gaffney, SC

Machine Operator information

See Gaffney, SC salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Gaffney, SC is $16.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.03 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 Gaffney, SC? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Gaffney, SC are:
What cities near Gaffney, SC are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Gaffney, SC with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Gaffney, SC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,010 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Machine operator 1st Shift

Machine operator 1st Shift

Dave Steel Company

Chesnee, SC • On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Since 1929, Dave Steel Company, a Walters Group Company, has primarily focused on industrial projects requiring expert fabrication, exceptional quality, and exemplary service across the United States. As Dave Steel grows and expands into new markets, we are seeking to welcome aspiring and driven individuals to our team who share our vision, mission and core values.
We are incredibly proud of our projects, to name a few: Sierra Nevada Brewery in Asheville, NC, the Mission Hospital Cancer Center in Asheville, NC, The ASU End Zone in Boone, NC, and the Pratt Whitney Building in Asheville, NC.
We're an AISC Certified Fabricator in business since 1929. We are committed to supporting and developing our teams. We also ensure a positive, safe, collaborative work environment with ample personal and career development opportunities.
If you want to be a part of our team - read on and apply. Even if you feel like you don't meet all the criteria, please give it a shot, and still apply.
Key Responsibilities:
Reporting to a Machine Supervisor, The Machine Operator will be responsible for but not limited to:
  • Read and interpret shop drawings, weld symbols and specifications as needed for specific.
  • Efficient use of machining techniques and methods to set up machinery for production.
  • Efficient operation of CNC Equipment.
  • Effective following of CNC Equipment Operational and Processing procedures.
  • Download proper operating program and make minor adjustments to maintain product specifications.
  • Assure that necessary tools are installed for processing.
  • Assure positioning of materials prior to entry to the machinery.
  • Monitor for any problems and regularly check product to specifications.
  • Make minor adjustments as needed or seek assistance for resolving difficult operating problems.
  • Assure that specifications are met and quality of product is acceptable.
  • Responsible for keeping equipment and work area clean, organized and well maintained.
  • Routine maintenance as deemed "Attendant Maintenance"
  • Other duties as determined by Supervisor.

Work Location:
  • Chesnee Fabrication Facility
  • 1st Shift
  • Monday to Friday

Position Requirements:
  • Ability to read and follow written instructions.
  • Must have good math skills and be able to add or subtract feet.
  • Valid Driver's License.

Apply