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Machine Operator Jobs in Gonzales, LA (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator I

Convent, LA

$16.25 - $19/hr

Coordinates machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand ... Performs operator maintenance on fork trucks. * Inspects equipment before use. * Locates material ...

Forklift Operator I

Convent, LA · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Coordinates machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand ... Performs operator maintenance on fork trucks. * Inspects equipment before use. * Locates material ...

Forklift Operator I (copy)

Convent, LA · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Coordinates machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand ... Performs operator maintenance on fork trucks. * Inspects equipment before use. * Locates material ...

FERRYBOAT OPERATOR 1-3

Plaquemine, LA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

About This Position The incumbent operates an engine room and machinery on board or operates and ... May be filled as a as Ferryboat Operator 1, 2, or 3 depending on the level of experience of the ...

New

... machine prestart and post operations checklists. • Providing daily feedback on machine and ... were operating (designated as per the agreed customer reference system). Expected results: • ...

New

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Operators are also expected to assist in other duties around the job site as needed. This position ... Coordinates machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand ...

CNC Press Brake Operator

Walker, LA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Operate CNC press brake machines, to bend and form sheet metal according to detailed blueprints and specifications * Program CNC press brakes using CAD/CAM software to set up accurate bends and ...

Operators are also expected to assist in other duties around the job site as needed.This position ... Coordinates machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand ...

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Operators are also expected to assist in other duties around the job site as needed.This position ... Coordinates machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand ...

Production Line Operator Department: Production Shift: AM or PM Schedule: AM Schedule: Monday ... Monitor machine functions, product flow, and quality indicators, responding promptly to issues or ...

Production Line Operator

Reserve, LA · On-site

$10.50 - $15/hr

Production Line Operator Department: Production Shift: AM or PM Schedule: AM Schedule: Monday ... Monitor machine functions, product flow, and quality indicators, responding promptly to issues or ...

Production Line Operator Department: Production Shift: AM or PM Schedule: AM Schedule: Monday ... Monitor machine functions, product flow, and quality indicators, responding promptly to issues or ...

Our current operating structure includes Operator I through Operator IV . The Process Operator will ... Oversee the operation of machinery and equipment by monitoring various parameters such as ...

Process Operator

Plaquemine, LA · On-site

$33 - $41.56/hr

Our current operating structure includes Operator I through Operator IV . The Process Operator will ... Oversee the operation of machinery and equipment by monitoring various parameters such as ...

Adjust machine settings to complete tasks according to specification, accurately and in a timely manner. * Move hand and foot levers to control diesel, electric, gasoline or steam-powered operating ...

Adjust machine settings to complete tasks according to specification, accurately and in a timely manner. * Move hand and foot levers to control diesel, electric, gasoline or steam-powered operating ...

Showing results 41-60

Machine Operator information

See Gonzales, LA salary details

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How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Gonzales, LA is $15.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $16.78 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 the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Gonzales, LA?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Gonzales, LA are:

What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Gonzales, LA?

For Machine Operator jobs in Gonzales, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Gonzales, LA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Gonzales, LA with the most Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Gonzales, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,585 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Forklift Operator I

Crest Industries

Convent, LA

$16.25 - $19/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Come join our team at Millennium Galvanizing!

Millennium Galvanizing is a proud member of the American Galvanizing Association. We operate with a lead free kettle using special High Grade Zinc that is supported by the most technologically advanced equipment in our industry.

Millennium Galvanizing can also perform painting, metalizing and paint over bare blasted steel as well as paint over galvanized steel for sensitive areas of installation that require an aesthetically pleasing coating application.

Millennium Galvanizing is looking for a Forklift Operator to join the team in Convent. The Forklift Operator must be capable of operating a forklift in a galvanizing facility.  This individual should have a working knowledge of material handling and unloading materials off of trucks.  The Forklift operator is still in the training and learning stages. They are mostly unloading basic incoming loads and laying the steel out with comparable steel in the yard. This ensures the yard remains in a neat and efficient order. This role will be at the beginning stages of bringing steel into the shop to begin the acid treatment.
COMPETENCIES:
  • Customer Focus
  • Decision Quality
  • Business Insight
  • Drives Results
  • Collaborates
  • Communicates Effectively
  • Courage
  • Instills Trust
  • Manages Ambiguity
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Learns and follows safety regulations.
  • Takes actions to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as other equipment, other workers, or falling objects.
  • Monitors operations to ensure that health and safety standards are met.
  • Adjusts handwheels and depresses pedals to control attachments.
  • Starts engines, moves throttles, switches, or levers, or depresses pedals to operate machines.
  • Coordinates machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from team members.
  • Loads and moves equipment, or other materials, using fork trucks or related equipment.
  • Checks fuel supplies at sites to ensure adequate availability.
  • Performs operator maintenance on fork trucks.
  • Inspects equipment before use.
  • Locates material using project numbers and piecemarks.
REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret typed reports and schedules required.
  • Certifications or prior experience using moving machinery, such as forklifts, preferred.
  • Working knowledge of material handling, banding, palletizing, and loading on to truck preferred.
  • Ability to perform basic operator maintenance on fork trucks required.
  • Must complete on-site training and demonstrate safe operation of machinery.
Millennium Galvanizing is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.

Millennium Galvanizing is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request information regarding reasonable accommodation, contact your Human Resource Business Partner.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Part of the CREST INDUSTRIES family of companies.