1

Machine Operator Jobs in Grand Island, NE (NOW HIRING)

Process Machine Operator - B Position Type: Regular - Full-Time Grade: 5A Requisition ID: 43488 About the role. In every role, McCainers are ambitious, curious, and interested in helping each other ...

Role Overview The Machine Operator sets up, operates, and maintains manual or computerized machinery and hand tools while ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production. - Location: Hastings ...

Master Machine Operator, Nights

Grand Island, NE · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Master Machine Operator, Nights Position Type: Regular - Full-Time Requisition ID: 43394 About the role. In every role, McCainers are ambitious, curious, and interested in helping each other create ...

Process Operator

Grand Island, NE · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Machine Operators sets up lines to meet the requirements of product specifications. * Observes operation of equipment and performs necessary adjustments to ensure product specifications are met.

Process Operator - D

Grand Island, NE · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Machine Operators sets up lines to meet the requirements of product specifications. * Observes operation of equipment and performs necessary adjustments to ensure product specifications are met.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Machine Operator information

See Grand Island, NE salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Grand Island, NE is $18.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 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 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, perform quality checks, and follow safety protocols, often using tools like control panels and gauges. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and sometimes certification or training in specific machinery.

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 shifts, often requiring knowledge of specific machinery and safety protocols.

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Grand Island, NE? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Grand Island, NE are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Grand Island, NE look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Grand Island, NE are:
What cities near Grand Island, NE are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Grand Island, NE with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Grand Island, NE as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,791 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Process Machine Operator

McCain Foods Limited

Grand Island, NE • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


McCain Foods rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 436 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Position Title: Process Machine Operator - B
Position Type: Regular - Full-Time
Requisition ID: 43488
About the role.
In every role, McCainers are ambitious, curious, and interested in helping each other create good work experiences. We think about the customer and make doing business with McCain easy.
McCain machine operators will operate all related production equipment safely and efficiently to produce a quality product. The working schedule will be on B crew 6 pm to 6 am, a 12-hour rotating schedule.
Accountabilities:
  • Machine Operators sets up lines to meet the requirements of product specifications.
  • Observes operation of equipment and performs necessary adjustments to ensure product specifications are met.
  • Controls line flows and blend rates as specified by product specification.
  • Monitors product transfer points of equipment and adjusts accordingly to reduce waste.
  • Communicates any changes in product flow, equipment malfunctions, or deviation from specifications to the Production Supervisor.
  • Assists in the development of training programs and training of both production line workers and laborers.
  • Inspect products to verify conformance to specifications and perform necessary adjustments to ensure compliance.
  • Review SPC test results to understand when and if to make adjustments to keep the process in control.
  • Recommends measures to improve production methods, equipment performance, and quality of product.
  • Initiates or suggests plans to motivate workers to achieve goals.
  • Completes end-of-shift reports with all required information at the end of the shift.
  • Evaluate line worker performance and communicate observations to supervisor, including areas for improvement.
  • Report any changes in product flow, equipment malfunctions, deviations, or safety hazards to the production supervisor or mechanic.
  • Monitors and encourages personnel to ensure good manufacturing practices.
  • Provides fellow operators with verbal/written information concerning production efficiencies and product quality.
  • Performs light maintenance of production/process equipment.
  • Analyzes and resolves work problems or assists employees in solving work problems.
  • Updates information on SACD Boards and Hour-by-Hour Boards.
  • Strictly adheres to all company and plant policies concerning safety, performing proper Lock-Out and tag-out procedures, using proper lifting techniques, wearing effectively all personal protective equipment (PPE) as required, proper walking/stepping, and all other safety procedures related to your duties.
  • Adheres to all company and plant policies related to GMPs, any work rules and procedures.
  • Performs activities of production laborers as needed.
  • Regular and predictable attendance is essential for meeting the performance expectations of the position.

Work Environment
Regular exposure to:
  • Wet and/or humid conditions
  • Moving mechanical parts
  • Fumes or airborne particles
  • Toxic or caustic chemicals

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent plus six months to one-year related experience or training.
  • Proficiency in team building; excellent communication/interpersonal skills to motivate, encourage, train, direct, and coach employees.
  • Must be able to enter data into a computer.
  • Must be able to comprehend, read, write, and communicate in Basic English and interact with all levels of the organization.

Skills:
  • Read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Able to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
  • Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
  • Solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
  • Interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.

About McCain
At McCain, we're feeding the world: from French fries to cakes, we contribute to the important role food plays in people's lives. That's why we're dedicated to ensuring our core values-Family, Authentic, Trusted, and Quality-shine through every day. As a privately owned family company with over 60 years of experience, a presence in more than 160 countries, and a global team of 22,000 people, our values and culture are at the heart of everything we do. We believe that we can work together, along with our business and community partners, to bring sustainable growth and positive change today, tomorrow, and for generations to come. Join us and see how you can MAKE IT at McCain!
Leadership Principles.
Our principles, each with related practices, guide our actions across the organization. Together, they address how McCain interacts with our customers and employees, and how we work as individuals and collectively to find success. While each role adheres to the Leadership Principles, individual roles may focus more on a specific principle or principles.
We are customer-obsessed. Customers are our starting point. By understanding their needs and leveraging data and consumer insights, we drive mutual success.
We think big and plan ahead. Through ambition, curiosity, and smart risks, we can accomplish goals, refine processes, and innovate to scale success.
We bring out the best in our people. We create safe spaces for our people so that trust and empowerment come naturally. Inclusion is about listening first, showing humility, and working together.
We act like owners. Together, we clear obstacles and do the work that makes us all successful and proud to be part of McCain.
The McCain experience
We are McCain: this statement is about our power collectively and our importance individually-your impact is a significant part of the business. Our winning culture focuses on authenticity and trust so we can always bring out the best in our people. Here, you have the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive while being yourself. Join our team to see why we're better together.
Compensation Package : - Starting at . USD hourly + Bonus eligibility + Hourly Pay Differential for applicable shifts
The above reflects the target compensation range for the position at the time of posting. Hiring compensation will be determined based on experience, skill set, education and training, and other organizational needs. This posting is for an existing vacancy.
Benefits: At McCain, we're on a mission to create a winning culture that puts employee safety and well-being at the heart of what we do, every day. We understand and appreciate that each person's needs are unique and ensure our benefits & well-being programs reflect that. Employees are eligible for the following benefits: health coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription drug), retirement savings benefits, and leave support, including medical, family and bereavement. Well-being programs include vacation and holidays, company-supported volunteering time, and mental health resources. Coverages are aligned with applicable law and can vary by work level, location, and nature of the role. Additional benefits details available during the application process.
Your well-being matters to us, and we're here to provide you with the necessary resources to support you in being your best self at work - and at home.
McCain Foods is an equal opportunity employer. As a global family-owned company, we strive to be the employer of choice in the diverse communities around the world in which we live and work. We recognize that inclusion drives our creativity, resilience, and success and makes our business stronger. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
McCain is an accessible employer. If you require an accommodation throughout the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials or accessible meeting rooms), please let us know and we will work with you to find appropriate solutions.
Your privacy is important to us. By submitting personal data or information to us, you agree this will be handled in accordance with McCain's Global Privacy Policy and Global Employee Privacy Policy , as applicable. McCain leverages AI in the hiring process, though all final decisions are made by humans. You can understand our approach to AI and how your personal information is being handled here .
Job Family: Manufacturing
Location(s): US - United States of America : Nebraska : Grand Island
Company: McCain Foods USA, Inc.

What McCain Foods employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom