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Machine Operator Jobs in Howell, MI (NOW HIRING)

Anonymous Employer

CNC Machine Operator

Plymouth, MI

$22 - $30/hr

Blue Chip Talent , in partnership with a defense manufacturing organization, is seeking a skilled CNC Lathe Machinist Level 2 . This role is responsible for operating CNC lathes to manufacture ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator/Assembly

Fenton, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

For those that live in or near Fowlerville, MI who want to keep growing, learning, and evolving. We at Kelly ® hear you, and we're here for you! We're seeking a Manufacturing Associate to work at a ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator/Assembly

Fenton, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

For those that live in or near Fowlerville, MI who want to keep growing, learning, and evolving. We at Kelly ® hear you, and we're here for you! We're seeking a Manufacturing Associate to work at a ...

fontana

Machine Setup Operator

Holly, MI

Provide assistance to machine operators on new job development * Ability to operate Tool Room equipment with limited supervision to meet necessary quality and productivity requirements. Horizontal ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Howell, MI

Machine Operator information

See Howell, MI salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Howell, MI is $17.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $18.22 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 cities near Howell, MI are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Howell, MI with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Howell, MI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,397 per year, or $17 per hour.

CNC Machine Operator

Anonymous Employer

Plymouth, MI

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Blue Chip Talent, in partnership with a defense manufacturing organization, is seeking a skilled CNC Lathe Machinist Level 2. This role is responsible for operating CNC lathes to manufacture precision metal components, editing and proving CNC programs, and maintaining quality and production standards in a high-volume manufacturing environment.

Job Duties
  • Operate CNC lathe machining centers to produce precision metal components
  • Edit CNC programs and adjust tool offsets, compensation, and machine settings as needed
  • Assist with machine setup, including installing chucks, tooling, collets, bushings, and related workholding devices
  • Verify first-run parts and perform in-process inspections using precision measuring equipment
  • Perform turning, facing, boring, grooving, threading, and knurling operations to specification
  • Troubleshoot machining issues and adjust programs or tooling to maintain quality standards
  • Complete production documentation, quality records, and shift communication logs
  • Perform routine machine maintenance while following established safety and quality procedures
Skills & ExperienceRequired
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Minimum of 3 years of CNC machining experience
  • Experience operating and setting up CNC lathes
  • Ability to edit CNC programs and adjust tool offsets and machine parameters
  • Proficiency reading blueprints and using precision measuring instruments
  • Knowledge of machining processes including turning, boring, threading, facing, and grooving
  • Ability to perform shop math, including basic geometry and trigonometry
  • Familiarity with quality management systems and manufacturing standards
Desired
  • Experience proving out new CNC programs
  • Knowledge of preventive maintenance for CNC equipment
  • Experience working within AS9100 quality standards
  • Familiarity with ISO 14001 environmental requirements
  • Experience in aerospace, defense, or other precision manufacturing environments
  • Experience troubleshooting machining processes to improve efficiency and quality

Blue Chip Talent is an award-winning and woman-owned talent solutions provider based in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. For over 30 years, we've specialized in IT, Engineering, and Professional Services staffing—now serving clients in 37 states and counting. We connect the market's elite talent with top employers, pairing exceptional white-glove service with proven hiring results to drive innovation and fuel growth.

We offer industry-leading benefits options and are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) that values merit-based recruitment centered around technical ability, skillset, and alignment with our employing partners.

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