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Machine Operator Jobs in Kalamazoo, MI (NOW HIRING)

jbpco

Machine Operator - 2nd & 3rd Shift

Sturgis, MI

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Machine Operator Operates basic machine shop equipment such as brake presses, shears, saws, grinders, and drill presses to produce production and non-production (repair) parts to required tolerances.

Hastings Piston Rings

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Hastings, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Follows SPC chart measurements requirements while operating the machinery in order to produce product that meets with strict design and quality standards. * Follows work instructions to determine ...

Hastings Piston Rings

Machine Operator 3rd shift

Hastings, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Follows SPC chart measurements requirements while operating the machinery in order to produce product that meets with strict design and quality standards. * Follows work instructions to determine ...

pca

MACHINE OPERATOR~3RD SHIFT

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$26.70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... machines. Ability to work in a fast paced environment and handle impromptu schedule changes to meet customer expectations. Pay and Benefit: Hourly pay rate for an Associate Level 1 Operator is $26.70.

Horizon Steel

Be Seen First

Machine Operator- Steel Slitting

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary · Fully participate in and support the HorizonSteel Quality System · Comply with safety requirements in area, specifically hard hat and safety glasses · Identify different grades of ...

Novolex

Operator Associate I

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$22.16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Operate and adjust machines within process limitations as directed that will produce various plastic parts, maintaining optimum machine operating efficiency and uptime * Identify and troubleshoot ...

Novolex

Operator Associate I

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$22.16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Operate and adjust machines within process limitations as directed that will produce various plastic parts, maintaining optimum machine operating efficiency and uptime * Identify and troubleshoot ...

Colonial Engineering, Inc.

Be Seen First

Machine Operator 1st, 2nd, or 3rd Shift - Full Time with Benefits

Portage, MI · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Looking for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Shift employees immediately Come join our team, operating a press (Injection Molding Machine). Colonial has been in business for 46 years. We make parts for customers in ...

Urgent

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Kalamazoo, MI

Machine Operator information

See Kalamazoo, MI salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Kalamazoo, MI is $17.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.37 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.
More about Machine Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Kalamazoo, MI?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Kalamazoo, MI are:

What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Kalamazoo, MI?

For Machine Operator jobs in Kalamazoo, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Kalamazoo, MI are:

What cities near Kalamazoo, MI are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Kalamazoo, MI with the most Machine Operator job openings:

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Kalamazoo, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,686 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Machine Operator - 2nd & 3rd Shift

jbpco

Sturgis, MI

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

MORGAN OLSON LLC

Morgan Olson is the leading walk-in van body manufacturer in North America producing over 7,500 vehicles annually. Morgan Olson’s portfolio of customers serves a multitude of industries and delivery applications. The primary industry served by these iconic Morgan Olson Walk-in vans is parcel package pick up & delivery because most everything ordered on-line is delivered by a Morgan Olson Walk-In Stepvan. Other key industries served include Textile Rental and Laundry services, baking and snack foods, newspaper delivery, service & utility vehicles, and the ever-growing mobile cuisine food trucks!

Morgan Olson’s leadership stands committed and focused. Reinvesting tens of millions of dollars back into Morgan Olson’s production facilities with state-of-the-art equipment and advanced automation technologies, producing the safest and most efficient "last mile" home delivery work trucks on the market today.

 

Job Title: Machine Operator

 

Job Description:

Operates basic machine shop equipment such as brake presses, shears, saws, grinders, and drill presses to produce production and non-production (repair) parts to required tolerances.

Essential Functions and Activities:

  • Ensures that all safety devices are in place and operational.
  • Verifies that materials required by the work order are available and correct.
  • Performs first piece inspection to verify compliance with blueprint specifications and performs intermediate inspection of parts to assure that material stays within tolerances specified for the run.
  • Completes all operations specified on work order within the time standards listed.
  • Maintains cleanliness and orderliness of work area.
  • Supports and participates in Morgan Olson’s PPS team efforts.
  • Adheres to Quality policy by exceeding customer expectations, being customer-focused and supporting continuous improvement activities.
  • Adheres to Safety policies and practices behavioral based safety 100% of the time.
  • Other duties as required.

Physical Requirements/Hazards:

  • Job requires extensive standing, lifting, reaching, twisting, and turning to fabricate parts. Lifting will involve material weighing anywhere from several pounds to 50 pounds.
  • PPE: Steel toed safety shoes, Safety glasses with side shields and hearing protection is always required. Other PPE such as gloves, safety goggles, respirators, etc. may be required depending upon the task at hand.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma (required)
  • Manufacturing or industrial work experience (preferred)
  • One year of experience in an assembly process that utilized hand riveters and drills or equivalent (preferred)
  • Ability to read a tape measure and perform simple math calculations (required)
  • Ability to read, bills of material and work instructions: and understand blueprints (required)

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k)
  • Company paid life insurance
  • 10 company paid holidays
  • Vacation and personal time

Equal Opportunity Employer

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