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Machine Operator Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

Boeing

Boring Machine Operator A - 70009

Auburn, WA · On-site

Boring Machine Operator A - 70009 Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Boring Machine Operator to join our Fabrication team in Auburn, WA

RR Donnelley

Folder Gluer Machine Operator

Kent, WA · On-site

$23.25 - $36.25/hr

Thorough knowledge of the set up, operating requirements, procedures, capabilities and limitations of one or more bindery machines to perform the full range of standard and specialized folding ...

RR Donnelley

Folder Gluer Machine Operator

Kent, WA · On-site

$23.25 - $36.25/hr

Thorough knowledge of the set up, operating requirements, procedures, capabilities and limitations of one or more bindery machines to perform the full range of standard and specialized folding ...

RR Donnelley

Folder Gluer Machine Operator

Kent, WA · On-site

Thorough knowledge of the set up, operating requirements, procedures, capabilities and limitations of one or more bindery machines to perform the full range of standard and specialized folding ...

Boeing

Boring Machine Operator A - 70009

Auburn, WA

As a Boring Machine Operator, you will be at the heart of transforming complex blueprints and technical plans into expertly crafted components, using your deep understanding of machining principles ...

Starbucks

machine operator I, 3rd shift

Kent, WA · On-site

$19.25 - $23.50/hr

Now Brewing - machine operator l! #tobeapartner From the beginning, Starbucks set out to be a different kind of company. One that not only celebrates coffee and its rich tradition, but that also ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Kent, WA

Machine Operator information

See Kent, WA salary details

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$26

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Kent, WA is $20.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $21.97 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 Kent, WA? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Kent, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Kent, WA? For Machine Operator jobs in Kent, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Kent, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Kent, WA are:
What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Kent, WA with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Kent, WA 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 $42,663 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Boring Machine Operator A - 70009

Boring Machine Operator A - 70009

Boeing

Auburn, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago

Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 602 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 527 rated manufacturers

Job description

Boring Machine Operator A - 70009
Company:
The Boeing Company
Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Boring Machine Operator to join our Fabrication team in Auburn, WA.
As a Boring Machine Operator, you will be at the heart of transforming complex blueprints and technical plans into expertly crafted components, using your deep understanding of machining principles and advanced CNC programming. This position calls for a hands-on problem solver who thrives on optimizing machine performance, fabricating custom tools and fixtures, and mastering the art of setup to ensure every part meets exacting standards. Your keen eye for detail and ability to sequence operations efficiently will drive productivity while maintaining the highest quality. From interpreting intricate designs to performing critical inspections and adjustments, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the parts that keep aviation moving forward.
You will play a critical role in upholding our commitment to safety and quality standards, ensuring that all operations meet regulatory compliance and operational excellence. If you are detail-oriented, possess strong technical skills, and thrive in a collaborative environment, we invite you to apply and be a part of our mission to deliver excellence in aviation.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Inspect machines for missing, loose, or damaged equipment; check oil and coolant levels; and initiate maintenance or repair tickets as needed to ensure safe and efficient operation.
  • Review work orders, blueprints, CATIA plots, setup documents, verbal orders, and handbook formulas; apply shop mathematics including trigonometry to identify the type of setup required and prepare for job setup or production runs.
  • Verify that correct materials, tools, fixtures, and accessories are issued, free from defects, and in good condition according to manufacturing plans.
  • Perform layout work and use precision measuring instruments, gauges, and tools to set up machines and check machined parts for finish and dimensional accuracy.
  • Select, secure, and fabricate tools, fixtures, machine attachments, and shop aids as necessary to accomplish assigned work efficiently.
  • Download and edit CNC programs, adjusting speeds and feeds within established guidelines for developmental work or make-to-order jobs.
  • Set machine coordinates, index points, and cutter offsets using controller keyboards, dial indicators, probes, shims, and edge finders to ensure precise machining.
  • Attach machine accessories, tools, fixtures, workpieces, and shop aids using appropriate tools and equipment, including overhead cranes.
  • Load and unload cutting tools per program specifications, ensuring cutters are the correct type, size, and in good condition; grind, detect faulty tools, and replace or maintain tools as needed.
  • Operate boring machines to rough out and finish parts, performing milling, reaming, drilling, tapping, and other machining operations to meet quality requirements.
  • Adjust machine settings such as speeds, feeds, and coolant flow to correct machining problems and prepare for subsequent operations.
  • Inspect work after each operation and upon job completion to ensure parts meet drawing specifications and are free of defects; perform deburring and any necessary bench work to finish parts.
  • Submit completed or in-process work to layout or inspection at appropriate stages and perform rework per engineering instructions when necessary.
  • Handle and dispose of hazardous materials safely in accordance with Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and use personal protective equipment as required.
  • Maintain personal and tool certifications, sequence own work operations effectively, maximize machine utilization to minimize setups and machining time, and ensure full utilization of machine capacities.

Physical Demands and Potential Hazards:
  • Perform physical tasks that include lifting weights ranging from 10-15 lbs. to 15-35 lbs.
  • Engage in various movements such as reaching, handling, turning, twisting, lifting, lowering, climbing, balancing, bending, kneeling, crouching, and squatting
  • Work in environments that may involve contact with metals, solvents, and coolants
  • Operate in proximity to moving parts and tools, sharp cutters, and potential slipping hazards
  • Adapt to varying noise levels and atmospheric conditions
  • Utilize personal safety gear to protect face/eyes, hands/arms, and feet while performing job duties

This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at one of the listed location options.
This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a "US Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 is required. "US Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
Resumes of current Puget Sound Boeing employees submitted via "Find Jobs" in Boeing/Workday will be considered as this job is not installed in QTTP (Quality Through Training Program).
Basic Qualifications:
Relevant experience can include academic qualifications, military service, or other industry-related roles.
  • 2+ years of machinist experience
  • 1+ year of experience setting up boring mills and/or jig bore machines
  • Experience utilizing and following detailed work instructions, reading and interpreting blueprints, drawings, or specifications
  • Experience working with precision measuring tools
  • Lifting, pushing and pulling up to 35 pounds

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with overhead cranes
  • Experience setting up tooling or sin plates

Typical Education & Experience:
High school graduate or GED preferred
Relocation:
  • Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position. Candidates must live in the immediate area or relocate at their own expense.

Drug Free Workplace:
Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Union Representation Statement:
This is an hourly position governed by the International Association of Machinists (IAM-751) Collective Bargaining agreement.
Shift Work Statement:
  • This role is primarily second shift; however, there may be additional shift requirements to support program objectives.

Total Rewards & Pay Transparency:
At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay: $33.32/hour, with potential to earn up to $61.01/hour in accordance with the terms of the relevant collective bargaining agreement.
Language Requirements:
English
Education:
Not Applicable
Relocation:
Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.
Export Control Requirement:
Safety Sensitive:
Security Clearance:
This position does not require a Security Clearance.
Visa Sponsorship:
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.
Contingent Upon Award Program
This position is not contingent upon program award
Shift:
Shift 4 (United States of America)
Stay safe from recruitment fraud! The only way to apply for a position at Boeing is via our Careers website. Learn how to protect yourself from recruitment fraud - Recruitment Fraud Warning
Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
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