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Machine Operator Jobs in Lafayette, LA (NOW HIRING)

Crest Industries

Machine Operator I (Weekends)

Eunice, LA

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

The Machine Operator must be capable of operating machines in a steel plant. This individual must possess the ability to read a tape measure; must possess basic math aptitude. The Machine Operator ...

New

BCforward

CNC MACHINE OPERATOR

Broussard, LA

$19.49/hr

CNC MACHINE OPERATOR 2nd shift - 3:15pm - 11:45pm BROUSSARD, LA, USA, 70518 03/13/2017 to 03/09/2018 $19.49/HR ON w2 The CNC Machine Operator II supports manufacturing and engineering by producing ...

idexcel

CNC MACHINE OPERATOR

Broussard, LA

$19.49/hr

CNC MACHINE OPERATOR 2nd shift - 3:15pm - 11:45pm BROUSSARD, LA, USA, 70518 03/13/2017 to 03/09/2018 $19.49/HR ON w2 The CNC Machine Operator II supports manufacturing and engineering by producing ...

Ventura Foods

Process Operator

Opelousas, LA · On-site

$17.61 - $26.55/hr

Maintains operation of crystallizing and/or filling and packaging machinery to produce a quality ... operating procedures for vegetable oil refinery processes that consists of bleaching, bulk load ...

Ventura Foods

Process Operator

Opelousas, LA · On-site

$17.61 - $26.55/hr

Maintains operation of crystallizing and/or filling and packaging machinery to produce a quality ... operating procedures for vegetable oil refinery processes that consists of bleaching, bulk load ...

The Theodoros Group

CNC Machinist Operator

Broussard, LA · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Day Shift Position Summary The CNC Lathe Machinist I is responsible for setting up and operating ... Make minor machine adjustments and tool offset changes to maintain part quality. Escalate ...

Crest Industries

CNC Machinist

Eunice, LA · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

REQUIREMENTS FOR MACHINE OPERATOR * High School Diploma or equivalent preferred. * Ability to read and interpret typed reports and schedules required. * Ability to interpret blueprints required.

Crest Industries

CNC Machinist

Eunice, LA

$21 - $28/hr

REQUIREMENTS FOR MACHINE OPERATOR * High School Diploma or equivalent preferred. * Ability to read and interpret typed reports and schedules required. * Ability to interpret blueprints required.

Crest Industries

CNC Machinist

Eunice, LA · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

REQUIREMENTS FOR MACHINE OPERATOR * High School Diploma or equivalent preferred. * Ability to read and interpret typed reports and schedules required. * Ability to interpret blueprints required.

Noble Plastics

Production Operator

Grand Coteau, LA

$15 - $18/hr

Shift work to operate injection molding machines (IMM) and other mechanical units producing products for a variety of industries. Responsibilities include operating injection molding machines ...

Noble Plastics

Production Operator

Grand Coteau, LA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Shift work to operate injection molding machines (IMM) and other mechanical units producing products for a variety of industries. Responsibilities include operating injection molding machines ...

Stuller

Die Striking Operator

Lafayette, LA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

The position of Die Striking Operator is responsible for processing components and end item jewelry ... Processing of die struck items with tooling and machinery from the various categories of offerings ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Lafayette, LA

Machine Operator information

See Lafayette, LA salary details

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How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Lafayette, LA is $14.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $15.05 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

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

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The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Lafayette, LA are:

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

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Lafayette, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $29,194 per year, or $14 per hour.

Machine Operator I (Weekends)

Crest Industries

Eunice, LA

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Come join our team at DIS-TRAN Steel!

Our people – not our machinery - are our biggest assets. DIS-TRAN Steel’s leadership team lives by our company values, modeling our culture of respect and integrity each day. We're a team that likes to have fun, but we also know how to get stuff done.

DIS-TRAN Steel, located in Eunice, LA, is looking for experienced Machine Operators to join our team on Weekends.   The Machine Operator must be capable of operating machines in a steel plant.  This individual must possess the ability to read a tape measure; must possess basic math aptitude.  The Machine Operator will safely operate CNC machinery (drill, saw, etc.).  This individual will perform daily preventative maintenance on machines.
 
COMPETENCIES
  • Customer Focus
  • Decision Quality
  • Business Insight
  • Drives Results
  • Collaborates
  • Communicates Effectively
  • Courage
  • Instills Trust
  • Manages Ambiguity
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operates CNC machines.
  • Measures dimensions of finished steel structures to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments, templates, and fixtures.
  • Mounts, installs, aligns, and secures tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
  • Listens to machines during operation to detect sounds such as those made by dull cutting tools or excessive vibration and adjust machines to compensate for problems.
  • Adjusts machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls.
  • Stops machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement, according to required machining sequences.
  • Lifts workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes.
  • Modifies cutting programs to account for problems encountered during operation and saves modified programs.
  • Inserts control instructions into machine control units to start operation.
REQUIREMENTS FOR MACHINE OPERATOR
  •  High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.      
  •  Ability to read and interpret typed reports and schedules required.
  •  Ability to interpret blueprints required.
  •  Ability to read a tape measure required.
  •  Certifications or prior experience using moving machinery, such as cranes, preferred.
  •  Basic math aptitude required.
  •  Must complete on-site training and demonstrate safe operation of machinery.
Referral Level: Entry Level
Not eligible for Enhanced Referral
Not eligible for External Referral
 
More information regarding The Crest Industries Family of Companies’ Internal and External Referral Programs can be found here: https://www.crestoperations.com/recruit-new

As strategists, operational experts, customer advocates and team players, we all believe in the power of our people. Explore how you can become a part of our team of strength and commitment that's built to last!

DIS-TRAN Steel 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.

DIS-TRAN Steel 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.