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Machine Operator Jobs in Lexington, KY (NOW HIRING)

TSG - The Sheridan Group

Machine Operator

Nicholasville, KY · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A great machine operator is reliable and able to work with attention to detail and safety standards. Being a team player is essential since all tasks will require close collaboration with co-workers.

Essity

Machine Operator

Harrodsburg, KY · On-site

$21.32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Machine Operator Who We Are Essity is a global leader in health and hygiene headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, with a North American headquarters located in Philadelphia, PA. We are a multi-billion ...

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Bore Machine Operator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Bore Machine Operator requires experience with directional drilling or locating equipment on a drill rig for longer than six months, operating excavating equipment, drilling various types of soil ...

Zekelman Industries

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Role As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in Richmond, KY you will be responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining extrusion and ...

Zekelman Industries

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Role As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in Richmond, KY you will be responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining extrusion and ...

Zekelman Industries

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Role As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in Richmond, KY you will be responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining extrusion and ...

Zekelman

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Role As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in Richmond, KY you will be responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining extrusion and ...

Zekelman

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Role As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in Richmond, KY you will be responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining extrusion and ...

Zekelman

Machine Operator

Richmond, KY

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About the Role As a PVC Extrusion Machine Operator at Zekelman Industries - Maverick Pipe in Richmond, KY you will be responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining extrusion and ...

Amcor

Machine Operator - Downstream

Nicholasville, KY

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Machine Operator I: Downstream Operator Salary Grade: Hourly Basic Function: Safely and effectively operate downstream equipment (including boxmakers, palletizers, robots and any other related ...

Amcor plc

Machine Operator - Downstream

Nicholasville, KY · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Machine Operator I: Downstream Operator Salary Grade: Hourly Basic Function: Safely and effectively operate downstream equipment (including boxmakers, palletizers, robots and any other related ...

Greif

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Mount Sterling, KY

$17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • PTO

Machine operators operate a blow molding machine in the most efficient manner to produce quality plastic parts while following environmental policies to ensure compliance to goals and objectives.

Greif, Inc.

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Mount Sterling, KY · On-site

$17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • PTO

Machine operators operate a blow molding machine in the most efficient manner to produce quality plastic parts while following environmental policies to ensure compliance to goals and objectives.

Greif

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Mount Sterling, KY

$17/hr

  • PTO

Machine operators operate a blow molding machine in the most efficient manner to produce quality plastic parts while following environmental policies to ensure compliance to goals and objectives.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Dish Machine Operator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$10.25 - $12.75/hr

  • Medical

  • PTO

As a Dish Machine Operator, you are a key part of our Back of House team-ensuring cleanliness, safety, and organization so the kitchen can operate at its highest level. Your work supports every plate ...

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Dish Machine Operator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$10.25 - $12.75/hr

  • Medical

  • PTO

As a Dish Machine Operator, you are a key part of our Back of House team-ensuring cleanliness, safety, and organization so the kitchen can operate at its highest level. Your work supports every plate ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Lexington, KY

Machine Operator information

See Lexington, KY salary details

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How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Lexington, KY is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.02 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.

More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Lexington, KY? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Lexington, KY are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Lexington, KY? For Machine Operator jobs in Lexington, KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Lexington, KY look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Lexington, KY are:
What cities near Lexington, KY are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Lexington, KY with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Lexington, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,049 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Machine Operator

TSG - The Sheridan Group

Nicholasville, KY • On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Sheridan.  Be part of something greater.  Your career awaits…join us!

 

As one of the leading print and publishing service providers in the nation, Sheridan prints everything from popular novels to prestigious education and trades books, and so much more. A career at Sheridan is so much more than just a job. We work hard, we have fun, and we are proud of what we do.    

We are looking for a skilled Machine Operator to set up, maintain and operate machinery. A great machine operator is reliable and able to work with attention to detail and safety standards. Being a team player is essential since all tasks will require close collaboration with co-workers. The goal will be to ensure that production procedures will be carried on smoothly to maximize efficiency and profits.

The main job duties for this position include, but are not limited to:

  • Read job ticket and print out instructions.
  • Sets up and operates machine which trims books on 3 sides.
  • Makes mechanical adjustments to machine to accommodate varying book sizes.
  • Ensures quality by continuously monitoring: Squareness of book, size of book, and edges are smooth with no knife marks.
  • Continuously controls product waste by monitoring: Downtime, and excessive bad trimmed product.
  • Ensures that your crew is made aware of quality standards.
  • Leads crew by exhibiting proper leadership and continually trains crew.
  • Ensures that each person in the crew is performing his job properly in a safe and efficient manner and can perform the duties of his peers and counterparts.
  • Maintains proper records including Downtime, and Job report.

Qualifications

  • The individual must be able to read a ruler in standard and metric.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Mechanical aptitude required
  • Previous Trimmer experience preferred but not required. Physical

Requirements:

  • The individual must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus
  • Use fingers to grasp
  • Able to stand for up to 12 hours on concrete floors

What’s in It for You? 

  • On-the-job training programs through Sheridan Academy. 
  • Career advancement with an employer who supports your development. 
  • Tuition reimbursement for approved coursework. 
  • A best-workplace culture that fosters life-long friendships and encourages fun. 
  • A successful and growing industry-leading company. 
  • An employee referral program that pays you money. 
  • A variety of shift and schedule options. 
  • Paid vacation & holidays. 
  • Competitive compensation. 
  • Medical (PPO and HSA Plans), Dental, Vision. 
  • Teladoc – convenient no- or low-cost medical services. 
  • Confidential and free EAP program for wellness and mental health. 
  • Company-paid basic life, AD&D, and short-term disability insurance. 
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match. 
  • A safe, values-based company that acts with integrity and respect for all. 

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Second shift
  • Overtime
  • Weekend availability

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

  • Machine Operators: 1 year (Preferred)

 Sheridan is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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