1

Machine Operator Jobs in Minneapolis, KS (NOW HIRING)

... operating the support equipment that keeps aviation operations moving. With experience, some ... Ability to work safely around aircraft, support equipment, and moving machinery in high noise and ...

Showing results 21-21

Machine Operator information

See Minneapolis, KS salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Minneapolis, KS is $17.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $18.46 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.

What cities near Minneapolis, KS are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Minneapolis, KS with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Minneapolis, KS as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,846 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Aviation Operations & Support

US Navy

Solomon, KS

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Title: Aviation Operations & Support (Enlisted)
Category / Component: Enlisted • Active
Overview
Aviation Boatswain’s Mates in Aviation Operations & Support help launch and recover naval aircraft quickly and safely from ships and shore stations, handling aircraft on flight decks and in hangar bays and operating the support equipment that keeps aviation operations moving. With experience, some personnel may earn advanced designations that involve leading and supervising multiple aviation boatswain’s mate specialties.
Key Responsibilities
Support aircraft launch and recovery operations in operational environments; assist with aircraft handling, movement, spotting, and securing of aircraft and equipment on flight decks and flight lines; operate aviation support equipment and systems used in aircraft operations; perform inspections and operational checks before and after equipment use; conduct preventive and corrective maintenance on assigned aviation support equipment; support safety practices including foreign object damage (FOD) prevention and emergency readiness; assist with emergency response and training drills related to aviation operations; support administrative and maintenance control activities as required.
What to Expect
Duties directly support aviation operations both on land and at sea; work includes a mix of operational support and hands on equipment and maintenance tasks; you gain increased responsibility over time as you qualify on equipment and watchstations, complete personnel qualification standards, and develop leadership skills through structured training and progression.
Work Environment
Work primarily in shipboard and shore station aviation environments, including flight decks, hangar bays, and flight lines; exposure to jet blast, rotor wash, noise, heat, weather, and moving equipment is routine; operations occur in a wide range of climates at sea and ashore and often follow the tempo of flight operations, including nights, weekends, and deployments.
Pathways, Training & Advancement
Recruit Training followed by rating specific training such as Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (H) A School as assigned; continued development through Personnel Qualification Standards and similar programs; refresher and advanced training such as non skid quality assurance, crash and salvage, and advanced shipboard firefighting as required; training is documented through systems such as the Joint Services Transcript, and professional growth is reinforced through Navy e learning, college network opportunities, and leadership development focused on technical skill, professional knowledge, and intellectual growth.
Enlist as an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate candidate to enter the aviation operations and support pipeline; Reserve opportunities may exist for Selected Reserve billets when authorized and may require specific Navy Enlisted Classifications or a willingness to attend required training upon SELRES accession.
Qualifications
All Navy jobs require meeting general enlistment or commissioning standards, which typically include:

  • Eligibility to serve in the United States Navy, which may involve United States citizenship or other legal residency and work status, depending on the program and current law and policy
  • A high school diploma or equivalent for enlisted positions, and a bachelor’s or qualifying professional degree for officer positions
  • Meeting age limits that vary by program and are set in law and Navy policy. Some communities have more restrictive age ranges
  • Meeting medical, vision, and dental standards, including body composition and physical fitness requirements, with some jobs requiring more demanding standards
  • Meeting character and conduct standards, including background screening
  • Achieving required test scores for your program, such as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery for enlisted roles or officer qualification tests for officer programs
  • Eligibility for a security clearance when required for your rating or designator
  • Additional qualifications can include specific skills, education, licensure, or experience that are unique to a job or community and will be reviewed with you by a recruiter.


Additional qualifications for this job may include:
Ability to work safely around aircraft, support equipment, and moving machinery in high noise and sometimes harsh weather environments; physical fitness and stamina to stand for long periods, lift and move equipment, and perform duties on flight decks and flight lines; willingness to work in a team in fast paced, safety critical situations and to follow detailed procedures and checklists.
Education
Education benefits are available through standard Navy programs such as Tuition Assistance, the Post-9/11 GI Bill, ACE-recommended college credit for Navy training, Navy COOL-funded certifications, USMAP apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the Sailor’s status, training, and current Navy policy.
Pay, Benefits & Service
Pay, benefits, and service commitments follow standard Navy Active and/or Reserve policies for this type of role, including basic pay, allowances when eligible, health coverage, and retirement options. Exact entitlements, special pays, and service obligations depend on program, component, years of service, and current law and Navy guidance.
Incentives
Incentives such as bonuses, special pays, and loan repayment may be available at times for specific ratings or communities, but they change frequently and cannot be guaranteed. Applicants must confirm current incentives and eligibility with an official Navy recruiter or authoritative Navy source.
Notes and Disclaimers
This description is a general overview of typical duties, training, and opportunities in this community. It does not replace official Navy instructions, policies, or contracts and does not guarantee specific assignments, training, incentives, or outcomes. Actual opportunities depend on Navy needs, individual performance, screening results, and current law and policy.


What United States Navy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


US Navy logo

About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Social media