ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Operator Jobs in New Castle, DE (NOW HIRING)

Mativ Holdings, Inc.

Machine Operator

Middletown, DE · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Machine Operator Location: Middletown, DE Description: The Middletown, DE location is seeking a Machine Operator to join its Filtration team. The Machine Operator is responsible for the efficient set ...

Mativ Holdings, Inc.

Machine Operator

Middletown, DE · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Machine Operator Location: Middletown, DE Description: The Middletown, DE location is seeking a Machine Operator to join its Filtration team. The Machine Operator is responsible for the efficient set ...

Mativ

Machine Operator

Middletown, DE · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Machine Operator Mativ is a global leader in specialty materials headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia. The Company offers a wide range of critical components and engineered solutions that connect ...

Mativ Holdings, Inc.

Machine Operator

Middletown, DE

$16 - $19/hr

Machine Operator Location: Middletown, DE Description: The Middletown, DE location is seeking a Machine Operator to join its Filtration team. The Machine Operator is responsible for the efficient set ...

New Hudson Facades LLC

Machine Operator

Marcus Hook, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for operating and maintaining machinery with precision and care, ensuring the highest quality output of our products. Your technical expertise and attention to ...

Owen Steel

Machine Operator

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Position Description The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining production machinery used in the fabrication and processing of steel components. This role ensures ...

3M

Machine Operator I

Newark, DE

$24.61/hr

Machine Operator I LOCATION: 3M Aearo Technologies Newark Delaware Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your ...

DwyerOmega

* Machine Operator - Wire / Respool

Swedesboro, NJ · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator I set up, configures, operates, cleans and performs routine operational maintenance on, Respool, wire insulation taping, glass insulation wrapping, braiding machines, NEB and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in New Castle, DE

Machine Operator information

See New Castle, DE salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in New Castle, DE is $17.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.85 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 New Castle, DE?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in New Castle, DE are:

What cities near New Castle, DE are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near New Castle, DE with the most Machine Operator job openings:

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in New Castle, DE as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,573 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Machine Operator

Mativ Holdings, Inc.

Middletown, DE • On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Mativ is a global leader in specialty materials headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia. The Company offers a wide range of critical components and engineered solutions that connect, protect, and purify our world. 

Position Title: Machine Operator

Location: Middletown, DE

Description: The Middletown, DE location is seeking a Machine Operator to join its Filtration team.

The Machine Operator is responsible for the efficient set-up and operation of extrusion lines in order to safely produce high-quality products in accordance with the standard operating procedure, production schedule, set-up instructions, and quality specifications

SHIFT: The schedule has rotating shifts: 1st 7a-3:30p, 2nd 3p-11:30p, 3rd 5p-3:30a.  Includes weekends as needed.

Responsibilities:

  • Safely conduct self and job tasks following proper work procedures.
  • Perform and document process line conditions.
  • Monitor and stock operating supplies as needed or directed; cores, pallets, boxes, etc.
  • Move rolls from Machine, utilizing pallet jack to staging locations
  • Collect scrap and waste from process to bale.
  • General housekeeping.
  • Keep work area and machinery clean, neat, organized, and free of any safety hazards.

Qualifications:

Required

  • 1 Year Machine Operating experience in a manufacturing environment  
  • Mechanical Aptitude  
  • Basic Math, Reading and Writing skills
  • Basic Computer skills
  • Ability to maintain regular, predictable, and punctual attendance
  • Ability to use a ruler or other measurement tools to ensure products meet customer expectations

Preferred

  • Ability to read and understand prints (part dimensions, fabrication, packaging)
  • Experience with precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers and dedicated check fixtures and other hand tools

 

Position Demands

Conditions are that of a manufacturing environment:

  • Air Temperatures can range from cold to hot.
  • Atmosphere may contain dust, fumes, and odors.
  • May include mechanical, electrical, chemical, explosive and radiation hazards.

Employees are required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including:

  • Safety shoes (steel toe or composite toe)
  • Safety Glasses
  • Protective Gloves, when performing certain tasks
  • Hearing Protection, when required
  • Other personal protective equipment as required for certain tasks.
  • Respirator, when required,

While performing the duties of this job the employee must meet the physical demands:

  • Be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
  • Be able to push or pull heavy objects up to 250 pounds.
  • Be able to work 12-hour shifts.
  • Perform repetitive tasks.
  • Routinely stand, sit, hear, walk, and talk.
  • Reach, climb, bend, kneel, crouch, twist, and balance, sometimes in awkward or tight spaces.
  • Have good close vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
  •  

WHAT WE OFFER

Mativ benefits say a lot about how we care for each other. Our employees and their families have many different needs. As a result, our benefits offer choices on many levels and are high in quality, competitive in the marketplace, and affordable.

ABOUT MATIV

Mativ Holdings, Inc. is a global leader in specialty materials headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia. The company connects, protects, and purifies the world every day through a wide range of critical components and engineered solutions that solve our customers’ most complex challenges. We manufacture on three continents and generate sales in nearly 100 countries through our family of business-to-business and consumer product brands. The company’s two segments, Filtration & Advanced Materials and Sustainable & Adhesive Solutions, target premium applications across diversified and growing end-markets, from filtration to healthcare to sustainable packaging and more. Our broad portfolio of technologies combines polymers, fibers, and resins to optimize the performance of our customers’ products across multiple stages of the value chain. Our leading positions are a testament to our best-in-class global manufacturing, supply chain, and materials science capabilities. We drive innovation and enhance performance, finding potential in the impossible.

Apply