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Machine Operator Jobs in Princeton, MN (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator -2nd Shift

Sauk Rapids, MN · On-site

$17.12 - $29.09/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Ichor Systems has an immediate opening for a Machine Operator, located in Sauk Rapids, MN. Reporting to the Manufacturing Supervisor, the Machine Operator will start and observe machine operations to ...

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Sauk Rapids, MN · On-site

$17.12 - $29.09/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Ichor Systems has an immediate opening for a Machine Operator, located in Sauk Rapids, MN. Reporting to the Manufacturing Supervisor, the Machine Operator will start and observe machine operations to ...

Machine Operator - Imaging Lines

Ramsey, MN · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Imaging Line Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining production equipment used in the manufacturing of plastic cards. This role ensures that all machinery runs efficiently ...

Machine Operator - Imaging Lines

Ramsey, MN · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Imaging Line Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining production equipment used in the manufacturing of plastic cards. This role ensures that all machinery runs efficiently ...

Showing results 41-60

Machine Operator information

See Princeton, MN salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Princeton, MN is $17.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $18.51 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.

What cities near Princeton, MN are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Princeton, MN with the most Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Princeton, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,917 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Machine Operator -2nd Shift

Ichor Systems

Sauk Rapids, MN • On-site

$17.12 - $29.09/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Ichor Systems rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Ichor Systems has an immediate opening for a Machine Operator, located in Sauk Rapids, MN. Reporting to the Manufacturing Supervisor, the Machine Operator will start and observe machine operations to detect malfunctions or out-of-tolerance machining and adjust machine controls or control media as required.


Responsibilities:

  • Starts and observes machine operation to detect malfunctions or out-of-tolerance machining and adjusts machine controls or control media as required.
  • Understands blueprints, drawings, specifications, or sample part to determine dimensions and tolerances of finished workpiece, sequence of operations.
  • Selects, aligns, and secures holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials on machines such as mills, lathes and similar CNC machine tools.
  • Refer to the tooling list and install correct tooling. Be able to enter and verify tool offsets.
  • Verifies conformance of finished workpiece to specifications using various measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and depth micrometers. Familiarity with elementary CMM, GD&T, and SPC.
  • Communicate process issues to supervisor for investigation
  • Complete the necessary paperwork and computer entry steps.

Qualifications

  • Ability to operate vertical/horizontal mill, lathe or Swiss machinery.
  • Troubleshooting abilities
  • Ability to perform non-complex adjustments and changes to machinery
  • Must have 1+ years of experience
  • 2-year machining degree preferred
  • Metalworking experience preferred
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
     

For candidates based in Minnesota:   The pay range for this position is $17.12 - $29.09 per hour.

Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional job-related factors, including knowledge, skills, experience, tenure, and relevant education or training. The pay scale is subject to change depending on business needs. Your recruiter can share more about the specific range for your location during the hiring process.

Ichor is committed to supporting your personal well-being and professional development. Our benefits are designed to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, provide peace of mind, and prepare for your future. We offer medical, dental, and vision plans across all locations, allowing team members to select the coverage that best meets their healthcare needs and budget. Our benefits also include a paid time-off program and paid holidays to support your time away from work. A summary of our Benefits will be provided during the interview process.  

ITAR ONLY 
The business site where this position is located is an ITAR-compliant operation. Due to ITAR regulations, Ichor Systems is only able to employ US Persons. A US person is a lawful permanent resident (immigrant with "green card" permanent authorization to work document) or who is a protected person (a citizen, a national, a refugee, or a person granted asylum). Non-citizens with other visas are not eligible for hire at this location.

Ichor is an experienced leader in the critical subsystems and turnkey process equipment marketplace.  Our capabilities enable the design and creation of a complete outsourced solution ranging from product concept to turnkey manufacturing to legacy service.

Ichor offers world-class process engineering, value added manufacturing, materials management and testing capabilities. Our 1500+ employees are strategically located to provide our customers with the highest level of customer service and support from our program management, sales, engineering, and executive management teams.

Our continued expansion of capabilities in South East Asia better aligns our production facilities with our customers' supply chain strategies. This further enables our expansion into new products and markets.

Ichor is headquartered in Fremont, California with manufacturing locations in Oregon, Texas, Singapore, Malaysia and the UK.  Our sales and engineering office is strategically located in Silicon Valley, California.
Precision machining is Ichor Precision Machining's heritage and core strength. IPM's skilled and dedicated employees deliver the most complex, extreme tolerance, and superior surface finish components at unsurpassed quality levels. Joining the team at IPM means working with dedicated, highly skilled employees that drive continuous improvement and ensure we deliver superior results to our customers. IPM is excited to share that we are now a part of the Ichor Systems family of companies. Ichor is headquartered in Fremont, California with manufacturing locations in Minnesota, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Mexico, Singapore, Malaysia and the UK. Our sales and engineering office is strategically located in Silicon Valley, California.

Ichor Precision Machining (IPM) is an ITAR-compliant operation. Due to ITAR regulations, Ichor Systems is only able to employ US Persons. A US person is a lawful permanent resident (immigrant with "green card" permanent authorization to work document) or who is a protected individual (a citizen, a national, a refugee, or a person granted asylum). Individuals with temporary visas are not eligible for hire.

Ichor Systems provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, Ichor Systems will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

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