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Machine Operator Jobs in Ruston, LA (NOW HIRING)

Haynes International

Machinist/CNC Machinist

Arcadia, LA · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

... operating CNC lathes and cylindrical grinders. P: CNC operations HAAS, tool steel, heat treating of tool steel, Machine Tool Technology, CAD/CAM, Industrial Workplace safety. Experience: R: Must be ...

Haynes International

Machinist/CNC Machinist

Arcadia, LA

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

... operating CNC lathes and cylindrical grinders. P: CNC operations HAAS, tool steel, heat treating of tool steel, Machine Tool Technology, CAD/CAM, Industrial Workplace safety. Experience: R: Must be ...

Haynes International

Machinist/CNC Machinist

Arcadia, LA · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

... operating CNC lathes and cylindrical grinders. P: CNC operations HAAS, tool steel, heat treating of tool steel, Machine Tool Technology, CAD/CAM, Industrial Workplace safety. Experience: R: Must be ...

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Farmerville, LA · On-site

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Choudrant, LA · On-site

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Farmerville, LA · On-site

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Calhoun, LA · On-site

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Ruston, LA · On-site

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Choudrant, LA

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Downsville, LA · On-site

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Ruston, LA

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Bernice, LA · On-site

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Eros, LA

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Eros, LA · On-site

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Calhoun, LA · On-site

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Farmerville, LA

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Choudrant, LA · On-site

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

Drax

Pellet Mill Operator I

Ruston, LA · On-site

Morehouse, LA As a Pellet Mill Operator, you will be responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the pellet mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up ...

New

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Ruston, LA

Machine Operator information

See Ruston, LA salary details

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$14

$19

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Ruston, LA is $14.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $15.72 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 cities near Ruston, LA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Ruston, LA with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Ruston, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,535 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Machinist/CNC Machinist

Haynes International

Arcadia, LA • On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Haynes International rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Global Accountabilities for the Role:
  1. Safety: Responsible for self-safety as well as reporting any safety concerns.
  2. Quality: Responsible for the quality of work performed, completing all accountabilities professionally and accurately, and providing timely input to the direct manager.
  3. Productivity: Responsible for productivity and completing assignments in a timely manner.
  4. Costs: Responsible for helping to optimize cost utilization, efficiency and minimize scrap losses, proper machine operation and programming.

Specific Accountabilities for the Role:
  1. Tooling: Under the direction of the Tooling Engineer/Shop Supervisor, develop expertise in manufacturing tools for pilger machines.
  2. Physical: Able to life 50lbs, able to stand for long periods of time, able to reach and manual dexterity.
  3. Production: Produce mandrels safely and meet quality requirements, and cost efficiently. Maintain and update production records for tools. Work safely and efficiently. Understand procedures. Sharpening drills, straighten mandrels, operate job specific machines including horizontal handsaw, manual lathe, CNC lathes, 3 axis CNC vertical mill, CNC cylindrical grinder, manual cylindrical grinder, CNC thread grinding, mandrel gaging machine, automated polishing machine, polishing machine with a hand tool. Use CAD/CAM software. Selecting and setting up tools, fixtures, and machine settings.
  4. Maintenance: Perform basic maintenance on equipment to keep them in good working order and perform periodic cleaning, lubrication, sharpening, and adjustments. Keep the work area cleaned and orderly. Keep the tools and shop organized.
  5. Quality/EH&S: Give full support to the function, interactions of the managements systems subscribed to by the facility (i.e. AS9100, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, BSI 19001). Understand and follow Haynes' policies and procedures.
    Lean/SPC: Utilize monitoring techniques and controls to assure processes are centered and reliable by removing causes of defects and variability.

Role Qualifications:
Education: R: High school or GED. R: 2 years post high school training in CAD or machining or 3 years experience operating CNC lathes and cylindrical grinders. P: CNC operations HAAS, tool steel, heat treating of tool steel, Machine Tool Technology, CAD/CAM, Industrial Workplace safety.
Experience: R: Must be self-motivated to produce precision machined components. P: Reading engineering drawings, CNC lathe and cylindrical grinding, metal working, CAD/CAM programming, hand tool use, shop safety
Areas of Knowledge: R: Hand tools, power tools, precision measuring tools, competent using computers. P: Math (shop math, algebra, geometry, trigonometry), CNC, cylindrical grinding, lathe turning, measuring, reading engineering drawings, selecting and setting tools, planning and sequencing operations. Use of BobCad software.
Skills: R: Personal Organization and Time Management, measuring. Mechanically inclined, driven to learn new skills, attention to detail and problem solving. P: CNC setup and operation, precision measuring, sharpening drills, Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word & PowerPoint), reading engineering drawings, understanding geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, understanding surface finish.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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