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Machine Operator Jobs in Salem, OR (NOW HIRING)

Bakery Mixer - Machine Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Machine Operator 1 Location: Production Reports to: Line Technician or Production Supervisor FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Job Summary: Set-up, maintain, and operate basic food processing machines that ...

Wax Operator

Silverton, OR · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Robotic wax assembly, internal tool and design, finished machining, polishing, and sintered bead ... Ensures safety operating practices are demonstrated. Reports issues/concerns to Supervisor.

Operate asphalt paving machines and other related equipment in a safe and appropriate manner ... Must have 3 to 5 years experience operating CAT, Vogle and/or other asphalt paving machines

Mail Equipment Operator 2

Salem, OR · On-site

$3.5K - $4.7K/wk

Mail Equipment Operator 2 Mail Equipment Operator 2 Location: Salem, Oregon Schedule: Monday ... Operate high-speed inserting machines to prepare mailings. * Read scan marks to match documents ...

Mail Equipment Operator 2

Salem, OR · On-site

$3.5K - $4.7K/wk

Mail Equipment Operator 2 Mail Equipment Operator 2 Location: Salem, Oregon Schedule: Monday ... Operate high-speed inserting machines to prepare mailings. * Read scan marks to match documents ...

Machinist I (Press Bakes - Swing Shift)

Newberg, OR · On-site

$22.75 - $31.25/hr

Train Machine Operators I and II as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities * Must be able to read, write and communicate in English with demonstrated ability to follow written and ...

Machinist I (Press Bakes - Swing Shift)

Newberg, OR · On-site

$22.75 - $31.25/hr

Train Machine Operators I and II as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities * Must be able to read, write and communicate in English with demonstrated ability to follow written and ...

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Machine Operator information

See Salem, OR salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Salem, OR is $18.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $19.57 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Most jobs that pay $2,000 a day are high-level or specialized roles such as senior executives, certain medical specialists, or skilled contractors in industries like construction or oil and gas. These positions often require extensive experience, certifications, or advanced skills, and may involve long hours or high-risk environments.

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 the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator roles are often found in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where advanced skills, certifications, and experience command higher salaries. Supervisory or lead machine operator positions can also offer increased pay, especially with additional responsibilities and technical expertise.

What are machine operators?

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A machine operator typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized skills or experience. High-paying roles in manufacturing or industrial settings may reach that level for experienced operators, especially in high-demand industries or with overtime, but such salaries are uncommon without advanced training or certifications. Most jobs offering $10,000 monthly income generally require specialized skills, certifications, or managerial responsibilities.

What is the work of machine operator?

A machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining industrial machinery to produce goods or components. They monitor machine performance, ensure safety protocols are followed, and perform quality checks during production. Basic technical skills and understanding of safety standards are essential for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Salem, OR? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Salem, OR are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Salem, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Salem, OR are:
What cities near Salem, OR are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Salem, OR with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Salem, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,017 per year, or $18.3 per hour.
Machine Operator-Tualatin,Oregon

Machine Operator-Tualatin,Oregon

Illinois Tool Works Inc

Saint Paul, OR

$26/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Illinois Tool Works rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

174th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Description:
Position Summary:
Machine Operator performs the duties associated with high-quality, cutting and forming of stainless-steel kitchen ventilation parts and equipment using a press brake and laser machines. May perform simple or routine set-ups. Notifies if more complex tool or machine adjustments are required. Operates computer console as needed. Uses simple measurement instruments to check work. Employee will have frequent contact with Drafting, Layout, Programming, management and other shop floor personnel.
Hourly Pay Range: $24.00 - $26.00
Schedule: Monday - Thursday 5:00am - 3:30pm
Essential Responsibilities:
  • Set up, program, and adjust the Pressbrake; including daily operator maintenance.
  • Set up, program, and adjust the Laser; including daily operator maintenance.
  • Accurately produce error-free and scratch-free parts quickly and efficiently.
  • Provide quality parts within required tolerances.
  • Operate equipment according to all safety procedures.
  • Follow all Company safety policies as required for the position and area.
  • Inform maintenance of any mechanical malfunctions immediately.
  • Use knowledge and experience to answer questions regarding tolerances and QC of all parts produced within the area.
  • Actively participate in safety program.
  • Perform other duties as required.
  • Maintain work area to 5s standards
  • Cross train on various machines within the department.
  • Train others on all equipment within the department when necessary.

Experience:
  • Minimum of 6 months experience operating a 60 ton or larger Pressbrake
  • Minimum of 6 months experience operating Pressbrakes or Lasers
  • Sheet metal manufacturing experience; prefer stainless steel

Skills / Ability:
  • Proficiently operate all programs used to produce required parts.
  • Accurately produce scratch-free parts quickly and efficiently.
  • Basic math skills
  • Ability to work from shop drawings.
  • Recognize and identify all types of sheetmetal used within the plant.
  • Proficiently read a tape measure.
  • Follow all safety and housekeeping rules.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Must be team oriented.
  • Skills to read and write English, in order to work from blueprints and drawings.
  • Operate a forklift and understand its capacities. (Company certification required).

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge or experience with Cincinnati, Accupress or Bystronic Expert Series Pressbrakes
  • Knowledge or experience with Amada CO2 Lasers
  • Additional software knowledge is preferred.
  • NC Programming and Drafting software knowledge preferred Experience working in a production environment

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Physical ability to bend, stoop, reach and stand frequently.
  • Have sufficient strength to lift, push, pull, and shake sheets of metal from one surface to another frequently: for up to ten (10) hours per day.
  • Physical ability to occasionally lift up to 50lbs and frequently lift 10 to 30 pounds.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • Production Manufacturing Environment
  • No Travel Required

Compensation Information:
Hourly Pay Range: $24.00 - $26.00

What Illinois Tool Works employees say

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About Illinois Tool Works

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ITW is a global industrial company built around a differentiated and proprietary business model. The company’s seven industry-leading segments leverage the unique ITW Business Model to drive solid growth with best-in-class margins and returns in markets where highly innovative, customer-focused solutions are required. From state-of-the-art dishwashers, ovens and refrigerators in restaurants and hotels, to automobile components inside vehicles all over the world ... the products we manufacture and the solutions we design are all around us. The buildings where we live and work are built with ITW construction and welding products, and our ITW test & measurement solutions help to ensure the quality and safety of millions of products. ITW’s dedicated colleagues around the world thrive in the company’s decentralized and entrepreneurial culture. Our leaders have deep expertise in the ITW Business Model and leverage it to deliver superior performance and value to our customers.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Glenview, IL, US

Year founded

1912