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Machine Operator Jobs in Salem, OR (NOW HIRING)

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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 ...

ENTEK Manufacturing LLC

Waterjet Operator

Lebanon, OR

$21.10 - $32.10/hr

If you enjoy precision manufacturing, operating advanced CNC equipment, and producing high-quality ... Monitor machine performance and cut quality throughout production runs * Inspect finished parts ...

Original Roadhouse Grill

Dishwasher

Salem, OR · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

SUMMARY The Dish Machine Operator washes and stores all dishes, trays, eating and cooking utensils, cups and small equipment. The Dish Machine Operator maintains the dish room and dish machine in a ...

ENTEK

Waterjet Operator

Lebanon, OR · On-site

$21.10 - $32.10/hr

If you enjoy precision manufacturing, operating advanced CNC equipment, and producing high-quality ... Monitor machine performance and cut quality throughout production runs * Inspect finished parts ...

Field Fastener

Machine Tool Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

This role involves operating various metalworking machines, including threaders, band saws, chamfering tools, punch presses, bending machines, and welding equipment. This position requires experience ...

Field Fastener

Machine Tool Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

This role involves operating various metalworking machines, including threaders, band saws, chamfering tools, punch presses, bending machines, and welding equipment. This position requires experience ...

Original Roadhouse Grill

Dishwasher

Salem, OR · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

SUMMARY The Dish Machine Operator washes and stores all dishes, trays, eating and cooking utensils, cups and small equipment. The Dish Machine Operator maintains the dish room and dish machine in a ...

Orchid Orthopedic Solutions

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.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Salem, OR

Machine Operator information

See Salem, OR salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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 $500,000 a year in the US?

While most machine operator roles do not reach $500,000 annually, high-level positions in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or executive management can exceed this income level. Achieving such earnings typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, certifications, and often leadership responsibilities or ownership stakes.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $3,000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, high-level consultants, and skilled trades like offshore drilling or certain construction projects. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, certifications, or working in high-demand industries with long hours or high risk.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

The average salary for a machine operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled operators with certifications or experience working with specialized machinery may earn higher wages, and some positions offer shift differentials or overtime pay.

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 and certifications are required. These positions may offer higher salaries due to the technical expertise, safety requirements, and experience needed, with some earning over $70,000 annually depending on location and industry.

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 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 equipment for proper functioning, perform quality checks, and troubleshoot issues as needed, often following safety protocols and using tools like control panels or gauges.
More about Machine Operator jobs
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:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Salem, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,017 per year, or $18.3 per hour.
Machine Operator PT/FT - Day/Swing/Grave

Machine Operator PT/FT - Day/Swing/Grave

3D Plastics Inc

Newberg, OR • On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Join our production team!
We are searching for dedicated, detail oriented employees in our production and manufacturing floor.
Our current shifts are:
Day - Monday to Friday, 7am to 3:30pm
Swing - Monday - Thursday 3pm to 1:30am
Grave - Monday - Thursday, 9pm to 7:30am
We are 3D-Plastics and manufacture small plastic parts (usually no bigger than a cellphone) via injection molding.
We are hiring for the following positions:
- Machine Operator, $16.00-17.00/hour plus shift diff for FT after training (swing = $1.00, grave = $1.50)
- The ideal candidate will have manufacturing experience, but more we are willing to train if you have the
following:
- Dedication and pride in your work
- Detailed to ensure the highest quality goes to our customers
- Team attitude to help your co-workers and they help you
Benefits:
- 98% medical paid insurance for full time employees
- Dental, vision available for additional coast
- PTO
- 401k
Interested?? Hit apply and talk to you soon!

Apply