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Machine Operator Jobs in Sterling, MA (NOW HIRING)

ARUNDEL MACHINE

Machine Operator

Athol, MA

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

* Machine Operator - Flexible work hours: First shift Monday through Friday 5:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM or optional Four-day 10-hour shift after you are fully trained. * What You'll Do:

Smiths Machine

Machine Operator

Athol, MA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

* Machine Operator - Flexible work hours: First shift Monday through Friday 5:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM or optional Four-day 10-hour shift after you are fully trained. * What You'll Do:

ARUNDEL MACHINE

Machine Operator

Athol, MA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

* Machine Operator - Flexible work hours: First shift Monday through Friday 5:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM or optional Four-day 10-hour shift after you are fully trained. * What You'll Do:

Milliken and Company

Machine Operator

Hudson, NH · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

POSITION TITLE / LOCATION Associate 3: Machine Operator - Hudson Plant JOB CLASSIFICATION Machine Operator POSITION REPORTS TO: Hudson Plant Supervisor POSITION OVERVIEW The Machine Operator is ...

Milliken and Company

Machine Operator

Hudson, NH · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

POSITION TITLE / LOCATION Associate 3: Machine Operator - Hudson Plant JOB CLASSIFICATION Machine Operator POSITION REPORTS TO: Hudson Plant Supervisor POSITION OVERVIEW The Machine Operator is ...

Milliken

Machine Operator

Hudson, NH

$19.28/hr

POSITION TITLE / LOCATION Associate 3: Machine Operator - Hudson Plant JOB CLASSIFICATION Machine Operator POSITION REPORTS TO: Hudson Plant Supervisor POSITION OVERVIEW The Machine Operator is ...

Balance Professional

Machine Operator

Merrimack, NH

$20 - $22/hr

Location: Merrimack, NH Pay: $20-$22/hr Machine Operator * Operate and monitor machinery to ensure efficient, accurate output. * Perform basic adjustments, quality checks, and routine equipment ...

Milliken

Machine Operator

Hudson, NH

$19.28/hr

POSITION TITLE / LOCATION Associate 3: Machine Operator - Hudson Plant JOB CLASSIFICATION Machine Operator POSITION REPORTS TO: Hudson Plant Supervisor POSITION OVERVIEW The Machine Operator is ...

Milliken

Machine Operator

Hudson, NH · On-site

$19.28/hr

POSITION TITLE / LOCATION Associate 3: Machine Operator - Hudson Plant JOB CLASSIFICATION Machine Operator POSITION REPORTS TO: Hudson Plant Supervisor POSITION OVERVIEW The Machine Operator is ...

Milliken & Company

Machine Operator

Hudson, NH · On-site

$19.28/hr

POSITION TITLE / LOCATION Associate 3: Machine Operator - Hudson Plant JOB CLASSIFICATION Machine Operator POSITION REPORTS TO: Hudson Plant Supervisor POSITION OVERVIEW The Machine Operator is ...

Seaman Paper

Machine Operator

Orange, MA

$18 - $25/hr

Machine Operator Location: Orange, MA Pay: $18.00-$25.00 per hour Schedule: Full-Time Keep Production Moving. Build Your Skills. Seaman Paper is a global manufacturer of sustainable specialty paper ...

Milliken & Company

Machine Operator

Hudson, NH · On-site

$19.28/hr

POSITION TITLE / LOCATION Associate 3: Machine Operator - Hudson Plant JOB CLASSIFICATION Machine Operator POSITION REPORTS TO: Hudson Plant Supervisor POSITION OVERVIEW The Machine Operator is ...

AIS

Machine Operator

Leominster, MA

$17 - $22/hr

Machine Operator (1st Shift) DEPARTMENT: Panel Blank JOB TYPE: CNC - Machine Operator (Saws and DET) REPORTS TO: Alexis Alonso POSTING START DATE: 03/24/2026 HOURS: Monday - Friday. Minimum of 40 ...

Adecco

Machine Operator

Greenville, NH

$18 - $22/hr

Machine Operator Shift: Monday - Thursday | 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour (based on experience) Why Work Here? * Enjoy a 3-day weekend every week * Full-time, stable employment

Adecco

Machine Operator

Greenville, NH

$18 - $22/hr

Machine Operator Shift: Monday - Thursday | 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour (based on experience) Why Work Here? * Enjoy a 3-day weekend every week * Full-time, stable employment

ARCH Global Precision

Machine Operator

Athol, MA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

* Machine Operator - Flexible work hours: First shift Monday through Friday 5:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM or optional Four-day 10-hour shift after you are fully trained. * What You'll Do:

Cirtronics Corporation

Machine Operator

Milford, NH · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

We're actively hiring for a full-time Machine Operator, with the opportunity to start in as little as 1-2 weeks.If you enjoy working with technology, running automated equipment, and being part of a ...

Stem Xpert

Machine operator

Nashua, NH

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Forklift experienced and Machine operator experienced Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Sterling, MA

Machine Operator information

See Sterling, MA salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Sterling, MA is $18.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $20.29 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 cities near Sterling, MA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Sterling, MA with the most Machine Operator job openings:

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Sterling, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,437 per year, or $19 per hour.

Machine Operator

ARUNDEL MACHINE

Athol, MA

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

  • Machine Operator - Flexible work hours: First shift Monday through Friday 5:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM or optional Four-day 10-hour shift after you are fully trained.
  • What You'll Do:
    • Program & Operate: Develop, run, and optimize multi-axis CNC programs for intricate parts.
    • Equipment list includes opportunities on a wide range of machines
    • manual mills, lathes, grinders and support equipment
    • 3 and 4 axis CNC Mills (HAAS, Prototrak)
    • CNC lathes (Mazak, Citizen Miyano, Mori Seiki)
    • High Precision 5 axis CNC Walter Grinders
    • Set-Up Pro: Expertly set up machines, select tooling, and calibrate for peak performance.
    • Quality Guardian: Inspect parts, ensuring they meet strict blueprints and specifications using precision tools.
    • Troubleshooter: Diagnose and resolve machine issues, keeping production smooth.
    • Innovate: Collaborate to improve processes and maintain a clean, safe workspace.
  • Who You Are:
    • A meticulous problem-solver with an eye for detail.
    • Self-motivated, a team player, and ready to learn.

Get to know us:
ARCH Cutting Tools - Athol can promise you an environment that encourages your best and rewards it. We are a manufacturer of metal cutting tools with over 30 years of experience.
What can we offer you for all your hard work?
Medical, dental and vision coverage starting day one.
401k
Paid time off programs
Opportunity for quarterly bonuses
A Great Place to Work!

Apply