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Machine Operator Jobs in Watertown, NY (NOW HIRING)

Monroe Tractor

Product Specialist

Adams Center, NY · On-site

Properly complete the service and or repairs necessary to keep customers machines operating. Make every effort to achieve the objectives set by management. Any other duties as outlined by service and ...

Monroe Tractor

Product Specialist

Adams Center, NY

$60K - $90K/yr

Properly complete the service and or repairs necessary to keep customers machines operating. * Make every effort to achieve the objectives set by management. * Any other duties as outlined by service ...

Monroe Tractor

Product Specialist

Adams Center, NY · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

... machines operating. • Make every effort to achieve the objectives set by management. • Any other duties as outlined by service and/or branch management. Qualifications • Knowledge of various ...

Samaritanhealth

COFFEE SHOP EMPLOYEE

Watertown, NY · On-site

$16 - $24.75/hr

Cash handling, operating cash register and credit/debit card machine as well as accurately record customer order information. * Ensure that food safety procedures are followed at all times. * Be able ...

Rouse Properties

Operations Manager

Watertown, NY · On-site

Plan, schedule, direct, coordinate and supervise the activities of the maintenance and operating ... large rotating machinery and hydroelectric generation equipment installation; * 5+ years of ...

Neenah, Inc.

Mill Utility

Brownville, NY · On-site

The Mill Utility position is responsible for performing entry level tasks associated with supporting manufacturing operations on the paper machine, and/or coater, and/or inspection winder. This will ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Watertown, NY

Machine Operator information

See Watertown, NY salary details

$12

$19

$24

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Watertown, NY is $19.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $20.53 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 Watertown, NY are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Watertown, NY with the most Machine Operator job openings:

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Watertown, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,914 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Bucket Operator - Union CDL Required - NTS

Nelson Tree Service, LLC

Lowville, NY • On-site

$30.67 - $34.67/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Bucket Operator (CDL Required) - Traveling Crew

Job Type: Full-Time +, Non-Exempt

Pay: Competitive, $30.67-$34.67 Per Hour; Based Upon Experience

Benefits:
  • Benefits Available and Vary per position and location
Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
  • Plans, assigns, directs, checks, and coordinates work.
  • Obtains written or oral permission from property owners to trim or remove trees or perform other work on the property. Arranges with customer or property owner to obtain access, advises of interruption, explains work to be done, etc.
  • Promotes and maintains good customer and public relations through the effective accomplishment of assigned work and the appropriate behavior of employees on the crew.
  • Cooperates with customers, police, and fire departments when blocking streets or driveways.
  • Safeguards employees and the public from hazards in and around the work area.
  • Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, markers, etc. to protect employees and the public.
  • Responsible for quality and quantity of production and for following safe practices and rules while clearing and trimming trees and brush away from utility lines.
  • Operates and services equipment, such as gasoline, hydraulic tools, power saws, power winches, buckets, chippers, and sprayers.
  • Operates a Bucket near energized lines to remove branches and tree material.
  • Performs tree and bucket rescue.
  • Uses hand tools, such as axes, hand-lines, saws, block and tackle, pruners, etc.
  • Cleans up and disposes of all debris.
  • Sprays brush and stumps, making proper and selective application of herbicides.
  • Trains new personnel.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be familiar with the electrical hazard.
  • Possesses working knowledge and can identify tree and shrub species.
  • Work demands physical energy, twisting, some lifting ability, and hand-to-eye coordination.
  • Must be willing to join local union and pay union dues.
Education & Experience
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Entry-level position, no experience required.
  • Previous experience is a plus.
Pre-Screen
  • Upon offer, employees may be required to subject and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background, and/or MVR check.
License & Certifications:
  • Valid commercial Driver's license (CDL) required.
Physical Requirements:
  • RARE (less than 10%): Sitting, Kneeling, Crawling, Color Vision, Climbing Stairs
  • OCCASIONAL (up to 33%): Stooping, Squatting, Climbing On/Off Truck, Climbing Ladders, Pushing, Reading, Lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • FREQUENT (up to 66%): Carrying, Pulling, Balancing, body-twisting, Hearing/Speech Range, Lifting, Lifting up to 10 lbs., Manual Dexterity, Speaking Clearly, Walking
  • CONTINUOUS (up to 100%): Standing, Sense of Touch, Gripping, Seeing, Reaching, range-of-motion, Depth Perception, Lifting over 10 lbs. to 50 lbs., Climbing
Safety

Due to the inherently dangerous nature of the industry and requirements to work with or around hazardous equipment, employees must have sufficient eyesight to judge distance/coordination of equipment and tools, be able to maintain attention and concentration for extended periods, be able to withstand exposure to all kinds of weather while completing work assignments, be able to wear personal protective equipment as necessary, be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times a day, have the endurance necessary to traverse various terrain, be capable of performing job duties throughout a standard 8- or 10-hour day, be able to communicate with others, read, write, and comprehend written/verbal job instructions and information, and communicate and handle conflict professionally.

  • Works in all temperatures and will be exposed to nature i.e., irritating plants and biting or stinging insects.
  • Works near energized parts or equipment.
  • Works in traffic.
  • Works around excessive noise from machines, jackhammers, gas drills, and other equipment with proper hearing protection.
  • Exposed to hazards of working near power equipment, traffic, high voltage wires, and falling limbs.
Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.

An Equal Opportunity Employer.

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