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Machine Operator Jobs in Waterville, ME (NOW HIRING)

FY Holdings Corp

Machine Operator I - FY

Etna, ME · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

The Machine Operator I in Carding will be trained to set up, run, and change over 4 Carding lines independently with a focus on quality, safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement. The Operator ...

The Shyft Group

CNC Operator 1

Waterville, ME

$20.50 - $28/hr

The CNC Operator position is responsible to utilize fabrication skills to such as cutoff saws ... Operates Fab Shop and Machine Shop machinery and equipment Reads job specifications to determine ...

The Shyft Group

CNC Operator 1

Waterville, ME · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

The CNC Operator position is responsible to utilize fabrication skills to such as cutoff saws, shears, rolls, brakes, presses, forming machines, spinning machines, and punch to cut, shape, and bend ...

The Shyft Group

CNC Operator 1- Night Shift

Waterville, ME · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

The CNC Operator position is responsible to utilize fabrication skills to such as cutoff saws, shears, rolls, brakes, presses, forming machines, spinning machines, and punch to cut, shape, and bend ...

Robbins Lumber, Inc.

Boiler Operator

Searsmont, ME · On-site

$25 - $36/hr

... written machinery rounds per 12-hour shift and report any anomalies that are found to the Plant ... · Understanding operating procedures and becoming proficient with operations in respect to ...

CRH

Equipment Operator - Paver - Construction

Sidney, ME · On-site

$28/hr

Equipment Operator - Paver - Construction AMAT Sidney, Maine, United States Job ID: 519294 Pike ... Operate Paving Machine * Operate various pieces of equipment * Clean-up Machine, dozer, excavator ...

Kennebec Lumber Co

Forklift Operator

Solon, ME · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

General Description The Forklift Operator shall work to ensure actions reflect the company culture ... Exception being - inside cab of outside machine forklifts * Report all near misses and unsafe acts

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Waterville, ME

Machine Operator information

See Waterville, ME salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Waterville, ME is $18.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $19.42 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 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 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.

More about Machine Operator jobs
What cities near Waterville, ME are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Waterville, ME with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Waterville, ME as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,756 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
General Labor/Machine Operator

General Labor/Machine Operator

Kennebec Lumber Co

Solon, ME • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

General Description:

The Machine Operator shall work to ensure all actions reflect the company culture work meets or exceeds company standards, and values and working environment reflects that as outlined by the Mill Manager. The Machine Operator will operate in a way that is efficient and productive while supporting the safety mission and standards as outlined at Kennebec Lumber Company.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate designated machine per SOP guidelines.
  • Operate lug loaders and position lumber to optimize machine efficiency.
  • Overseeing machine operation and flow of various lumber handling systems
  • Operating Automatic Lumber Stacker and fixing Tags onto finished packs of lumber
  • Strapping packs/bundles of lumber with a strapping device
  • Maintaining facility in a clean professional condition
  • Maintain good working relationships with all co-workers and management and follow up as needed on recommendations and /or citations.
  • Participate, Motivate, Support, and Implement on site safety practices and culture.
  • Other Duties as Assigned
Safety Requirements:

Safety First – Personal Protective Equipment

  • Steel or Safety Toe footwear is required in all areas.
  • Gloves required in designated areas – per task.
  • Hearing Protection required in all areas (Exception being inside the cab of outside machine forklifts).
  • Eye Protection required in all areas
  • Report all near misses and unsafe acts to immediate supervisor.
  • Pedestrian awareness at all times.
  • Florescent vests and hard hats are required for all outside activity (Exception, pedestrian travel from one building to another).
  • Never walk through any overhead door that is controlled remotely (Always use access door next to overhead).
  • Familiarize yourself with the various work areas. Learn how to operate the conveyor belts and the emergency stop buttons.
  • Familiarize yourself with the various possible pinch points that are in your area.
Physical Requirements:
  • Bend, stretch & twist multiple times daily.
  • Moderate to Heavy wrist / hand repetitions.
  • Stand for long periods of time.
  • Ability to work swiftly and accurately.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to push & pull up to 25 lbs.
  • Ability to climb and ascend and descend stairs frequently.
  • No allergies to sawdust, particles in the air (respiratory concerns).
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions (below 0 degrees temps to over 90-degree temps).