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Machine Operator Jobs in Wichita, KS (NOW HIRING)

PCCA

MACHINE OPERATOR I (LIFT TRUCK OPERATOR)

Clearwater, KS · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Machine Operator 1 Department: PCCA Warehouse Division Location: Clearwater, KS Reports To: Warehouse Supervisory Staff FLSA Status: Non-Exempt About PCCA PCCA is a marketing cooperative owned by ...

Webforge

Machine Operator (Evening Shift)

El Dorado, KS · On-site

$22.68/hr

M-Th) Starting Wage $22.68/hr + $1.50 shift differential The Machine Operator is an Individual Contributor responsible for the setup and operation of various pieces of equipment, including a ...

Smithfield Foods

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.35/hr

Machine Operator positions arephysically demanding and require good hand-eye coordination, and attention to detail.Machine Operatorsmust be able to work their scheduled shift and maybe requiredto ...

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Machine Operator information

See Wichita, KS salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Wichita, KS is $16.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $17.40 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 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, perform quality checks, and follow safety protocols, often using tools like control panels and gauges. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and sometimes certification or training in specific machinery.

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 shifts, often requiring knowledge of specific machinery and safety protocols.

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 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.

More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Wichita, KS? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Wichita, KS are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Wichita, KS? For Machine Operator jobs in Wichita, KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Wichita, KS look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Wichita, KS are:
What cities near Wichita, KS are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Wichita, KS with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Wichita, KS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 7% Contract, and 21% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,840 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

MACHINE OPERATOR I (LIFT TRUCK OPERATOR)

Plains Cotton Cooperative Association (PCCA)

Clearwater, KS

$16.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description


Title: Machine Operator 1
Department: PCCA Warehouse Division
Location: Clearwater, KS
Reports To: Warehouse Supervisory Staff
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 

About PCCA

PCCA is a marketing cooperative owned by farmers in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and New Mexico dedicated to supplying sustainably-grown, high-quality cotton fiber around the world. PCCA also owns cotton warehouse facilities in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. In addition to cotton marketing and warehousing services, PCCA provides innovative technology solutions to gins that help add more value to our grower-owners’ cotton.

Position Purpose 
The machine operator is responsible for unloading, loading, pulling orders, and moving and sorting cotton bales to and from storage locations using a lift truck. Additionally, the operator performs general plant maintenance and assists maintenance personnel with repairs to the fire protection systems as needed.

What You Will Do 

  • Operates and drives gasoline- liquefied gas- or electric-powered industrial truck equipped with lifting devices, such as forklift, comm, scoop, lift beam and swivel-hook, fork-grapple, clamps, elevating platform, or trailer hitch, to push, pull, lift, stack, tier, or move products, equipment, or materials in warehouse, storage yard, or factory.
  • Moves levers and presses pedals to drive truck and control movement of lifting apparatus.
  • Positions forks, lifting platform, or other lifting device under, over, or around loaded pallets, skids, boxes, products, or materials, or hooks tow truck to trailer hitch, and transports load to designated area.
  • Unloads and stacks material by raising and lowering lifting device.
  • May inventory materials on work floor and supply workers with materials as needed.
  • May weigh materials or products and record weight on tags, labels, or production schedules.
  • May load or unload materials onto or off of pallets, skids, or lifting device.
  • May lubricate truck, recharge batteries, fill fuel tank, or replace liquefied-gas tank.

The above job functions are an overview of duties and must be noted that additional duties may be required as deemed necessary by the Plant Manager.

Essential Skills and Background

  • High School diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Ability to effectively utilize cell phones, email, tablets, and computers.
  • Must possess a valid state driver’s license or have the ability to obtain one. All other certifications will be provided through PCCA-Warehouse as deemed necessary by management.
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to effectively present information, communicate and respond to questions from managers, supervisors, and co-workers.
  • To perform this job successfully. An individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily upon completion of all required training. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and or ability required.

Physical Requirements

  • Operators main duties will include, the operation of a propane or electric powered industrial lift truck equipped with lifting devices, such as forklift, comm, scoop, lift beam and swivel-hook, fork-grapple, clamps, elevating platform, or trailer hitch, to push, pull, lift, stack, tier, or move products, equipment, or materials in warehouse, storage yard, or factory. 
  • Operators must have full finger, hand, arm, foot, and leg dexterity and usage to properly and safely operate industrial lift trucks. 
  • Operators must be prepared to sit or stand for extended periods of time and be able to lift, carry, or move a minimum of 50 pounds. 

This description of an operator’s duties is an overview and may not include additional duties as required by the Plant Manager.  

Disclaimer

This job description reflects the general nature and scope of responsibilities for the Office Assistant role. Duties and responsibilities may change or be reassigned at any time to meet the evolving needs of the organization.

PCCA is an equal opportunity employer which operates under federal laws and state regulations requiring that there be no discrimination in its employment practices.  Discrimination against any person in recruitment, examination, selection, appointment, rate of pay, promotion and transfer, retention, daily working conditions, testing and training, awards, compensation and benefits, disciplinary measures, or any other aspect of employment because of age, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, disability, genetics, veteran’s status or other unlawful basis, is prohibited.

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