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Machine Operators Jobs in Buffalo, MN (NOW HIRING)

Quanex

Machine Operator II - 3rd Shift

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$22.80 - $26.40/hr

Quanex is looking for a Machine Operator II - 3rd Shift to join our team located in St. Cloud, Minnesota. In this role, you will set-up, operate, and verify quality of work which will consistently ...

Integer

Machine Operator

Brooklyn Park, MN

$27 - $32.58/hr

A minimum of 2 years related work experience operating machinery in a regulated manufacturing environment; medical device experience preferred. Knowledge & Skills: Special Skills : Working knowledge ...

Triangle

Laser Machine Operator

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Laser Machine Operator Company: Triangle Dies & Supplies (DFC Manufacturing Group) Location: Brooklyn Park, MN Job Type: Full-time | Hourly (Non-exempt) About Triangle Dies & Supplies Triangle Dies ...

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Machine Operators information

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$12

$19

$24

How much do machine operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operators in Buffalo, MN is $19.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $20.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, with some employers preferring vocational training or experience. Familiarity with CNC machines, production line equipment, and basic computer systems is commonly required, and OSHA safety certifications can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and the ability to work well in a team environment help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining safety, ensuring product quality, and achieving efficient production in manufacturing settings.

What are machine operators?

Machine operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, monitor, and maintain machinery in factories or production environments. They ensure machines are working efficiently and safely, make minor adjustments, and troubleshoot issues as they arise. Machine operators often follow specific instructions and safety protocols to produce quality products. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the type of machine and the industry in which they work.

What is the difference between Machine Operators vs Equipment Technicians?

AspectMachine OperatorsEquipment Technicians
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications vary by industryTechnical certifications or vocational training often required
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, production linesMaintenance workshops, industrial facilities
Job FocusOperating machinery to produce goodsMaintaining, repairing, troubleshooting equipment
Employer UsageManufacturing companies, factoriesIndustrial service providers, manufacturing plants

While Machine Operators focus on operating machinery to ensure smooth production, Equipment Technicians specialize in maintaining and repairing that equipment. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, but they require different skill sets and certifications. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and career goals.

What are some typical challenges Machine Operators face during their daily work, and how can they overcome them?

Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and managing time pressures to meet production targets. Staying attentive to machine sounds and performance can help detect issues early, while following standard operating procedures reduces errors. Collaborating closely with maintenance teams and supervisors ensures quick resolution of technical problems and keeps production running smoothly. Ongoing training and a proactive attitude also help operators adapt to new technologies and processes.
Machine Operators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operators job openings in Buffalo, MN as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,824 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
3rd Shift Machine Helper

3rd Shift Machine Helper

Liberty Diversified International, Inc.

Minneapolis, MN

$20.43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description

As a Machine Helper / Stacker Operator with Liberty Packaging, you will contribute to the growth of our business by being a key player in safely producing quality corrugated products for our customers.  You will work within a small group; in this role, you will support machine operators to maximize machine efficiency by assisting with setting up orders correctly, performing quality checks, stacking orders, and communicating issues.
 
This full-time position reports directly to a Production Supervisor and is located at our Brooklyn Park, MN manufacturing facility.
 
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 
  • Support machine operation by assisting with the setup of orders according to customer specifications, following order readiness process of efficiently preparing the right tools to complete the job. 
  • Assist machine operators during quality checks by inspecting a first article, and articles throughout the order to identify issues, ensuring quality product, along with monitoring equipment and raw materials. 
  • Support the operator in monitoring production metrics to accurately track progress of production rates, quality, maintenance needs, and downtime.
  • Proactively communicate issues with equipment to appropriate leaders, and assist with trouble shooting, and problem solving to maximize overall equipment efficiency and minimize downtime.
  • Intermittently assist with minor repairs to equipment in partnership with maintenance team. 
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area by following post order cleaning process.
  • Follow plant safety processes and procedures outlined for the machine center. 
  • Other duties, as assigned
 
REQUIRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS 
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent from an accredited institution or 1+ years manufacturing or comparable experience in place of education.
  • Previous experience applying math skills such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. 
  • Previous experience reading, following, and/or completing detailed work instructions.
  • Must be available to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as required.
 
PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS 
  • Experience reading a tape measure to within 1/16” measurement.
  • Experience with computer skills such as typing, printing, and data entry.
  • Experience within the corrugated industry.
  • Experience with operational excellence or continuous improvement programs – Lean 6 Sigma, Kaizen Events.
 
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS 
The starting pay rate for this position is $20.43 per hour plus hourly shift differential pay. 
 
At LDI, we are pleased to provide employees with a comprehensive benefits package including health/dental/vision insurance options; paid vacation; paid holidays; 401(k) plus company matching; flexible spending and health savings account options;  life and disability insurance;  tuition assistance; wellness and mental health resources, and financial advising services.
 
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 
  • Must be able to lift up-to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to work in hot, humid, and cold manufacturing environment
  • Must be able to work in crowded spaces for 4+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to bend and stoop for 7+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to stand for 6+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to walk for 6+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to reach and grasp up to 6+ hours per shift
 
ABOUT OUR COMPANY 
Comprised of multiple companies with headquarters in New Hope, Minnesota, Liberty Diversified International (LDI) is a privately held company employing more than 1,900 individuals across our manufacturing facilities, production facilities and core business operations in Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, Mississippi, Texas, Arizona, Virginia, California, and Mexico. With deep roots in the corrugated box manufacturing industry, we operate in the core markets of paper, packaging, workplace products, corrugated plastics and building products. 
Since 1918, our values – Caring, Innovation, Trust and Excellence – have guided our day-to-day activities. We believe that when our employees are aligned with these values, we create superior service and solutions for our customers. The LDI family of companies includes Liberty Packaging, Liberty Paper, Liberty Plastics (Custom Solutions and Quarrix Building Products) and Safco. 
 
Liberty Diversified International is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, creed, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, disability, or any other protected class.

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