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Machine Operators Jobs in Buffalo, MN (NOW HIRING)

Ourvita

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Plymouth, MN

$18 - $21.25/hr

Provide training to other Operators as needed on equipment and SOP?sOther Duties and ... High volume machine operating experience a plus.Food & beverage or pharmaceutical experience a plus.

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

AdvancedPCB

Be Seen First

Entry Level Machine Operator

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Entry Level Machine Operator Maple Grove, MN Description Entry Level Production AdvancedPCB was founded in 1989 and is now ranked among the top three board fabricators in the nation. While Advanced ...

Integer

Machine Operator

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site

$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 ...

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Machine Operators information

See Buffalo, MN salary details

$12

$19

$24

How much do machine operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 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 is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often found in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators may earn higher wages due to advanced skills, certifications, and experience. Roles involving CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines or operating heavy industrial equipment typically offer higher salaries compared to standard machine operator positions.

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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Machine operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, certifications, or ownership of a business. Most machine operators earn a median salary well below this threshold.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Most jobs that pay $2000 a day are highly specialized or executive roles, such as senior corporate executives, specialized medical professionals, or certain high-level consultants. For machine operators, such high daily earnings are uncommon and typically require extensive experience, overtime, or working in high-paying industries like oil and gas or aerospace. Generally, achieving this level of pay involves advanced skills, certifications, and often working in demanding environments or under contract arrangements.

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 a machine operator's job salary?

The average salary for a machine operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled operators who work with specialized equipment or in manufacturing environments may earn higher wages and often require certifications or training. Salaries can also vary based on shift work and company size.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,824 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Ourvita

Plymouth, MN

$18 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Ourvita is the largest Europe-based CDMO for food supplements, with a strong global presence. Backed by over 3,000 dedicated professionals worldwide, we pride ourselves on a customer-centric approach and a culture built on expertise, resilience, service quality, and consumer insight working together to create innovative and impactful solutions. Our vision is to make high-quality health and medical products accessible whenever and wherever they are needed, transforming lives and advancing healthcare globally.

Through our commitment to development, distribution, and strategic partnerships, we strive to deliver excellence across the entire value chain. We are currently seeking a skilled and experienced Machine Operator Ito join our team and contribute to this mission.Schedule:Monday to Thursday or Tuesday to Friday, 6:00 am to 4:30 pmThe Machine Operator I will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of our state-of-the-art production equipment, including tablet presses, filling and packaging lines. Primary goal will be to ensure that our production processes run smoothly and meet our high standards of safety, quality and efficiency.Your responsibilities will include:Proficiently operate, monitor and maintain the daily functions of one or two pieces of production equipment.

This could include equipment such as Presses, Cartoning, Tubing, Pouching, Stick Machines, Wrappers, Labelers, and accessories.Set up and operate production machinery in accordance with established procedures and guidelines.Monitor production processes and make necessary adjustments to ensure quality and efficiency.Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of machinery and equipment.Troubleshoot and resolve issues as they arise.Maintain accurate records of production runs and machine performance.Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.Provide training to other Operators as needed on equipment and SOP?sOther Duties and Responsibilities:Understand and adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices.Safety Protocol:Stop any observed unsafe acts and obey facility safety rules and procedures.Correct or report any observed safety hazards.Support safety policies and programs.This list of duties and responsibilities is not all-inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as deemed necessary from time to time.Qualifications:Education / Experience / Certifications:High school diploma or GED preferred.One (1) year related field experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.High volume machine operating experience a plus.Food & beverage or pharmaceutical experience a plus.Small company (Equivalent combination of education and/or experience may be considered.Skills Required:Ability to read, write, speak and understand the English language.Ability to read and interpret documents such as technical documentation, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.Moderate mechanical aptitude.Ability to communicate effectively with co-workers, maintenance and supervisors.Ability to work with basic mathematical concepts of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out interactions furnished in written and oral form.Ability to define problems and establish facts.Attention to detail.Ability to work independently.Ability to manage time when deadlines need to be met.At Ourvita, we are committed to providing our employees with a supportive and engaging work environment that fosters growth and development. We offer competitive market pay, quarterly bonus, and a benefits package including:Medical, Dental, and Vision coverageBasic Life, Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D), Short Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) benefits at no cost to employeesRetirement Plan 401(k) matchHoliday pay and Paid Time Off (PTO)Opportunities for advancementFitness discountsTuition ReimbursementIf you are a motivated and skilled Machine Operator I with a passion for excellence, we encourage you to apply today and join our dynamic team at Ourvita.

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