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Machine Setup Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Q Machine Setup Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

KMC is seeking a Machine Operator to Set Up and Operate a Q Machine. This position is located in ... Setup Slide equipment to KMC standards to ensure jobs can be run safely and at-rate * Evaluate ...

Coil Machine Setup Operator

Wichita, KS

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Bosch Home Solutions is seeking a Coil Machine Setup Operator. This position performs setup, operates, maintains troubleshoots and makes minor adjustments to Coil Machines and equipment including Fin ...

Coil Machine Setup Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Bosch Home Solutions is seeking a Coil Machine Setup Operator. This position performs setup, operates, maintains troubleshoots and makes minor adjustments to Coil Machines and equipment including Fin ...

Machine Setup Operator {H}

Woburn, MA

$22 - $30/hr

Operates more than 1 machine at the same time, as required Training: * Trains other employees on the basics of operating equipment on which employee is fully competent Troubleshooting & Problem ...

Setup Machine Operator - 3rd Shift PUNCH PRESS EXPERIENCE PREFERRED Position Summary A growing manufacturing company is seeking a Setup Machine Operator for its 3rd Shift operation. This position is ...

Use hand-operated material handling equipment as needed. Use computer systems to perform production ... Sets up CNC machines or equipment in diversified operations such as machining, milling, turning ...

CNC Mill Setup Operator Fruitport, MI, 1st , $20.00+ per hour Job Summary Are you a motivated and ... Machine Operation: Load and unload materials into CNC lathes to produce precision components ...

CNC Setup Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

The CNC Setup Operator is responsible for preparing and setting up CNC milling and lathe machines to produce small batch, custom parts accurately and efficiently. This role requires expertise in ...

Machine Setup Operator {H}

Woburn, MA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Operates more than 1 machine at the same time, as required Training: * Trains other employees on the basics of operating equipment on which employee is fully competent Troubleshooting & Problem ...

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Machine Setup Operator information

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How much do machine setup operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine setup operator in the United States is $20.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Machine Setup Operator vs Machine Maintenance Technician?

AspectMachine Setup OperatorMachine Maintenance Technician
Primary RolePrepares and sets up machinery for production runsPerforms repairs and preventive maintenance on machinery
Skills & CertificationsBasic mechanical skills, equipment operation certificationsMechanical/electrical skills, maintenance certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floor, focused on setup tasksManufacturing or maintenance shop, focused on repairs
Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing plantsOften found in factories requiring regular equipment upkeep

The Machine Setup Operator primarily prepares machines for production, focusing on setup and calibration. In contrast, the Machine Maintenance Technician handles repairs and preventive maintenance to ensure machinery runs smoothly. While both roles require mechanical skills and are vital in manufacturing, their daily tasks and certifications differ, with setup operators focusing on preparation and technicians on maintenance.

What are Machine Setup Operators?

Machine Setup Operators are skilled workers responsible for preparing, calibrating, and adjusting machinery used in manufacturing or production processes. Their duties typically include installing machine parts, setting up equipment according to specifications, performing test runs, and ensuring machines operate efficiently and safely. They also troubleshoot issues, make minor repairs, and may assist in maintaining production quality by monitoring machine output. This role is essential in keeping production lines running smoothly and minimizing downtime.

What are some typical challenges Machine Setup Operators face during shift changes, and how can they be addressed?

Machine Setup Operators often encounter challenges during shift changes, such as incomplete handovers, discrepancies in machine calibration, or misunderstanding of production priorities. To address these issues, many facilities implement detailed logbooks, standardized checklists, and verbal briefings to ensure smooth transitions. Effective communication between outgoing and incoming operators is vital, as it helps prevent downtime and maintains product quality. Proactively participating in these handover procedures can greatly improve operational efficiency and foster a collaborative team environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Setup Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Setup Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with industrial machinery, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with manufacturing systems like CNC controls, blueprints, and calibration tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help operators adapt to production needs and resolve issues quickly. These skills are crucial to ensure efficient machine operation, minimize downtime, and maintain product quality in a manufacturing environment.
What cities are hiring for Machine Setup Operator jobs? Cities with the most Machine Setup Operator job openings:
What states have the most Machine Setup Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Machine Setup Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Machine Setup Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Full Time, 76% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,436 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
CNC Machine Setup Operator 1st Shift

CNC Machine Setup Operator 1st Shift

Apidel Technologies

Hamilton, OH

$19 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

CNC Setup Operator 1st Shift Hamilton, OH
Hours M-Th 6am-4pm
Job Overview
The CNC Setup Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring CNC machinery to produce precision parts that meet strict quality standards. This role ensures compliance with all safety protocols, ISO requirements, and quality control procedures while maintaining a clean and organized work environment. The operator will play a key role in delivering high-quality components on time, supporting production efficiency, and minimizing downtime through proactive machine operation and basic troubleshooting.
A Day in the Life
As a CNC Setup Operator, your daily responsibilities will include:
Review job orders and technical drawings to determine setup requirements for CNC machines.
Select and install appropriate tooling, fixtures, and materials according to specifications.
Load CNC programs and verify accuracy before initiating production runs.
Perform precise machine adjustments, including offsets and tool changes, to maintain tight tolerances.
Conduct first-piece inspections using calipers, micrometers, and other precision measuring instruments.
Document setup details and inspection results on required forms for quality assurance.
Monitor machine performance during initial runs and make necessary corrections to optimize efficiency.
Collaborate with operators and supervisors to ensure smooth transitions between setups and production runs.
Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with safety and ISO standards.
What Will Help You Thrive in This Role
Experience & Skills:
1-5 years of experience in CNC machine setup and operation.
Proficiency in setting up CNC machines, including tooling, offsets, and program loading.
Strong understanding of CNC prints and ability to maintain tolerances to .000.
Skilled in using precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
Familiarity with machine controls, troubleshooting, and optimizing setups for efficiency.
Experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
Education:
High school diploma, GED, or trade school experience preferred.
Ability to perform basic reading, writing, and math functions.
Technical & Language Skills:
Ability to read and comprehend setup sheets, technical drawings, and CNC programs.
Effective verbal and written communication skills for documenting setups and communicating with team members.
Skilled in using hand tools and shop equipment for adjustments and maintenance.
Mathematical & Reasoning Ability:
Strong math skills for calculating offsets, feeds, and speeds.
Ability to interpret detailed written and oral instructions and apply them to machine setup and operation.
Physical Requirements:
Regularly required to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and lift up to 35 lbs.
Frequent use of hands and arms to handle tools, materials, and machine components.
Visual acuity for close, color, distance, and peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus.


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About Apidel Technologies

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We understand that attracting, qualifying, placing, and retaining the best candidates for our clients requires exceptional talent. That’s why our highly skilled and dedicated recruitment team works tirelessly to develop lifelong associations with all candidates and clients. We prioritize helping our employees achieve their career goals while providing effective staffing solutions to our clients and candidates. At Apidel, we believe in simple yet established core values that are ingrained within each member of our team. These values are time and again illustrated in our approach to employees, candidates, and clients. Our unwavering belief that our core values of integrity, client satisfaction, innovation, and intellect distinguish us from our competitors is what drives us forward. We remain focused on improving and sustaining a measurable client satisfaction program that has created an organizational culture where our associates provide world-class service every day.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Plainfield, IL, US

Year founded

2012