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Machine Tool Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HX5 LLC

Machine-Tool Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Machine-Tool Operator Huntsville, Alabama HX5 is an award-winning provider of engineering, research and development, and technical services to clients such as NASA and the Department of Defense.

HX5 LLC

Machine-Tool Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Machine-Tool Operator Huntsville, Alabama HX5 is an award-winning provider of engineering, research and development, and technical services to clients such as NASA and the Department of Defense.

Field Fastener

Machine Tool Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

This role involves operating various metalworking machines, including threaders, band saws, chamfering tools, punch presses, bending machines, and welding equipment. This position requires experience ...

Field Fastener

Machine Tool Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

This role involves operating various metalworking machines, including threaders, band saws, chamfering tools, punch presses, bending machines, and welding equipment. This position requires experience ...

VTG

Tool Room Attendant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21.98/hr

Someone in this position specializes in operating one or more than one type of machine tool (e.g., jig borer, grinding machine, engine lathe, milling machine) to machine metal for use in making or ...

VTG

Tool Room Attendant

Jamul, CA · On-site

$21.98/hr

Someone in this position specializes in operating one or more than one type of machine tool (e.g., jig borer, grinding machine, engine lathe, milling machine) to machine metal for use in making or ...

VTG

Tool Room Attendant

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21.98/hr

Someone in this position specializes in operating one or more than one type of machine tool (e.g., jig borer, grinding machine, engine lathe, milling machine) to machine metal for use in making or ...

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Machine Tool Operator information

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$16

$25

$32

How much do machine tool operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine tool operator in the United States is $25.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine tool operator?

Machine tool operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain machines that cut, shape, and form metal and other materials. They work with equipment such as lathes, milling machines, grinders, and drill presses to manufacture precision parts and products. Machine tool operators read blueprints or technical drawings, ensure machines are properly calibrated, and monitor production for quality and safety. Their work is essential in manufacturing industries, including automotive, aerospace, and metal fabrication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine tool operator?

To thrive as a Machine Tool Operator, you need a solid understanding of machining processes, blueprint reading, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with CNC machines, manual lathes, milling machines, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure precise, efficient, and safe operation of machinery, which is crucial for maintaining product quality and workplace safety.

What are some common challenges faced by machine tool operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Machine tool operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision during repetitive tasks, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and managing tight production schedules. To address these, it's important to stay vigilant about quality checks, promptly report or fix minor issues before they escalate, and communicate effectively with team members and supervisors. Many workplaces provide ongoing training and encourage collaboration, which helps operators stay updated on best practices and new technologies.

What is the difference between Machine Tool Operator vs Machinist?

AspectMachine Tool OperatorMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, machine shopsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, custom fabrication shops
Job FocusSet up, operate, and monitor machines to produce partsDesign, set up, and operate machines; create custom parts and tools
Common UsageManufacturing, assembly lines, mass productionPrecision machining, custom manufacturing, tool making

While both roles involve operating machinery in manufacturing settings, Machine Tool Operators primarily focus on running and monitoring machines to produce parts, often following established specifications. Machinists typically have more technical training and are involved in designing and setting up complex machines for custom or precision work. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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Machine Tool Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Tool Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,407 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Machine-Tool Operator

HX5 LLC

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate one or more types of machine tools to machine metal or nonmetallic materials for making or maintaining jigs, fixtures, cutting tools, gauges, or molds.

  • Set up machine tools, including installing cutting tools and adjusting controls, to handle the size of stock and achieve required dimensions.

  • Use precision measuring instruments and make adjustments during machining to meet close tolerances.

Job description

Machine-Tool Operator
Huntsville, Alabama
HX5 is an award-winning provider of engineering, research and development, and technical services to clients such as NASA and the Department of Defense. Founded in 2004, HX5 is a fast-growing veteran- and woman-owned company with locations nationwide.
HX5 is currently seeking a Machine-Tool Operator (Tool Room) to work onsite in a laboratory environment at Marshall Space Flight Center. This category includes occupations concerned with setting up and operating machine tools and using hand tools to make or repair (shape, fit, finish, assemble) metal parts, tools, gauges, models, patterns, mechanisms, and machines.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: This position specializes in operating one or more than one type of machine tool (e.g., jig borer, grinding machine, engine lathe, milling machine) to machine metal for use in making or maintaining jigs, fixtures, cutting tools, gauges, or metal dies or molds used in shaping or forming metal or nonmetallic material (e.g., plastic, plaster, rubber, glass).
Work typically involves:
  • Planning and performing difficult machining operations which require complicated setups or a high degree of accuracy, setting up machine tool or tools (e.g., installing cutting tools and adjusting guides, stops, working tables, and other controls to handle the size of stock to be machined.
  • The Machine Tool Operator determines proper feeds, speeds, tooling, and operation sequence or selects those prescribed in drawings, blueprints, or layouts).
  • Work also involves using a variety of precision measuring instruments, making necessary adjustments during machining operations to achieve requisite dimensions to very close tolerances.
  • This worker may be required to select proper coolants and cutting and lubricating oils to recognize when tools need dressing, and to dress tools.

Experience:
Extensive knowledge of machine shop and tool room practice are usually acquired through considerable on the job training and experience.
Other Position Requirements:
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position.
  • Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.
  • Requires ability to obtain and maintain NASA Public Trust background screening requirements.
  • Must be able to pass a MSFC physical examination for any required safety-related certifications.
  • All positions supporting the METTS III contract are subject to NASA medical screenings at the start of employment and annually, as determined by the outcomes of the Safety, Health, and Environmental Job Assessment Questionnaire.
  • With or without reasonable accommodation must be able to operate various machines, lift, bend or crouch occasionally.
  • Must be able to work independently or with a team.
  • Communicate clearly.
  • Pre-employment drug screen

Work Environment:
  • Machine Shop, Laboratory, test environments, test stands, possible confined spaces.
  • Loud/ Noisy space

HX5 offers a competitive salary and benefits package to include:
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) plan with Company Match
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off
  • Parental Leave
  • Life Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Pet Insurance

HX5, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.
HX5, LLC is a Drug Free Workplace Employer.
ACCESSIBILITY NOTICE:
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process due to a physical or mental disability, please call (850) 362-6551.
#LI-ONSITE
CJ
HX5 logo

About HX5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Walton Beach, FL, US

Year founded

2004

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