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Machine Jobs in Kentwood, MI (NOW HIRING)

Lightning Machine is a successful Boring Mill machine shop, specializing in boring mills and vertical machining centers (VMC) to service industries such as stamping, automation, food, mining, and oil.

Machine Builder

Holland, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Seeking a Machine Builder for a permanent opening in the Holland area. This for an established local machine building company and there is room for advancement. Role: This Machine Builder plays a ...

Machine Operator Location: Rockford and Cedar Springs, MI Shift:1st, 2nd & 3rd Pay: $15-16/hr Job Summary Are you a motivated and detail-oriented individual looking for a new opportunity? We're ...

Machine Builder

Grand Rapids, MI

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

Burke Porter Machinery is seeking a first shift Machine Builder to join their team. The Machine Builder will be responsible for Performing assembly of machined and/or purchased components under the ...

Machine Operator

Sparta, MI · On-site

$18/hr

Machine Operator Location: Sparta, MI Shift: 2nd Shift Pay: $18/hr Job Summary Are you a motivated and detail-oriented individual looking for a hands-on opportunity? We're seeking a Machine Operator ...

Machine Builder

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

Burke Porter Machinery is seeking a first shift Machine Builder to join their team. The Machine Builder will be responsible for Performing assembly of machined and/or purchased components under the ...

Machine Operator

Zeeland, MI

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Machine Operator Location: Zeeland, MI, 49464 About Walters Gardens Inc. Headquartered in Zeeland, MI with 80 years of industry leadership, Walters Gardens Inc. (WGI) is North America's leading ...

Machine Operator Location: Sparta, MI Shift: 3rd Shift Pay: $18/hr Job Summary Are you a motivated and detail-oriented individual looking for a hands-on opportunity? We're seeking a Machine Operator ...

Machine Operator Location: Holland, MI Shift: 6:00am-2:00pm (Monday-Friday) Pay: $18.00 per hour Job Summary Are you someone who enjoys working with machines, being part of a team, and producing ...

Machine Operator

Lowell, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Machine Operator Shift & Compensation: * 1st Shift- 6am-2pm- Mon-Friday- $ 18.00 * 2nd shift: 2pm=10pm - Mon- Friday- $ 18.50 * 3rd shift: 10pm= 6am- $ 19.00 Location : On-site - Lowell, MI Integrity ...

Machine Operator

Lowell, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

We are seeking reliable and detail-oriented Machine Operators to join a growing manufacturing team in the Lowell area. This is a hands-on role working with advanced equipment, including lathes, mills ...

Machine Operator

Lowell, MI

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

We are seeking reliable and detail-oriented Machine Operators to join a growing manufacturing team in the Lowell area. This is a hands-on role working with advanced equipment, including lathes, mills ...

Machine Operator Location: Sparta, MI Shift: 2nd Shift - 3:00pm-11:00pm Pay: $16 Job Summary Are you a motivated and detail-oriented individual looking for a new opportunity? We're seeking a Machine ...

Machine Operator

Lowell, MI

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Machine Operator Shift & Compensation: * 1st Shift- 6am-2pm- Mon-Friday- $ 18.00 * 2nd shift: 2pm=10pm - Mon- Friday- $ 18.50 * 3rd shift: 10pm= 6am- $ 19.00 Location : On-site -- Lowell, MI ...

Machine Operator Location: Sparta, MI Shift: 3rd shift Pay: $16 Job Summary Are you a motivated and detail-oriented individual looking for a new opportunity? We're seeking a Machine Operator to join ...

Machine Operators

Holland, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Ideal candidate will be learning how to run the machine, other things are changing out recycle bin, changing bales of materials, moving finished pallets as well as learning how to set up machines.

Machine Operator

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Machine Operator - Rotary Department: Manufacturing Reports To: Production Lead FLSA Status: Nonexempt SUMMARY Sets up and operate machines to produce acceptable product according to Mueller ...

Machine Operator

Grandville, MI

$15.25 - $18/hr

Our dedicated equipment operators / manufacturing machine operators are a critical piece of our business and enjoy the challenge to achieve and exceed our production goals. Their commitment to be the ...

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Machine information

See Kentwood, MI salary details

$12

$24

$44

How much do machine jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine in Kentwood, MI is $24.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine operator?

Machine operators are skilled workers responsible for operating, maintaining, and monitoring machinery in a manufacturing or production setting. They ensure that machines run efficiently, make adjustments as needed, and perform routine inspections to prevent malfunctions. Machine operators often work with a variety of equipment, follow safety protocols, and may also assist in troubleshooting and minor repairs. Their role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and producing quality products.

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, basic math skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or OSHA compliance are important. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you respond quickly to issues and coordinate with colleagues. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production in manufacturing environments.

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 quality standards under tight deadlines, and adapting to new technologies or processes. To address these issues, operators should follow regular maintenance schedules, participate in ongoing training, and communicate proactively with maintenance teams and supervisors. Developing strong troubleshooting skills and staying updated on safety protocols also help ensure efficient and safe operations.

What is the difference between Machine vs Equipment Operator?

AspectMachineEquipment Operator
CredentialsTechnical certifications, training in specific machinerySimilar certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentFactories, construction sites, manufacturing plantsConstruction sites, factories, outdoor and indoor settings
Industry UsageManufacturing, construction, logisticsConstruction, manufacturing, warehousing
Job FocusOperating specific machinery or equipmentDriving, controlling, and maintaining equipment

The main difference between a Machine and an Equipment Operator is that a Machine typically refers to the actual machinery used in various industries, while an Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining that machinery. Both roles require similar certifications and safety training, but Equipment Operators often have broader responsibilities related to the operation and safety of multiple types of equipment in diverse environments.

What cities near Kentwood, MI are hiring for Machine jobs?

Cities near Kentwood, MI with the most Machine job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine job openings in Kentwood, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,361 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

$23 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Lightning Machine is a successful Boring Mill machine shop, specializing in boring mills and vertical machining centers (VMC) to service industries such as stamping, automation, food, mining, and oil. All of our equipment is fully CNC, laser leveled, and calibrated annually to ensure accuracy. We have extensive experience working with aluminum to mild steels. We are able to accommodate material sizes ranging from 2 ft. – 30 ft. Lightning Machine utilizes the latest technology to keep our machines and software up to date. Our Machinery Veterans have a combined experience of over 50 years that take pride in being a small part of our Customers success!

We pride ourselves on our 6 Core Competencies which ensure our employees "Love Coming into Work Every Day":

Attitude | Communication | Initiative | Critical Thinking | Adaptability | Job Knowledge

Responsibilities

  • Setup jobs on the machine, including loading and securely fixturing the work pieces onto the worktable, adjust programs using zero and reference points, tool registers, offsets, and compensation.
  • Calculate speeds and feeds to optimize the machining process.
  • Load/unload tools and use a pre-setter, if applicable.
  • Understand and make adjustments to hold geometric dimensions and tolerances.
  • Experience with machining large parts.
  • Read blueprints to program and run work pieces.
  • Ability to edit CNC programs as required to ensure parts are made to print requirements.
  • Use math, geometry, and trigonometry to complete job responsibilities.
  • Interface directly with internal customers or departments to deliver an estimate of completion and tooling requirements of individual machine projects.
  • Lifts workpiece either manually or with crane or hoist onto machine table or directs crane operator to put workpiece on machine table.
  • Positions and secures workpiece to table or angle plate, using clamps, shims and parallel blocks. Verifies position with such instruments as dial indicators, gauge blocks, and height gauges.
  • Verifies dimensions of machined workpiece with such measuring instruments as micrometers, telescoping gauges, Vernier calipers, and dial indicator.
  • Works with CNC programmers and other team members to optimize and standardize CNC programs.

Technical Related Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Prior experience as a CNC Horizontal/Vertical Boring Mill is a must.
  • Ability to review part prints and assure machining accuracy.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications including GD&T notes and specific criteria.
  • Ability to trouble shoot CNC programs for issues and errors.
  • High School diploma preferred.
  • Must have good manual and verbal dexterity.
  • Must be able to work independently.
  • Programming experience preferred.
  • Heidenhain experience preferred.

We realize and appreciate that our strength and competitive advantage is due to our capable team. Our employees are rewarded and recognized for performance. We offer a competitive compensation and benefit package that reflects Lightning Machine's high regard for our employees. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace committed to building a team culture that celebrates the skill, talent and experience of machinists who share our dedication to quality.

Location: Holland, Michigan