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Manufacturing Operator Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Cleanroom Operator

Aberdeen, MD · On-site

$22.97 - $28.81/hr

An operator must demonstrate the ability to coordinate all manufacturing functions such as press and tooling setup, equipment operation, quality inspection standard work, preventive maintenance, and ...

An operator must demonstrate the ability to coordinate all manufacturing functions such as press and tooling setup, equipment operation, quality inspection standard work, preventive maintenance, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Manufacturing Operator information

See Maryland salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do manufacturing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing operator in Maryland is $18.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing operator?

A manufacturing operator is in charge of production equipment before, during, and after manufacturing. As a manufacturing operator, your duties are to implement assembly, test and inspect for issues, operate during the production process, and ensure all safety procedures are followed. Your responsibilities also include handling the setup of materials and supplies, maintaining equipment in working condition, and cleaning and repairing when needed. You report any hazardous conditions immediately to your supervisor and perform regular checks to ensure the quality of products and a safe work environment. The job often requires handling heavy equipment and operating industrial vehicles.

What skills and qualifications are important for a manufacturing operator?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Operator, you need a solid understanding of production processes, machinery operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with tools such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), automated manufacturing systems, and quality control software is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure efficient production, minimize errors, and maintain a safe, high-quality manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by manufacturing operators, and how can they be managed?

Manufacturing Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and meeting tight production deadlines. To manage these challenges, operators are trained to follow strict safety and quality protocols, perform regular equipment checks, and communicate effectively with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Adaptability and attention to detail are key, as operators must respond quickly to issues and collaborate with colleagues to ensure smooth production flow. Proactively seeking feedback and staying updated on process improvements can also help operators succeed in the role.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Operator vs Production Technician?

AspectManufacturing OperatorProduction Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, manufacturing plantsFactories, equipment maintenance areas, production lines
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing companies across various industriesManufacturing and industrial facilities, often in specialized sectors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Manufacturing Operators primarily focus on operating machinery and ensuring production runs smoothly, often with minimal technical training. Production Technicians typically have more technical skills, including troubleshooting and maintenance, and may require additional certifications. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, but Production Technicians usually handle more complex tasks related to equipment upkeep and process improvements.

What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Operator jobs in MD?

For Manufacturing Operator jobs in MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Operator job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,485 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

$23.04 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 429 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

175th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Work Schedule

Second Shift (Afternoons)

Environmental Conditions

Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance, Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards, Cold Room/Freezers -22degreesF/-6degrees C, Laboratory Setting, Loud Noises (Equipment/Machinery), Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.), Strong Odors (chemical, lubricants, biological products etc.), Will work with hazardous/toxic materials

Job Description

As part of the Thermo Fisher Scientific team, you’ll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life every single day to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We provide our global teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while helping to take science a step beyond by developing solutions for some of the world’s toughest challenges, like protecting the environment, making sure our food is safe or helping find cures for cancer.
DESCRIPTION:
Join our manufacturing team as a Lead Operator at Thermo Fisher Scientific, where you'll contribute to global health and scientific advancement. In this key role, you'll lead and mentor a team while ensuring consistent execution of production processes. You'll support operational excellence through continuous improvement initiatives while maintaining high standards of safety and quality. Working with advanced technology, you'll coordinate daily manufacturing activities, resolve complex issues, and foster an inclusive environment that values innovation and collaboration. This is an opportunity to grow professionally while contributing to our mission of enabling customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer.
REQUIREMENTS:
• 4 years of manufacturing experience, with demonstrated leadership capabilities
• Preferred Fields of Study: Engineering, Chemistry, Biology or related field
• Technical certifications in manufacturing or relevant field beneficial
• Strong knowledge of cGMP, ISO standards and regulatory requirements
• Expert ability to read and interpret manufacturing documentation, SOPs, and technical specifications
• Advanced troubleshooting and problem-solving skills for manufacturing equipment and processes
• Demonstrated success implementing continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing practices
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively lead and mentor team members
• Proficiency with manufacturing software systems, ERP platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to strictly follow safety protocols and maintain clean room/controlled environment standards
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in PPE as required
• Flexibility to work various shifts and overtime as needed
• Experience with documentation and batch record review in regulated environments
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to quality standards
• Strong analytical and decision-making capabilities
• Experience training and developing team members

Compensation and Benefits

The hourly pay range estimated for this position based in Maryland is $23.04–$30.00.

This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:

  • A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs

  • Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement

  • At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy

  • Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan

  • Employees’ Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount

For more information on our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.thermofisher.com/global/en/total-rewards


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