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Manufacturing Production Operative Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Balchem

Manufacturing Production Operator

Lincoln, NE

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

... manufacturing sites, and R&D centers, primarily located in the US and Europe. Founded in 1967 ... POSITION SUMMARY We are seeking a diligent production operator to join our team, with 1st, 2nd, and ...

Doncasters

Production Operative

Oxford, AL · On-site

$12.50 - $14.75/hr

As a leading international manufacturer of specialist superalloys and high-performance alloy ... You will need to learn and understand the products, equipment set-up, follow specific operating ...

ESPO Corporation

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Manufacturing Production Operator 26-00351

Maquoketa, IA · On-site

$18 - $19.25/hr

Manufacturing Production Operator Location: Maquoketa, IA Permanent/Direct Hire You'll start out earning $18.00/hour and if you work 2nd or 3rd shift, you'll make $19.25/hour. And if you work a ...

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Manufacturing Production Operative information

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How much do manufacturing production operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing production operative in the United States is $16.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing production operator?

A manufacturing production operator is a worker responsible for operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring production processes run smoothly on the factory floor. They often follow safety protocols, work with tools and equipment, and may need basic technical skills or certifications. The role typically involves shift work in a manufacturing environment with a focus on efficiency and quality control.

What are some common challenges faced by Manufacturing Production Operatives, and how can they be addressed?

Manufacturing Production Operatives often face challenges such as maintaining consistent quality during fast-paced production runs and adapting to new machinery or processes. Staying vigilant about safety protocols and communicating effectively with team members can help manage these challenges. Regular training sessions and a supportive team environment also play a key role in ensuring operatives can quickly adapt to changes and troubleshoot issues efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Manufacturing Production Operative, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Production Operative, you need attention to detail, manual dexterity, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and quality control systems is typically required, and some positions may prefer candidates with forklift or OSHA certifications. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production processes, ensuring workplace safety, and delivering consistent product quality.

How much is the salary of a production operator?

The salary of a manufacturing production operative typically ranges from £18,000 to £25,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the specific industry. Some roles may offer overtime pay or shift allowances, especially for night or weekend shifts.

What is a Manufacturing Production Operative?

A Manufacturing Production Operative is a worker responsible for operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring production processes run smoothly in a factory or manufacturing environment. Their duties often include monitoring equipment, following safety procedures, and maintaining quality standards. These operatives play a crucial role in keeping production lines efficient and meeting output targets. No formal qualifications are usually required, but attention to detail and the ability to work well in a team are important. Training is often provided on the job.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Production Operative vs Manufacturing Assembly Worker?

AspectManufacturing Production OperativeManufacturing Assembly Worker
CredentialsBasic training, health & safety certificationsBasic training, health & safety certifications
Work EnvironmentFactory floor, production linesFactory floor, assembly lines
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing plantsCommonly used in manufacturing plants
Job FocusOperating machinery, quality checksAssembling components, following instructions

Both roles are essential in manufacturing, often overlapping in work environment and required skills. The Manufacturing Production Operative typically involves operating machinery and quality control, while the Manufacturing Assembly Worker focuses on assembling parts. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role suited to their skills and career goals.

What does a manufacturing operative do?

A manufacturing operative is responsible for operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring quality standards are met on the production line. They often follow safety procedures, work in a factory environment, and may need basic technical skills or certifications. Their role supports efficient production and maintaining workflow in manufacturing settings.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Manufacturing production operatives typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized roles like senior executives, highly skilled contractors, or consultants in certain industries. Most manufacturing roles offer hourly wages or salaries that amount to significantly less than $2000 daily, unless combined with overtime, bonuses, or profit-sharing arrangements.
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What states have the most Manufacturing Production Operative jobs? States with the most job openings for Manufacturing Production Operative jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Production Operative jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Production Operative jobs are:
Manufacturing Production Operative jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Production Operative job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,996 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Manufacturing Production Operator

Manufacturing Production Operator

Balchem Corporation

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Balchem Corporation rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

COMPANY OVERIVEW
At Balchem we are committed to making the world a healthier place by delivering trusted, innovative, and science-based solutions to the nutrition, health, and food markets. Our Lincoln, Nebraska location specializes in the production and packaging of high-quality cereal with options that are organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free. Our corporate headquarters is located in Montvale, New Jersey and we have a broad network of sales offices, manufacturing sites, and R&D centers, primarily located in the US and Europe. Founded in 1967, Balchem is a publicly traded company (NASDAQ - "BCPC") with annual revenues over $900 million and a market cap exceeding $4.0 billion. The company consists of three business segments: Human Nutrition & Health; Animal Nutrition & Health; and Specialty Products. Balchem employs over 1,400 people worldwide who are engaged in diverse activities, committed to developing the company into global market leadership positions. To learn more about our dynamic, stable and growing company, visit www.balchem.com.
POSITION SUMMARY
We are seeking a diligent production operator to join our team, with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts available. In this role, you will be responsible for maintaining the continual operation of the Cooker and Extruder machines by maintaining machinery, keeping the workspace clean and safe, and adhering to all OSHA standards, quality standards, and Balchem Policies. Our ideal candidate has experience with machinery, is familiar with the manufacturing process from raw material to finished product and/or has prior food handling related experience. You should be able to follow instructions, work as part of a team, and maintain high-quality work standards at all times.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Communicate with other Operators, being aware of timing and speed, while maintaining the standards of product
  • Operate the Cooker and/or Extruder machine making necessary changes, including but not limited to continual operation and unloading, setting up feed systems, screw configuration, and perform basic troubleshooting efforts, while ensuring adherence to all Standard Operating Procedures
  • Maintain the necessary functions of the augers, scales, slurry injector, and understand the need to vent steam, and cook cycle times to ensure product flow to surge bin
  • Properly utilize the Programmable Logic Controller, loading the recipe, and both manual and auto cooker operations, making necessary changes if needed
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, reporting any discrepancies or concerns
  • Accurately handle all paperwork and collect data, maintaining proper reporting in the ERP systems for all returned ingredients
  • Monitor product quality and promptly notify the appropriate personnel of any issues that arise
  • Maintain a sanitary work area adhering to all OSHA standards and Balchem Corporation's Standard Operating Procedures including but not limited to in process, end of shift, end of run, quarterly and as otherwise directed
  • Always maintaining a high level of awareness for all safety measures including OSHA regulations and procedures set forth by Balchem Corporation's management, including proper use of Lock out/Tag out procedures
  • Perform other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS
  • High School diploma or general education degree (GED)
  • Three to six months of related experience and/or training is preferred
  • You must be equipped with strong motivation, organization, time management, and communication skills (both orally and written)
  • You must be able to read and comprehend simple instructions
  • Have excellent attention to detail and the ability to multi-task and prioritize
  • Possess effective communication and conflict resolution skills
  • The ability to distinguish colors is required
  • Ability to give and welcome feedback and contribute to building a positive team spirit

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • You will continually be required to stand, walk, use hands for handling or feeling objects, talk, and use your vision and hearing abilities
  • Regularly, you will be required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl, following proper ergonomic principles
  • Periodically required to lift up to and above 50 and 100 pounds, utilizing safe and proper lifting techniques and equipment
  • Occasionally you may operate equipment, including but not limited to computers, drafting equipment and instruments involving scientific meters and measuring devices
  • Required to adhere to all personal protective equipment policies and procedures
  • You will rarely be exposed to wet or humid conditions, working near moving mechanical parts, work in extreme heat (non-weather), or work in high noise levels and vibration
  • You may also periodically work in high or precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, outdoor weather conditions, and extreme cold (non-weather)

WHAT WE OFFER
  • 1st Shift (7am-3pm), 2nd Shift (3pm-11pm), 3rd Shift (11pm-7am)
  • Shift differential rate: 2nd Shift ($1 extra per hour), 3rd Shift ($1.50 extra per hour)
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Plan Insurance after 1st month
  • 401(k) with 6% employer match after 60 days
  • Paid Time Off
  • Uniforms and safety shoes provided
  • Tuition Reimbursement after 2 years (work-related)
  • Free Cereal

#IND123
Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for the job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Balchem is committed to a workplace culture that values and promotes diversity, inclusion, equal employment opportunities, and a work environment free of harassment and hostility.

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