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Permanent Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

CRH

Production Operator

Rosenberg, TX · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Job Summary Operates plant machinery & equipment as directed while adhering to all rules and ... on a temporary or permanent basis as needed Job Requirements * High school diploma or GED ...

CRH

Production Operator

Rosenberg, TX

$15 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Job Summary Operates plant machinery & equipment as directed while adhering to all rules and ... on a temporary or permanent basis as needed Job Requirements * High school diploma or GED ...

nGenium

Senior BMET

Houston, TX · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Houston, TX (Full time, Permanent) Salary: $100,000 + excellent benefits About the Company: A ... EKG machines, operating room equipment, ventilators, anesthesia machines, and other clinical ...

Link Staffing

CNC Lathe & Mill Operators

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

LINK Staffing is hiring CNC Lathe & Mill Operators for a respected manufacturing facility in the ... machinists seeking a stable schedule, competitive pay, weekly paychecks, and a path to permanent ...

Openwork

Packaging Specialist - 2nd Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Previous machine operating experience preferred. * Forklift experience required (assessment ... Pay increase upon permanent hire. Benefits Upon Permanent Hire: * Medical, dental, and vision ...

Ferpa Precision Machine Inc

CNC Lathe Programmer

Houston, TX · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Signing bonus About Us Founded in 1990, FERPA Precision Machine, Inc. is a family-owned business ... S. national, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a ...

Openwork

Packaging Specialist - 1st Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Previous machine operating experience is a plus. * Ability to read a tape measure and perform basic ... Benefits Upon Permanent Hire: * Medical, dental, and vision insurance. * 401(k) retirement plan.

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPermanent Machine Operator JobsPermanent Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Permanent Machine Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do permanent machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for permanent machine operator in Houston, TX is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Permanent Machine Operator vs Temporary Machine Operator?

AspectPermanent Machine OperatorTemporary Machine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires relevant certifications or licensesMay require similar certifications, but often less experience needed
Work EnvironmentFull-time, consistent shifts in manufacturing or industrial settingsShort-term, project-based or seasonal work in similar environments
Employer UsageEmployed directly by the company on a long-term basisHired through staffing agencies or temp agencies for temporary roles

Permanent Machine Operators are employed full-time with ongoing responsibilities, while Temporary Machine Operators work on short-term contracts. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but their employment terms and job stability differ.

What are some common challenges permanent machine operators face, and how can they overcome them?

Permanent Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as managing repetitive tasks, adhering to strict safety protocols, and responding quickly to machine malfunctions. To overcome these challenges, operators benefit from developing strong attention to detail, maintaining regular communication with maintenance teams, and staying current with ongoing training on equipment updates. Proactively following safety guidelines and participating in team meetings can also help address issues efficiently and promote a safe, productive work environment.

How much do you get paid as a permanent machine operator?

A permanent machine operator typically earns an average annual salary ranging from $35,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of machinery operated and certifications held, with some positions offering additional benefits and overtime pay.

What is a permanent machine operator?

Permanent Machine Operators are skilled workers who operate, monitor, and maintain machinery in manufacturing or industrial settings on a long-term or indefinite basis. Unlike temporary or contract machine operators, permanent machine operators are hired directly by the company and typically receive full employee benefits. Their responsibilities include ensuring machines run efficiently, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and adhering to safety protocols. These operators play a crucial role in maintaining production quality and efficiency within the organization.

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

To thrive as a Permanent Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and basic mechanical aptitude, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, computerized control systems, and sometimes certifications like OSHA or forklift operation are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for identifying issues and collaborating with coworkers. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production in manufacturing environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

Permanent Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Permanent Machine Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,123 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Live Tooling CNC Lathe Programmer/ Machinist

Ferpa Precision Machine Inc

Houston, TX • On-site

$32 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Benefits:
  • Company parties
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discounts
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance
  • Wellness resources
  • Relocation bonus
  • Signing bonus

About Us
Founded in 1990, FERPA Precision Machine, Inc. is a family-owned business with over 36 years of experience in outsourced manufacturing. We specialize in high-performance seals and components, offering innovative, reliable, and on-time solutions as a single-source machining provider.  Our collaborative work environment values each team member’s contribution as we continue our tradition of manufacturing excellence. We look forward to partnering with you!
 
Position Summary
FERPA Precision Machine is seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Programmer / Machinist to support our growing aerospace and space manufacturing business. This position is responsible for setting up, operating, and optimizing multi-axis CNC turning centers equipped with Y-axis, live tooling, C-axis, and sub-spindles, including our new DN Solutions PUMA 2600SY II.
The ideal candidate is a highly skilled setup machinist who can independently take apart from print to production by developing efficient machining strategies, optimizing cycle times, troubleshooting machining issues, and producing precision components with tight tolerances and complex profile requirements.
This position will also support our Lead CNC Lathe Programmer by assisting with programming, process development, prove-outs, and continuous process improvement. While programming is not the primary responsibility, the successful candidate should be comfortable creating and editing Mastercam programs, offering machining expertise, and serving as a technical resource for the turning department. 
Responsibilities
  • Assist with creating, modifying, and optimizing CNC Lathe programs in Mastercam to support production, new part development, and continuous process improvement.
  • Set up and operate multi-axis CNC turning centers equipped with Y-axis, live tooling, C-axis, and sub-spindles, including the DN Solutions PUMA 2600SY II.
  • Perform first-piece setups, prove out new programs, and optimize machining processes for efficiency, quality, and tool life.
  • Configure tooling, tool offsets, work offsets, and cutter compensation as required by job specifications.
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T, and customer specifications.
  • Perform detailed inspections using micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, indicators, thread gauges, and other precision measuring equipment to verify part conformity.
  • Verify machine setup and ensure compliance with quality standards and customer requirements.
  • Design and build custom fixtures and workholding solutions to support efficient production.
  • Select appropriate cutting tools, inserts, holders, feeds, speeds, and machining strategies for a variety of materials.
  • Troubleshoot machining, tooling, and process issues to maintain productivity and improve cycle times.
  • Perform routine machine maintenance and maintain equipment in safe working condition.
  • Collaborate with the Lead CNC Lathe Programmer on programming strategies, process improvements, and new job development.
  • Work closely with Engineering, Quality, and Production to meet delivery schedules and quality objectives.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support business and production needs. 
Job Requirements/ Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent; technical or vocational machining education preferred.
  • 5+ years of experience setting up and operating CNC lathes.
  • Experience programming or editing CNC Lathe programs in Mastercam (preferred).
  • Experience with multi-axis turning centers featuring live tooling, Y-axis, C-axis, and sub-spindles.
  • Experience machining precision metal components from: 
    • 300 Series Stainless Steel
    • Nitronic 50 / Nitronic 60
    • 15-5 PH & 17-4 PH Stainless Steel
    • Aluminum
    • Bronze
    • MP35N
    • Inconel
  • Experience in aerospace, space, or other precision manufacturing environments preferred.
 
 Skills and Competencies 
  • CNC lathe programming using G-code and M-code.
  • Blueprint reading and tolerance interpretation.
  • Knowledge of tooling, materials, and cutting parameters.
  • Proficiency with precision measuring instruments.
  • Strong shop math and troubleshooting skills.
  • Detail-oriented, organized, and able to work independently.
  • AS9100 and ISO 9001 experience or familiarity is a plus. 
 
 Additional Requirements 
  • This position requires U.S. Person status as defined by applicable law for authorized access to data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). A U.S. Person includes U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, lawful permanent residents, and workers granted refugee or asylum status in the United States.