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Precision Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Andritz

Machine Operator I

Springfield, MA

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Conduct in-process inspections using precision tools such as straightedges, indicators, and anvil ... Machine Operator I Job Details | ANDRITZ AG. ANDRITZ is an AA/EEO/Veterans/ADA friendly employer.

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Longwood, FL · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Machine Operator Location: Longwood, FL Shifts Available:1st Shift - 7:00am to 4:30pm | Monday ... Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications using precision ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Longwood, FL · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Machine Operator Location: Longwood, FL Shifts Available:1st Shift - 7:00am to 4:30pm | Monday ... Measure dimensions of finished workpieces to ensure conformance to specifications using precision ...

Midway Staffing

Machine Operator

Broadview, IL

$18/hr

Machine Operator Job Title: Machine Operator Location: Broadview, IL 60155 Pay Rate: $18.00/hr ... Ability to use precision measuring tools, including calipers, scales, and gauges. * Bilingual ...

Little Mountain Precision LLC

Machine Operator

Mentor, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Machine Operator (CNC milling) * ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following but ... Operate one or more milling machines of precision metal parts. * Maintains quality of work pieces ...

Princeton Precision Group

Machine Operator

Mentor, OH · On-site

$18/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Princeton Precision Group: Always Advancing. Each business unit ... Upon completion of training Machine Operators will load, machine, and gauge various size metal ...

ARUNDEL MACHINE

Machine Operator

Athol, MA

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

* Machine Operator - Flexible work hours: First shift Monday through Friday 5:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 7:30 ... High Precision 5 axis CNC Walter Grinders * Set-Up Pro: Expertly set up machines, select tooling ...

Smiths Machine

Machine Operator

Athol, MA

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

* Machine Operator - Flexible work hours: First shift Monday through Friday 5:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 7:30 ... High Precision 5 axis CNC Walter Grinders * Set-Up Pro: Expertly set up machines, select tooling ...

Grundfos

Machine Operator-1st shift

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Are you passionate about ensuring product quality through precision measurement and hands-on ... As our new Machine Operator , you will be performing complete setup and operations of various ...

Wise Staffing Group

Machine Operator

Rockford, TN · On-site

$16/hr

Use cutting machines to precision-cut materials. Requirements: * Experience: * Prior experience as a Machine Operator in metal tubing production. * Technical Skills: * Proficiency in operating press ...

Manufacturing Inc

CT · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

The Milling Machine Operator will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining milling ... Inspecting machined parts using precision measuring instruments (e.g., micrometers, calipers) to ...

Onsite Personnel LLC

Machine Operator

Bethel, CT

$17.50 - $21/hr

Utilize precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and other quality control ... Machine Operator: * Proven experience operating manufacturing machinery such as CNC milling ...

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Precision Machine Operator information

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How much do precision machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for precision machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Precision Machine Operators?

Precision Machine Operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain machines that produce metal or plastic parts with very tight tolerances. They use equipment such as lathes, mills, grinders, and computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines to manufacture components according to detailed specifications. These operators read blueprints, monitor machine performance, and inspect finished products for accuracy. Their work is critical in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing where precision parts are essential.

What are some common challenges faced by Precision Machine Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Precision Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining tight tolerances, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and managing multiple production deadlines. To overcome these, operators should develop strong attention to detail, stay updated on the latest machine technologies, and practice proactive machine maintenance. Collaborating closely with quality control and engineering teams also helps ensure that parts meet specifications and production runs smoothly. Continuous learning and effective communication are key to success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Precision Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Precision Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with blueprint reading, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with CNC machines, calipers, micrometers, and industry-specific quality control systems is typically required. Problem-solving skills, reliability, and effective communication help operators excel in working with teams and troubleshooting equipment. These skills ensure the efficient production of high-quality parts and minimize costly errors or downtime in manufacturing environments.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often found in specialized fields such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine operators or those working in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing with advanced equipment. These roles typically require technical skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer higher salaries compared to general machine operator positions.

Can a machinist make 100k a year?

Precision machine operators typically earn less than $100,000 annually, with median wages around $45,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Achieving a $100,000 salary often requires advanced skills, certifications, or supervisory roles beyond standard machine operation.

What is the difference between Precision Machine Operator vs CNC Machine Operator?

AspectPrecision Machine OperatorCNC Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in machine operationHigh school diploma, technical training, CNC certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floors, workshops, working with various manual or semi-automated machinesManufacturing floors, operating computer-controlled machines
Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, metalworkingManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, metalworking
Work FocusSetting up, operating, and maintaining precision machines to produce partsProgramming, setting up, and operating CNC machines to produce complex parts

Both roles involve working with manufacturing equipment, but Precision Machine Operators focus on manual or semi-automated machines, while CNC Machine Operators specialize in computer-controlled machinery. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on skills and certifications.

What does a precision machinist do?

A precision machinist operates and sets up machine tools to produce parts with high accuracy and tight tolerances. They read technical drawings, use measuring instruments like calipers and micrometers, and often work with CNC machines in manufacturing environments to ensure parts meet strict specifications.

Is precision machining hard?

Precision machine operators work with complex machinery to produce highly accurate parts, which requires attention to detail, technical skills, and knowledge of measurement tools like calipers and micrometers. The job can be challenging due to the need for precision, understanding of technical drawings, and adherence to safety standards, but with proper training and experience, it becomes manageable. Success in this role often depends on problem-solving skills and the ability to work with precision equipment consistently.
More about Precision Machine Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Precision Machine Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Precision Machine Operator jobs are:
Precision Machine Operator jobs near you
Machine Operator I

Machine Operator I

Andritz

Springfield, MA

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Andritz rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

106th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Every day, ANDRITZ continues to deliver successful innovative solutions to our customers globally. Why are we so successful? Because we are passionate and love what we do! We are at the forefront of future engineering technologies, with solutions that ensure the success of our clients in key industries that are shaping the future of the world we live in.

NOW HIRING

MACHINE OPERATOR I

.

Are you ready to enjoy perks such as twenty-seven (27) PAID days off per year, annual bonus potential, service awards, tuition reimbursement, continued advancement opportunities, health benefits to include 401k (with match), medical, dental, vision, life insurances, and much more? 

ANDRITZ is seeking a Machine Operator I to join our Paper Service team in Springfield, MA. This specialized role is responsible for operating two NC knife grinding machines simultaneously while maintaining tight straightness, dimensional accuracy, and surface finish requirements across extended blade lengths. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with experience in long-bed grinding, knife grinding, surface grinding, or precision machining of hard or brittle materials, all while maintaining quality, safety, and productivity standards.

Responsibilities

  • Grind ceramic blades up to 400 inches long while maintaining tight tolerances.
  • Perform machine setup, including long-part alignment, fixturing, grinding wheel selection, dressing, NC program adjustments, and feed control.
  • Monitor the grinding process to prevent edge chipping, material fracture, heat-related distortion, and surface defects.
  • Conduct in-process inspections using precision tools such as straightedges, indicators, and anvil micrometers.
  • Coordinate workflow between machines to maximize efficiency and uptime.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on grinding equipment.
  • Safely handle long, fragile components using cranes or assist equipment.

Qualifications

Required:

  • High school diploma or GED preferred; equivalent work experience and knowledge with 3+ years of grinding or machining (knife grinidng, surface grinding, or simiilar) will be considered.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Three or more years of grinding or machining experience, such as knife grinding, surface grinding, or similar precision machining.
  • Experience working with tight tolerances on long parts preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
  • Strong understanding of grinding fundamentals, including speeds, feeds, and material behavior.
  • Ability to multitask effectively and run multiple machines in a production environment.
  • Strong attention to detail, commitment to quality, and ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment.

Preferred:

  • Knife grinding, long-bed grinding, or experience with ceramic or composite materials.
  • Familiarity with NC grinding machines, including Gockel or similar equipment.
  • Experience maintaining straightness and flatness over extended lengths.
  • Overhead crane or material handling experience.

 

Apply Today

This is not a standard grinding role. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working with very long ceramic blades, maintaining precision over extended lengths, and managing two machines in parallel. If you are safety-focused, detail-oriented, and experienced in precision grinding or machining, we encourage you to apply at Machine Operator I Job Details | ANDRITZ AG.

ANDRITZ is an AA/EEO/Veterans/ADA friendly employer.

Legal authorization to work in the United States is required.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.

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