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Production Machine Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

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Production Machine Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do production machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for production machine operator in Portland, OR is $19.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a production machine operator?

Production Machine Operators are skilled workers responsible for running, monitoring, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing and production processes. They set up machines, ensure they operate efficiently, and perform quality checks on products. Operators may also troubleshoot minor mechanical issues and keep records of production output. Their role is vital for ensuring that products are made efficiently, safely, and to quality standards.

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

To thrive as a Production Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes basic computer-controlled equipment (such as CNC machines) is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and reliability are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production output in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by production machine operators and how can they be overcome?

Production Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as managing machine downtime, maintaining high-quality output under tight deadlines, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. Staying proactive with regular maintenance, following safety protocols, and communicating effectively with maintenance teams are key strategies to overcome these issues. Additionally, being adaptable and open to ongoing training helps operators keep up with technological advancements and improve efficiency on the production line.

What is the difference between Production Machine Operator vs Machine Setter?

AspectProduction Machine OperatorMachine Setter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training often required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floors, operating machineryManufacturing floors, setting up and adjusting machines
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly linesCommon in manufacturing, equipment setup
Primary FocusOperating machines to produce goodsPreparing and adjusting machines for production

While both roles work in manufacturing environments, Production Machine Operators focus on running machinery during production, whereas Machine Setters prepare and calibrate machines before operation. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Production Machine Operator jobs in Portland, OR?

For Production Machine Operator jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Production Machine Operator jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Production Machine Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:

Production Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Production Machine Operator job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,613 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Machine Operator

Ajinomoto Foods North America

Portland, OR

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Ajinomoto Foods North America is a leading frozen foods company, committed to providing nutritious and delicious meals globally. With a rich history of diverse ethnic brands, our brands have become household favorites all across America.  We are dedicated to contributing to a healthier lifestyle through nutritious and balanced Umami foods. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, all our products are cooked with our customers in mind, providing healthy and delicious meals for all.

We are looking for a Swing Shift Machine Operator to join our rapidly expanding team in the Portland area. The Machine Operator is responsible for ensuring machines are working at full capacity while producing quality product. Machine operators make sure machines are well-maintained and perform periodic checks on output, visually inspect production run and document results, and determine and report malfunctions to appropriate parties while maintaining cleanliness of equipment and assigned area.

Schedules are typically Monday - Friday.  Starting at 4:15pm; 8-10 hour shifts.

Starting pay is $20/hour + $0.50 shift differential 

If you choose to work with us, you will be an integral part of a team with a rich and diverse culture that learns, grows, and succeeds together. You will also have access to some amazing benefits such as: 

  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance on DAY ONE
  • Company paid STD, LTD, and Life Insurance on DAY ONE
  • 80 hours of vacation and 40 hours of sick time per fiscal year
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings plan that includes company’s matching contributions up to 4.5%
  • Wellness reimbursement towards gym membership and/or exercise equipment
  • Referral bonuses totaling $750 when an employee refers someone to work with our company
  • Quarterly sales of product to employees

Position Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Effectively and efficiently perform the safe operation of various machinery in the areas of set-up, troubleshooting and break down during operation.
  • In a timely manner, set up, start-up and break down during the beginning and end of all production shifts.
  • Must demonstrate the ability to troubleshoot effectively in order to minimize Production down time.
  • Regularly make adjustments necessary to maximize production machine efficiency. Must be able and willing to communicate all improvements to all team members and key departments.
  • Reduce downtime by actively identifying mechanical issues which have the potential for machine breakdown or downtime and reports to Leads and/or Supervisors.
  • May be required to operate other equipment necessary in the production process.
  • Practice and follow all GMP’s (Good Manufacturing Practices) at all times during production.

Position Qualifications
  • 6+ months of recent experience as a Machine Operator
  • Ability to read, write, and understand English
  • Ability to solve simple mathematical equations involving percentages
  • Ability to work in a cold or warm environment, depending on line and machine
  • Comfortable with doing a very physical job with lots of movement and heavy lifting
  • High levels of attention to detail
  • Ability to work weekends and overtime as needed
  • #INDPOR
Qualifications:
  • 6+ months of recent experience as a Machine Operator
  • Ability to read, write, and understand English
  • Ability to solve simple mathematical equations involving percentages
  • Ability to work in a cold or warm environment, depending on line and machine
  • Comfortable with doing a very physical job with lots of movement and heavy lifting
  • High levels of attention to detail
  • Ability to work weekends and overtime as needed
  • #INDPOR
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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