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Senior Machine Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Sr Machinist

Chanhassen, MN · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

You will have the ability to do basic machine set-up, quality control and minor machine maintenance ... Preferred 5+ years of experience operating and setting up CNC milling machines, but similar ...

Sr Machinist

Chanhassen, MN · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

You will have the ability to do basic machine set-up, quality control and minor machine maintenance ... Preferred 5+ years of experience operating and setting up CNC milling machines, but similar ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Machine Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$24.5K

$78.6K

$160.1K

How much do senior machine operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior machine operator in Minnesota is $78,634.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,600.00 and $100,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectSenior Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires more experience and sometimes certifications in specific machineryBasic machine operation certifications or training
Work EnvironmentOversees complex machinery, may supervise othersOperates machinery under supervision or standard procedures
ResponsibilitiesMaintains, troubleshoots, and optimizes equipment; mentors junior staffPerforms routine machine operation tasks

The main difference between a Senior Machine Operator and a Machine Operator lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership. Senior Machine Operators handle more complex tasks, oversee equipment, and often mentor others, whereas Machine Operators focus on routine operation. Both roles require relevant certifications, but the senior position demands more expertise and experience.

What opportunities for career advancement are available to senior machine operators within manufacturing organizations?

Senior Machine Operators often have several pathways for career growth, including moving into supervisory or team lead roles, such as Production Supervisor or Shift Manager. Many organizations value the technical expertise and leadership skills developed in this position, making it possible to transition into roles that focus on process improvement, quality assurance, or training new operators. Additionally, pursuing certifications in advanced manufacturing technologies or equipment maintenance can open doors to specialized roles, such as Maintenance Technician or Process Engineer. Demonstrating initiative and strong problem-solving abilities can further increase advancement prospects within the company.

What is a senior machine operator?

Senior Machine Operators are experienced professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting industrial machinery in manufacturing or production settings. They oversee machine performance, ensure safety standards are met, and may supervise junior operators. Their role often includes setting up machines, performing quality checks, and making adjustments to optimize efficiency and product quality. Senior Machine Operators typically have several years of hands-on experience and a strong understanding of mechanical systems.

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

To thrive as a Senior Machine Operator, you need advanced mechanical aptitude, experience with manufacturing equipment, and often a high school diploma or equivalent with additional technical training. Familiarity with CNC machines, PLC systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure efficient production, minimize errors, and maintain a safe and productive work environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Senior Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Senior Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Machine Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,634 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Sr Machinist

Curtisswright

Chanhassen, MN • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Sr Machinist - 2nd shift **Sign-On Bonus Available for Select Candidates**

We are looking for a Sr Machinist to join our Exlar team!

As our Sr Machinist you will, produce metal parts to specifications using CNC machine tools. You will have the ability to do basic machine set-up, quality control and minor machine maintenance when required.

Location: Chanhassen, MN

Hours: Monday to Thursday 3:00pm to 1:30am

Salary/hourly rate: $25.00 to $35.00, plus 2nd shift differential pay

Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in Minnesota. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.

We Take Care of Our People

Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase PlanI Inclusive & Supportive Culture *

Your Challenge

  • Utilize CNC multi-axis lathes with live tooling to manufacture parts using drawings, inspection sheets and on the job guidance.

  • Utilize CNC vertical milling machines to manufacture parts using drawings, inspection sheets and on the job guidance.

  • Prove out new CNC programs and provide recommendations to improve existing programs and tooling.

  • Perform inspection and measurements on manufactured parts using drawings and inspection sheets.

  • Perform setup on machines using setup sheets and on the job training.

  • Perform minor preventative maintenance on machines.

What You Bring

  • Preferred 5+ years of experience operating and setting up CNC multi-axis lathes with live tooling, but similar or relevant experiences and skills will be considered.

  • Preferred 5+ years of experience operating and setting up CNC milling machines, but similar experiences and skills will be considered.

  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints.

  • Experience performing measurements using calipers, micrometers, and other inspection instruments.

  • Perform setup on machines using setup sheets and on the job training.

  • Perform minor preventative maintenance on machines.

  • Prove out new CNC programs and provide recommendations to improve existing programs and tooling.

  • Must be a U.S. Person.

Who We Are

Our Values

Environmental, Social and Governance

Curtiss-Wright manufactures Exlar electromechanical linear roller screw actuators, rotary servo motors, and integrated control solutions for a broad range of applications. Our roller screw technology provides an efficient electric replacement for hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders and a more robust replacement for ball screws. With forces up to 80,000 pounds and speeds up to 60 inches per second, we can deliver higher force and speed in smaller packages than other comparably sized actuation technology. Our team of highly skilled engineers can put together the right solution to increase productivity, reduce maintenance, and reduce total cost of ownership.

To learn more, please visit us at About | Actuation Division | Curtiss-Wright (cw-actuation.com)

*Please note, benefits are country specific and may vary from location to location.

#LI-MB

No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.

Compliance Statement

This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.

Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contactTalent Acquisition.

For US Applicants:EEO is The Law - click here for more information.

If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.


What Curtiss-Wright employees say

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About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

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