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Senior Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Smyrna, TN ยท On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Machine Operator Work Location: Smyrna, TN 37167 Payrate: 1st Shift $20.00/hr 2nd Shift $21.00/hr ... Work typically involves detailed checks or close review of output by a senior coworker and/or ...

Machine Operator

Smyrna, TN ยท On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Machine Operator Work Location: Smyrna, TN 37167 Pay Rate: $21.00 - $23.00/hr Duration: 3+ Months ... Work typically involves detailed checks or close review of output by a senior coworker and/or ...

Machine Operator

Dayton, TN ยท On-site

$20 - $21/hr

As a senior mechanic, The Mechanic I is an influencer, who leads junior mechanics or teams as ... Qualified in the operation of two major fabrication machines including but not limited to the Laser ...

Machine Operator

Knoxville, TN ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Overview The Thermoforming/Extrusion Operator works at the direction of the Production Senior Lead and the Production Supervisor to ensure that the company safely and efficiently produces the highest ...

Machinist

Chattanooga, TN

$19.75 - $27/hr

About the role Job Summary The Sr. Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining production machinery, ensuring efficient and safe operations. This role performs advanced machine ...

Automated line processing and controlling, or operating with a broader range of production machines ... SR-R3 Employment Type: Full Time Years Experience: 1 - 3 years Salary: $18 - $19 Hourly Bonus ...

$19/hr

Automated line processing and controlling, or operating with a broader range of production machines ... SR-R3 Employment Type: Full Time Years Experience: 1 - 3 years Salary: $18 - $19 Hourly Bonus ...

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Franklin, TN ยท Remote

$118K - $155K/yr

Remote - USA As a Senior Machine Learning Engineer (individual contributor) atRevecore, you will ... Experience with operating ML pipelinesina cloud platform (e.g., AWS, GCP, Azure). A master's degree ...

WINDER OPERATOR C

Talbott, TN ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

To learn fundamentals of the process while assisting machine operators while maintaining a clean ... Maintain equipment, notifying supervisor or Senior Extrusion Technician / Lead of any maintenance ...

WINDER OPERATOR C

Talbott, TN ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

To learn fundamentals of the process while assisting machine operators while maintaining a clean ... Maintain equipment, notifying supervisor or Senior Extrusion Technician / Lead of any maintenance ...

Machinist, Plastics (3rd shift)

Arlington, TN ยท On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

... Machine Operator) & CNC Tech. School Completion. Sr. Machinist (applies only to internal candidates): 5 years of experience as a CNC Machinist (not solely a CNC Machine Operator) or 3 years of ...

Machinist, Plastics (3rd shift)

Arlington, TN ยท On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

... Machine Operator) & CNC Tech. School Completion. Sr. Machinist (applies only to internal candidates): 5 years of experience as a CNC Machinist (not solely a CNC Machine Operator) or 3 years of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Machine Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$22.7K

$72.9K

$148.4K

How much do senior machine operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior machine operator in Tennessee is $72,870.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $93,500.00 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Senior Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Senior Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Machine Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,870 per year, or $35 per hour.

Machine Operator

TiltEdge Solutions LLC

Smyrna, TN โ€ข On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Position: Machine Operator
Work Location: Smyrna, TN 37167
Payrate: 1st Shift $20.00/hr
                2nd Shift $21.00/hr
Duration: 3+ Months role with high chances of extension/conversion
1st SHIFT: 8am - 4:30pm
2nd Shift: 4pm - 12:30am
Dress Code: casual

Job Description:
Responsible for maintaining and operating machinery, including conventional, special purpose, and computer numerical control (CNC) machines. Includes grinders, drills, and presses.

Responsibilities and Key Accountabilities

  • Operates assigned machines, including resistance welding, brake presses, and mechanical power presses. Operates saws, drills, and grinders. Consistently meets production requirements.
  • Maintains clean and safe work area.
  • Packing finished materials into dunnage and loading and unloading.
  • Checks that the finished workpiece conforms to the specifications.
  • Completes documentation correctly for process monitors and production tickets.
  • Starts and observes machine operation to detect malfunctions and may fix issues that might occur during the shift.

Nature and Scope

  • Selects correct processes from clearly prescribed rules, past practices, or instruction. Seeks advice and guidance on non-routine or problem areas from supervisor. Deviations from the norm are cleared by the supervisor.
  • Under close supervision, exercises limited latitude/independent judgment. Work typically involves detailed checks or close review of output by a senior coworker and/or supervisor.

Work Environment

  • Typically located in a comfortable environment but with regular exposure to factors that may cause noticeable discomfort or a moderate risk of accident or illness, such as temperature extremes, moving machinery, loud noises, and fumes.
  • Requires intermittent periods during which continuous physical exertion is required, such as walking, standing, stooping, climbing, lifting, and maneuvering material or equipment that may be heavy (50+ pounds) or awkward.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Ability to read and understand all safety operating procedures and to use all safety features and equipment.
  • Ability to use basic math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplying, dividing, counting and the use of tape measure.
  • 1 to 3 years' related experience.