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

Utility Operator I

La Porte, TX ยท On-site

$20.96 - $26.20/hr

Receives direct supervision from the Senior Utility Operator ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Duties may ... Operate trucks and construction equipment such as backhoes and trenching machines, horizontal ...

Utility Operator I

La Porte, TX ยท On-site

$20.96 - $26.20/hr

Receives direct supervision from the Senior Utility Operator ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Duties may ... Operate trucks and construction equipment such as backhoes and trenching machines, horizontal ...

Operate various machines and mechanical instruments. * Meet quality standards and print tolerances ... Programming preferred for senior level operators. * A willingness and ability to plan and meet ...

Sr. ML Ops Engineer

Spring, TX ยท On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

Job Summary This senior level position is responsible for building and operating the platforms, pipelines, and standards that support the development, deployment, and lifecycle management of machine ...

Operate various machines and mechanical instruments. * Meet quality standards and print tolerances ... Programming preferred for senior level operators. * A willingness and ability to plan and meet ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Machine Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$23.9K

$76.7K

$156.1K

How much do senior machine operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior machine operator in Houston, TX is $76,672.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,600.00 and $98,400.00 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 Houston, TX? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Senior Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Senior Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Machine Operator job openings in Houston, TX 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 $76,672 per year, or $36.9 per hour.

Senior CNC Machining Technician-

Colson Group

Magnolia, TX โ€ข On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY

ESCO Plastics, part of Colson Group, is investing in a new automated polyurethane manufacturing line at its Magnolia, Texas facility. This strategic expansion will introduce advanced manufacturing technologies, automation, and modern production processes to support future business growth. Team members joining this project will have the unique opportunity to help build a new operation from the ground up, work withstate-of-the-artequipment, develop new skills, and contribute to one of the company's most important growth initiatives.
The Senior CNC Machining Technician serves as the technical lead for the CNC machining cell, providing expertise in machine setup, programming, troubleshooting, process optimization, and new product introduction. This role combines hands-on production responsibilities with technical leadership, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality machining operations. The Senior CNC Machining Technician will support daily production requirements while developing machining processes, mentoring technicians and operators, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. This is an onsite, first shift position with a schedule of Monday-Friday, 7:00AM-3:30PM with overtime as required. Pay range for this role is $28.00-$32.00 per hour.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Technical Leadership

  • Serve as the primary technical resource for the CNC machining cell.
  • Provide leadership and direction to CNC operators and technicians on machining methods, setups, tooling, and process improvements.
  • Assistinestablishingbest practices and standard work instructions for machining operations.
  • Mentor and train technicians and operators to develop technical capabilities and promote workforce growth.
  • Support workforce development byidentifyingtraining needs and helping build future CNC technical talent.

CNC Setup and Operation

  • Perform complex machine setups, changeovers, and first-piece approvals.
  • Operate CNC machining equipment as part of the daily production team.
  • Monitor machining processes and make adjustments as necessary.
  • Verify part conformance through inspections and measurement techniques.

Programming and Process Development

  • Create,modify, andoptimizeCNC programs asrequired.
  • Develop machining processes, tooling strategies, andworkholdingsolutions.
  • Support process validation andestablishmachining parameters.
  • Maintain program documentation and revision control.

Troubleshooting and Continuous Improvement

  • Diagnose and resolve machining, tooling, programming, and equipment-related issues.
  • Implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and scrap.
  • Lead continuous improvement efforts.
  • Collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams.

New Product Introduction (NPI)

  • Support the launch of new products into production.
  • Collaborate with engineering, quality, and operations teams.
  • Recommend tooling, fixturing, and process improvements.

Quality and Safety

  • Ensure compliance with all safety policies and procedures.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Support quality systems and corrective action activities.
  • Ensure adherence toestablishedquality standards.