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Senior Machine Operator Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Caterpillar

Senior Mechanic Tech I

Green Valley, AZ · On-site

The successful candidate will diagnose and repair complex machine systems including engines ... Mentor and train mechanics, technicians, operators, and visitors on repair procedures, diagnostics ...

Komatsu

Sr Test Technician

Sahuarita, AZ · On-site

$68K - $80K/yr

Fabricate and assemble machine and test fixtures. * Apply strain gages for the purpose of ... Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more ...

Beztak Senior Living

Dishwasher

Oro Valley, AZ · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Beztak Senior Living wants you to join our family of talented individuals. We are seeking to hire ... Operating a company vehicle or personal vehicle (as required) to perform job duties. Candidates ...

Beztak Senior Living

Dishwasher

Oro Valley, AZ · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Beztak Senior Living wants you to join our family of talented individuals. We are seeking to hire ... Operating a company vehicle or personal vehicle (as required) to perform job duties. Candidates ...

Beztak Senior Living

Service Technician

Oro Valley, AZ · On-site

$18/hr

Beztak Senior Living wants you to join our family of talented individuals. We are seeking to hire ... Operating a company vehicle or personal vehicle (as required) to perform job duties. Candidates ...

Beztak Senior Living

Service Technician

Oro Valley, AZ · On-site

$18/hr

Beztak Senior Living wants you to join our family of talented individuals. We are seeking to hire ... Operating a company vehicle or personal vehicle (as required) to perform job duties. Candidates ...

Bradken

Area Manager

Tucson, AZ

At Bradken (a subsidiary of Hitachi Construction Machinery) , how we work is just as important as ... Experience as a Team Lead, Senior Individual Contributor, or People Manager. We welcome mid-level ...

Jm

Metal Manufacturing Tech I - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$35K - $48K/yr

... by operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring quality standards are met. This ... The Metal Manufacturing Technician I will work under the supervision of senior level employees and ...

Jm

Metal Manufacturing Tech II - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ

$46K - $64K/yr

... by operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring quality standards are met. This ... The Metal Manufacturing Technician I will work under the supervision of senior level employees and ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsSenior Machine Operator JobsSenior Machine Operator Jobs in Tucson, AZ

Senior Machine Operator information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$23.6K

$75.9K

$154.6K

How much do senior machine operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior machine operator in Tucson, AZ is $75,910.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $97,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Machine Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ?

For Senior Machine Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Machine Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Machine Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Senior Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Senior Machine Operator job openings:

Senior Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Machine Operator job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,910 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

Senior Mechanic Tech I

Caterpillar

Green Valley, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 489 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

273rd of 496 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Career Area:
Operations
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Mechanic Tech I to perform complex diagnostics, repairs, modifications, assembly, and evaluation of Caterpillar mining and construction equipment in support of Buckets & Blades, Off Highway Trucks (OHT) and Large Mining Truck (LMT) programs. This position requires advanced mechanical expertise, strong troubleshooting capabilities, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision. The successful candidate will diagnose and repair complex machine systems including engines, powertrain, hydraulic, electrical, electronic, and structural systems while supporting product development, machine validation, field investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role requires strong technical judgment, effective communication skills, and the ability to provide guidance and training to less experienced technicians.
What You Will Do:
Advanced Diagnostics & Repair
  • Perform complex assembly, disassembly, repair, modification, and overhaul of Caterpillar mining and construction equipment.
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, powertrain, electrical, electronic, and structural system issues.
  • Conduct root cause analysis and determine appropriate corrective actions for equipment failures.
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, service manuals, technical documentation, and work orders.
  • Evaluate equipment safety, serviceability, reliability, and reparability.

Equipment Support & Machine Operations
  • Operate construction, mining, and support equipment safely and effectively.
  • Support machine builds, engineering updates, product improvements, and technical modifications.
  • Prepare, maintain, and repair machines to ensure readiness for testing and field evaluations.
  • Support field investigations and machine inspections as required.

Testing & Product Validation
  • Support machine validation, durability testing, and engineering evaluation activities.
  • Assist with machine instrumentation, data collection systems, and test support activities.
  • Identify machine performance concerns and communicate findings to engineering teams.
  • Verify repairs and modifications through functional testing and machine evaluations.

Leadership & Technical Support
  • Work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
  • Mentor and train mechanics, technicians, operators, and visitors on repair procedures, diagnostics, and safe work practices.
  • Communicate technical information through verbal discussions and written reports.
  • Support cross-functional teams in identifying and implementing product improvements.

Safety & Continuous Improvement
  • Promote and maintain Caterpillar's safety culture at all times.
  • Follow established safety procedures, standards, and operating practices.
  • Participate in initiatives that improve safety, quality, efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
  • Effectively perform as both a team member and team leader depending on project needs.

What Skills You Will Have:
Advanced Mechanical Diagnostics Demonstrated ability to diagnose and repair complex engine, hydraulics, powertrain, electrical, electronic, and structural systems on heavy equipment.
Technical Expertise Strong understanding of construction and mining equipment systems, service procedures, schematics, engineering drawings, and service literature.
Problem Solving & Root Cause Analysis Ability to investigate equipment failures, analyze technical issues, and implement effective corrective actions.
Equipment Operation Experience safely operating construction, mining, and support equipment.
Leadership & Mentoring Ability to provide technical guidance and training to other mechanics and technicians.
Communication Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate technical information to engineers, customers, visitors, and team members.
Top Candidates Will Have:
  • Extensive experience repairing and diagnosing Caterpillar mining and construction equipment.
  • Advanced troubleshooting experience with engines, hydraulics, powertrain, electrical, and electronic systems.
  • Experience supporting Buckets & Blades, Large Mining Trucks (LMT), or similar heavy mining equipment.
  • Experience performing root cause failure analysis and machine evaluations.
  • Experience reading and interpreting engineering drawings, hydraulic schematics, and electrical diagrams.
  • Prior Caterpillar dealer, proving ground, product support, field service, or mining industry experience.
  • Experience mentoring and training technicians and mechanics.

Additional Information:
  • Primary Location: Tucson Proving Ground - Green Valley, AZ (on-site full-time)
  • Relocation: Not available
  • Travel: Up to 10% (including field support activities)
  • Visa Sponsorship: Not available

Posting Date: 08/26/2026 - 09/09/2026
Summary Pay Range:
$24.75 - $37.15
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
Posting Dates:
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
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