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Shear Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McNichols

Machine Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator/Fabricator is responsible for operating cutting equipment such as large band saws, hydraulic shears, panel saws and cold saws to cut bar grating, sheet metal, sheet wire ...

McNichols Co

Machine Operator

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

The Machine Operator/Fabricator is responsible for operating cutting equipment such as large band saws, hydraulic shears, panel saws and cold saws to cut bar grating, sheet metal, sheet wire ...

McNichols Co

Machine Operator

Whitehall, OH · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

The Machine Operator/Fabricator is responsible for operating cutting equipment such as large band saws, hydraulic shears, panel saws and cold saws to cut bar grating, sheet metal, sheet wire ...

PPS-HPS

Fabrication Operator

Latonia, KY · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... operator with experience in a welding/fabrication shop to join the team. [ Duties ... Operate a variety of fabrication machines such as Press Break, Plasma Laser, Shearer Machine, Drill ...

JLG Industries

Machine Operator

Greencastle, PA

$20.50 - $23.85/hr

This position is responsible for operating equipment used in the cutting, fabricating, and ... shear, roller, band saw, overhead crane, robot work cell and CNC Machining Center 5. Accurately ...

Sunward Steel Buildings

Be Seen First

Machine Operator

Jamestown, ND · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

The Opportunity We are hiring a Machine Operator to join our Jamestown manufacturing team. You will ... Operate press brakes, roll formers, shears, punches, or similar fabrication equipment to produce ...

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Machine Operator

Murphysboro, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

... shears, and drill presses in order to cut, file, fit, punch, ream, rivet, form, and/or assemble ... Press Operator, Machine Operator, Maker/Packer. Assembles mechanical units or fabricated parts to ...

Marmon

Machine Operator

Murphysboro, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

... shears, and drill presses in order to cut, file, fit, punch, ream, rivet, form, and/or assemble ... Press Operator, Machine Operator, Maker/Packer. Assembles mechanical units or fabricated parts to ...

Novalis US, LLC

Extrusion Operator 3

Dalton, GA

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Turn shear machine and gantry on and off. * Reset robot and shear machine. * Adjust sensor on ... Report quality issues to operator, lead, or supervisor. * Make pallet labels. * Properly use the ...

Three Point Solutions

Machine Operator

Warsaw, IN · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

... shears, and saws • Set up machines and make necessary adjustments for production • Perform ... operators • Handles moderately complex production activities • May contribute to process ...

Three River Recycling

Machine Operator

Baden, PA

$21 - $22/hr

Machine Operator Baden, PA Three Rivers Recycling is a private family-owned scrap metal company ... Mostly excavator with shear attachment use, but also must be capable of safely loading and ...

Barton Supply

Machine Operator

Aurora, CO · On-site

$22/hr

Operate a variety of rebar processing equipment-including The Barwiser, MEP, Shear, Bender, Double Bender, Crane, Forklift, Coil 20, and more. Rebar Machine Operator Perform routine maintenance to ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Fort Worth, TX

$17/hr

Machine Operator The Machine Operator sets up, operates, and tends multiple types of cutting and ... Set up and operate machines such as lathes, cutters, shears, borers, millers, grinders, presses ...

Wastequip

Machine Operator

Albany, OR

$19.72 - $21.57/hr

... for a Machine Operator to support our Albany, OR manufacturing operation. This is a full-time ... Operating a Press Brake and/or Shear * Turns handwheels to adjust rake (angle) and pressure of ...

Barton Supply

Machine Operator

Aurora, CO

$22/hr

Operate a variety of rebar processing equipment-including The Barwiser, MEP, Shear, Bender, Double Bender, Crane, Forklift, Coil 20, and more. Rebar Machine Operator Perform routine maintenance to ...

Wastequip

Machine Operator

Albany, OR

$19.72 - $21.57/hr

... for a Machine Operator to support our Albany, OR manufacturing operation. This is a full-time ... Operating a Press Brake and/or Shear * Turns handwheels to adjust rake (angle) and pressure of ...

Barton Supply

Machine Operator

Aurora, CO

$22/hr

Operate a variety of rebar processing equipment--including The Barwiser, MEP, Shear, Bender, Double Bender, Crane, Forklift, Coil 20, and more. Rebar Machine Operator Perform routine maintenance to ...

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All JobsShear Machine Operator Jobs

Shear Machine Operator information

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$12

$18

$23

How much do shear machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for shear machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators with advanced skills, certifications, and experience can earn higher wages. Roles involving CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines or operating heavy, high-precision equipment tend to offer the highest salaries in the field.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

The average salary for a shear machine operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in metalworking or manufacturing environments may earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials can also impact total compensation.

What is the difference between Shear Machine Operator vs Metal Fabricator?

AspectShear Machine OperatorMetal Fabricator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plantsWorkshops, manufacturing facilities, construction sites
Industry UsageMetal cutting, sheet metal workAssembling, welding, shaping metal parts
Job FocusOperating shear machines to cut metal sheetsCreating metal components through various fabrication processes

The main difference is that a Shear Machine Operator specializes in operating shear equipment to cut metal sheets, while a Metal Fabricator performs a broader range of tasks including cutting, welding, and assembling metal parts. Both roles require similar certifications and work in manufacturing environments, but their job scopes differ in complexity and scope of work.

What are shear machine operators?

Shear machine operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain machines that cut metal sheets, plates, or bars into specific shapes and sizes. They interpret blueprints or specifications, adjust machine settings, and ensure that the cuts are precise and meet quality standards. Safety is a key part of the job, as operators must handle sharp materials and large equipment. They also perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot issues to keep the machines running efficiently.

What does a shear operator do?

A shear machine operator is responsible for operating and maintaining shear machines that cut metal or other materials to specified sizes. They set up the equipment, ensure safety protocols are followed, and inspect finished products for accuracy and quality. This role often requires knowledge of machine operation, safety standards, and precision measurement tools.

What are some typical challenges faced by Shear Machine Operators and how can they be addressed?

Shear Machine Operators often face challenges such as maintaining precision when cutting different materials, managing machine downtime, and ensuring safety in a fast-paced environment. To address these challenges, operators are encouraged to regularly calibrate and maintain their machines, follow strict safety protocols, and stay updated on proper handling techniques for various sheet metals. Teamwork with maintenance staff and clear communication with supervisors also play a vital role in minimizing errors and keeping production on schedule.

What does a shear machine do?

A shear machine, used by shear machine operators, cuts sheet metal or other materials into desired sizes by applying a shearing force. It is a key tool in manufacturing and fabrication environments, requiring knowledge of safety procedures and proper operation. The machine can be manual or hydraulic, and operators often need to follow specific safety standards and use protective equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Shear Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Shear Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with experience in manufacturing or metalworking environments often preferred. Familiarity with operating industrial shear machines, measuring instruments, and safety protocols is crucial, and some positions may require forklift certification. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators coordinate with colleagues and address production issues efficiently. These skills ensure precision, safety, and productivity in cutting materials to specifications within a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
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Shear Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shear Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

McNichols

Elk Grove Village, IL

$16.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

With distribution centers nationwide, McNICHOLS is the leading and trusted supplier of metal products including perforated, grating, mesh, expanded, and designer metals. Our products are used in applications all around you, helping to shape architectural designs, entertainment venues, and more. Family-founded and customer obsessed, we have a purpose driven team inspired to support our customers in building America.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Machine Operator/Fabricator to join our team. The Machine Operator/Fabricator is responsible for operating cutting equipment such as large band saws, hydraulic shears, panel saws and cold saws to cut bar grating, sheet metal, sheet wire, fiberglass, and other materials.
All uniforms, steel toed boots, welding gear, and safety equipment is provided in a clean, safe work environment. We also offer an excellent training program, skill based pay, and great opportunities for career growth.
Responsibilities
  • Safely operate shop equipment to cut metal materials using hydraulic shears and saws, and other power tools
  • Operate forklifts, other lift equipment and /or cranes to move material as required.
  • Process material by following instructions on work orders and shop drawings and verify material and work for accuracy
  • Properly setup equipment using appropriate feeds and speeds
  • Maintain a high attention to safety, quality, and productivity in the fabrication area
  • Observe safety procedures, assure self and others safety and report any safety issues
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Experience operating shop equipment such as hydraulic shears or similar, large band saws, cold saws, etc.
  • Capable of following written instructions and interpret shop drawings.
  • Able to stand for extended periods of time and lift material weighing up to 50 pounds
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to work independently in a production oriented environment and perform against established performance standards
  • Self-starter with a willingness to learn.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Must be able to work overtime as required
At McNICHOLS we reward our team with quarterly incentives, great health and wellness benefits, generous 401k matching, 15 days of PTO, as well as 100% company paid life insurance, disability, wellness, and financial health benefits.
Join McNICHOLS – Where Inspired People and Inspired Service are our mission. Visit us at mcnichols.com/careers to learn more!

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