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Steel Machine Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Burn Table Operator

Portland, OR

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

Machine Operator This role focuses on safely preparing and operating plasma and oxy-fuel CNC burning tables with drill turrets to cut, drill, grind, and process heavy steel plate and structural ...

Burn Table Operator - Swing Shift

Eugene, OR

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

... machine. * Be able to read cut lists (basic reading skills and knowledge of materials - types of steel Able to safely operate cranes and forklifts. * Be able to do some layout work. * Review operator ...

Burn Table Operator - Swing Shift

Eugene, OR · On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

The Machine Operator will also be responsible for inspecting parts to specifications and making ... of steel Able to safely operate cranes and forklifts. • Be able to do some layout work. • ...

Burn Table Operator - Swing Shift

Eugene, OR · On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

The Machine Operator will also be responsible for inspecting parts to specifications and making ... of steel Able to safely operate cranes and forklifts. • Be able to do some layout work. • ...

Crane Operator

Eugene, OR · On-site

$19 - $28.30/hr

Farwest Steel Corporation has been the preeminent metal solutions choice within the greater Western ... Assisting machine operators, preparing parts for packaging and delivery per customer requirements ...

Equipment Operator

Eugene, OR · On-site

$20.40 - $29.70/hr

... Steel's Operations Department seeks a knowledgeable and dependable individual to join their team as Equipment Operator 3. In this role, you will be responsible for efficiently operating machinery to ...

Crane Operator

Eugene, OR · On-site

$19 - $29.25/hr

Farwest Steel Corporation has been the preeminent metal solutions choice within the greater Western ... Assisting machine operators, preparing parts for packaging and delivery per customer requirements ...

CNC Machinist

Oregon City, OR

$22 - $30/hr

CNC Machinist This role focuses on setting up and operating CNC mills and lathes to produce high-quality components, primarily from plastic materials but also from titanium and stainless steel. You ...

Showing results 21-40

Steel Machine Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$19

$24

How much do steel machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for steel machine operator in Oregon is $19.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by steel machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Steel Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision under tight production deadlines, managing machine maintenance, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Addressing these challenges involves staying up-to-date with equipment training, practicing proactive maintenance, and communicating effectively with team members to quickly resolve issues. Operators who develop strong attention to detail and adaptability tend to excel in these fast-paced environments, and many employers offer mentorship or training programs to support skill development.

What does a steel machine operator do?

A Steel Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery used in the processing and fabrication of steel products. Their duties often include setting up machines, monitoring production processes, inspecting finished products for quality, and making adjustments to ensure efficient operation. They must follow safety protocols, read technical drawings or blueprints, and may also be involved in basic maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment. Steel Machine Operators play a crucial role in manufacturing environments where precision and safety are essential.

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

AspectSteel Machine OperatorMetal Fabricator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, possibly certifications in machineryHigh school diploma, technical training or apprenticeship, certifications in welding or fabrication
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, working with heavy machineryWorkshops, fabrication shops, using cutting, welding, and assembly tools
Industry UsagePrimarily in steel manufacturing and processingBroader metalworking industry including steel, aluminum, and other metals

While both roles involve working with metals in manufacturing settings, Steel Machine Operators focus on operating heavy machinery to process steel, whereas Metal Fabricators design and assemble metal parts using various tools and techniques. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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

To thrive as a Steel Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with CNC machines, measuring tools, blueprints, and safety protocols is essential, and OSHA certification may be required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help operators ensure product quality and work efficiently in team environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safety, minimizing downtime, and delivering precise, high-quality steel products.

Is a steel machine operator a hard job?

Steel machine operators typically work in manufacturing environments operating heavy machinery to cut, shape, or assemble steel components. The job can be physically demanding and requires attention to safety protocols, technical skills, and sometimes shift work, but it is generally considered manageable with proper training and experience.
What are popular job titles related to Steel Machine Operator jobs in Oregon? For Steel Machine Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Steel Machine Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,994 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 2:30pm - 11:00pm

Shift Differential: $2 per hour 

ABOUT PORTLAND BOLT

Portland Bolt & Manufacturing Co. has built its business success on a philosophy of unparalleled service, quality products, and on-time delivery. Established in 1912, Portland Bolt manufactures large bolts and fasteners for construction projects worldwide — including high-rise buildings, bridges, power plants, and stadiums. With facilities in Portland, OR; Bellows Falls, VT; Jordan, NY; and N. Augusta, SC, and products shipped to all 50 states, 10 Canadian provinces and territories, and 31 countries, we are a growing, global organization rooted in manufacturing excellence.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Forge Operator produces high-quality headed bolts by safely and efficiently operating induction heating equipment and forging machinery. This role heats steel bar to the required temperature and forges it into finished bolts that meet company specifications and quality standards, while maintaining production goals and equipment safety.

FORGING OPERATIONS

  • Operate induction heating equipment to bring steel bar to the required forging temperature
  • Load heated material and operate the two-step forging process to produce headed bolts to required dimensions, including company logo
  • Set up and adjust equipment for different product sizes and production runs
  • Perform routine equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance; report mechanical issues promptly

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Monitor material temperature, machine operation, and finished product quality throughout the production process
  • Perform visual inspections and basic measurements to verify products meet quality standards; remove defective material and notify supervision of quality or equipment concerns
  • Load, unload, and transport raw material and finished product using overhead cranes and forklifts
  • Maintain accurate production records
  • Keep work area clean, organized, and free of safety hazards
  • Work cooperatively with supervisors, maintenance, and other production employees

SAFETY

  • Follow all safety policies, operating procedures, and quality standards
  • Safely handle steel bar and materials around hot surfaces, moving machinery, and industrial noise and vibration
  • Wear required PPE at all times in designated production areas, including safety glasses, hearing protection, heat resistant gloves, and steel-toed footwear

WHY PORTLAND BOLT

Portland Bolt offers a competitive total compensation package including:

  • Profit sharing quarterly bonus
  • Medical, dental, and vision plans
  • 401(k) with company matching
  • Paid time off
  • Free, onsite parking
  • Onsite gym
  • Company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
  • Company-paid Life and AD&D insurance
  • Company-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Mechanical aptitude with willingness to learn forging processes; previous manufacturing, machining, or metalworking experience preferred
  • Must become forklift certified through Portland Bolt within 90 days of hire; overhead crane experience preferred — will train qualified candidates
  • Ability to read and follow work instructions and production specifications; basic math skills; ability to read a tape measure accurately to 1/16 inch
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 lbs independently; frequently bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, twist, and reach
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, and to work around heat, noise, vibration, and moving equipment
  • Strong attention to detail with a commitment to safety and quality
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision after training
  • Dependable attendance with effective communication and teamwork skills