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Steel Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Set up, operate, and monitor machinery used in steel fabrication or processing * Read and interpret ... Experience operating steel fabrication or industrial machinery * CNC or automated machine operation ...

Machine Operator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

The operator will operate CNC beam-processing equipment (drill lines, coping machines, layout systems, etc.) in a structural steel environment. This role supports beam production per shop drawings ...

Operating a Press Machine to form steel bars. Repetitive movement lifting up to 25lbs Loud environment (hearing protection provided) Not climate controlled Will get dirty. Steel toed shoes* Prior ...

MACHINE OPERATOR

Lavonia, GA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Steelworks LLC is a single-source steel fabricator and construction firm providing a full range of ... POSITION SUMMARY Machine Operator at Steelworks are responsible for cutting the part members for ...

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Machine Operator - Steel Processing Position Summary Friedman Industries is seeking motivated and safety-focused Machine Operators to join our operations team. This position plays a critical role in ...

Machine Operator

Sinton, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Machine Operator - Steel Processing Position Summary Friedman Industries is seeking motivated and safety-focused Machine Operators to join our operations team. This position plays a critical role in ...

Machine Operator

Granite City, IL · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Machine Operator - Steel Processing Position Summary Friedman Industries is seeking motivated and safety-focused Machine Operators to join our operations team. This position plays a critical role in ...

Machine Operator

East Chicago, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Machine Operator - Steel Processing Position Summary Friedman Industries is seeking motivated and safety-focused Machine Operators to join our operations team. This position plays a critical role in ...

Machine Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Machine Operator - Steel Processing Position Summary Friedman Industries is seeking motivated and safety-focused Machine Operators to join our operations team. This position plays a critical role in ...

Machine Operator

Sinton, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Machine Operator - Steel Processing Position Summary Friedman Industries is seeking motivated and safety-focused Machine Operators to join our operations team. This position plays a critical role in ...

Machine Operator

Sinton, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Machine Operator - Steel Processing Position Summary Friedman Industries is seeking motivated and safety-focused Machine Operators to join our operations team. This position plays a critical role in ...

Machine Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Machine Operator - Steel Processing Position Summary Friedman Industries is seeking motivated and safety-focused Machine Operators to join our operations team. This position plays a critical role in ...

Machine Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Machine Operator - Steel Processing Position Summary Friedman Industries is seeking motivated and safety-focused Machine Operators to join our operations team. This position plays a critical role in ...

Machine Operator

Sinton, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Machine Operator - Steel Processing Position Summary Friedman Industries is seeking motivated and safety-focused Machine Operators to join our operations team. This position plays a critical role in ...

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Steel Machine Operator information

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How much do steel machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for steel 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Steel Machine Operator, and why are they important?

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.

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.

More about Steel Machine Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Steel Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Steel Machine Operator job openings:
What states have the most Steel Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Steel Machine Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Steel Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 46% Part Time, and 1% Contract. 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

Equiliem

Wilmington, DE

$21 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position Description
The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining production machinery used in the fabrication and processing of steel components. This role ensures safe, efficient, and accurate machine operation while meeting quality standards and production schedules in a steel manufacturing environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  1. Set up, operate, and monitor machinery used in steel fabrication or processing
  2. Read and interpret work orders, job instructions, and production schedules
  3. Adjust machine controls, settings, and tooling as required for production runs
  4. Measure and inspect products to ensure compliance with specifications and tolerances
  5. Perform routine equipment checks and basic preventative maintenance
  6. Identify machine malfunctions, quality issues, or defects and report them promptly
  7. Maintain accurate production and quality records
  8. Follow all safety rules, OSHA regulations, lockout/tagout procedures, and PPE requirements
  9. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
Position Requirements
Required Qualifications
  1. High school diploma or GED preferred
  2. Prior machine operation experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment
  3. Ability to read measurements, gauges, and basic blueprints
  4. Mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
  5. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
  6. Strong commitment to safety and quality
Preferred Qualifications
  1. Experience operating steel fabrication or industrial machinery
  2. CNC or automated machine operation experience
  3. Prior experience in a steel plant or heavy manufacturing environment
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About Equiliem

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Equiliem specializes in staffing clinical, non-clinical, and allied personnel. We excel in all levels, disciplines, and specialties within the healthcare spectrum. Our projects range from short to long term local and travel assignments. Equiliem has been recognized as a certified small business enterprise. In addition, we are proud that we have earned the prestigious Joint Commission accreditation for staffing firms and have been awarded Best in Staffing 4 years running by our employees and client partners.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

East Brunswick, NJ, US