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Steel Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Roll Forming Machine Operator is responsible for operating equipment in a roll forming ... Rick Dancer, President of Skyline Steel since 1987, found that subcontracting portions of the work ...

Burning Machine Operator

Troy, MI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Operate Burning machine and or Plasma cutting machine for steel plate * Overhead crane and Hi-Lo use * Troubleshoot and resolve issues in a timely fashion * Load and unload steel plate and and ...

Burning Machine Operator

Troy, MI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Operate Burning machine and or Plasma cutting machine for steel plate * Overhead crane and Hi-Lo use * Troubleshoot and resolve issues in a timely fashion * Load and unload steel plate and and ...

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

Houston, TX

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Whirlwind Steel is a premier metal building manufacturer specializing in the design, fabrication ... A Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining various types of ...

Crane/Machine Operator

Ottawa, OH · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

As an Oscillating Machine Operator you will be an important part of the Steel Technologies team and critical to meeting our customer demands. You're more than a machine operator, you're an equipment ...

Machine Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Whirlwind Steel is a premier metal building manufacturer specializing in the design, fabrication ... A Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining various types of ...

Machine Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Whirlwind Steel is a premier metal building manufacturer specializing in the design, fabrication ... A Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining various types of ...

Machine Operator

Pelham, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Subsidiary Vulcan Steel Products Overview Are you a highly motivated, hard-working individual that enjoys succeeding along-side a team? Machine Operators at Vulcan Steel Products work together to ...

Crane/Machine Operator

Ottawa, OH

$15 - $18/hr

As an Oscillating Machine Operator you will be an important part of the Steel Technologies team and critical to meeting our customer demands. You're more than a machine operator, you're an equipment ...

Machine Operator

Pelham, AL

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

SubsidiaryVulcan Steel ProductsOverview Are you a highly motivated, hard-working individual that enjoys succeeding along-side a team? Machine Operators at Vulcan Steel Products work together to ...

Machine Operator

Pelham, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

SubsidiaryVulcan Steel ProductsOverview Are you a highly motivated, hard-working individual that enjoys succeeding along-side a team? Machine Operators at Vulcan Steel Products work together to ...

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Steel Machine Operator information

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How much do steel machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 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 is the highest paying machining job?

The highest paying machining jobs often include CNC programmer, CNC supervisor, or precision machinist roles, especially those requiring advanced skills, certifications, and experience. These positions typically offer higher salaries due to technical expertise and responsibility levels in manufacturing environments.

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 chemical manufacturing, where operators may earn higher wages due to the complexity and safety requirements. Roles such as CNC machine operators with advanced certifications or those operating complex, high-precision equipment tend to have higher salaries. Experience, certifications, and working in hazardous or high-demand environments can also increase earning potential.

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, 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 is a machine operator's job salary?

The salary of a steel machine operator typically ranges from $35,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in operating heavy machinery may earn higher wages and benefits.

Is CNC in high demand?

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine operators are in high demand due to the need for precision manufacturing in industries like aerospace, automotive, and metal fabrication. Skilled operators who can program, set up, and maintain CNC machines are especially sought after, often requiring certifications and technical training.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% 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.
Roll Forming Machine Operator

Roll Forming Machine Operator

Skyline Steel

Gilbert, AZ • On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

The Roll Forming Machine Operator is responsible for operating equipment in a roll forming manufacturing environment to produce metal components. This Roll Forming Machine Operator role involves material handling, basic machine operation, and ensuring production quality standards are met. The ideal Roll Forming Machine Operator is mechanically inclined, dependable, and comfortable working in a hands-on industrial setting.


Required Experience & Skills

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly
  • Ability to read and use a tape measure accurately
  • Basic computer skills for machine operation and controls
  • Forklift operation experience
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
  • Reliable attendance and strong work ethic
  • Spanish speaking ability a plus (not required)

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Operate roll forming equipment to produce metal components
  • Monitor machine controls and make basic adjustments as needed
  • Load and move materials using forklift or manual handling
  • Measure and verify product dimensions using a tape measure
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area
  • Follow all safety procedures and company standards
  • Support production goals and work with team members to maintain efficiency

Work Environment

  • Manufacturing/roll forming shop environment
  • Exposure to machinery, metal materials, and noise
  • Physically active role requiring lifting and standing

Company Description

Skyline Steel, Inc. was founded in 1983 as a steel building contractor specializing in covered parking structures. Rick Dancer, President of Skyline Steel since 1987, found that subcontracting portions of the work increased costs and decreased their control over scheduling of all metal building projects.
Faced with this challenge, Skyline Steel set out to perform each task in the process. They gained more equipment and specialists for each phase of the structural steel building process. Skyline Steel became the first company in the southwest to provide complete covered parking structures
Soon, Skyline Steel was building anything from airplane hangers to manufacturing sheds. By 1992, they dominated this segment of the steel building industry and began to take on commercial metal buildings. The commercial building segment is now the largest division in the company and provides the same full service fabrication and erection.
Skyline has advanced to the company it is today by fabrication & erection of Carport's, turnkey Solar Carports & turnkey Solar Super Structures & Heavy Structural/Misc Steel Buildings.