ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Temporary Machine Operator Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

American Workforce Group

Forklift Operator

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$20/hr

Status: Full-Time, Temp-to-Hire path. Requirements for Stand-Up Forklift Operator: * Machinery Background: Verifiable prior experience operating stand-up forklifts, reach trucks, or order selectors ...

New

Aerotek

Sanding Technician

Sumner, WA

$23.92 - $24.40/hr

Experience operating saws, CNC machinery, production equipment, or similar manufacturing equipment ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: * Medical ...

New

CRH

Manufacturing Associate

Tacoma, WA

$20 - $25/hr

Job Summary Responsible for assisting designated machine operator or production team in a variety ... Other duties and responsibilities related to the nature of the job may be assigned on a temporary ...

New

University of Washington

Carpenter (temporary

Seattle, WA

$24.75 - $33.50/hr

Operate machinery such as forklifts, scissor-lifts, and high rangers. * Load and unload materials ... Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license may be required. Equivalent education and/or ...

Uw

Carpenter (temporary

Seattle, WA

$24.75 - $33.50/hr

Operate machinery such as forklifts, scissor-lifts, and high rangers. * Load and unload materials ... Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license may be required. Equivalent education and/or ...

Aerotek

Cnc Mill Operator

Enumclaw, WA

$28.78/hr

Proficiency in operating multi-axis machines. * Knowledge of machining steel materials ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: * Medical ...

Aerotek

Cnc Machinist

Fife, WA

$22 - $40/hr

... operating and setting up multi-axis lathes and 4-5 axis mills to machine forged and complex ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: * Medical ...

Aerotek

Production Worker

Puyallup, WA

$21/hr

Responsibilities * Assist panel machine operators with stacking, organizing, and packaging ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: * Medical ...

Aerotek

Cnc Lathe Machinist

Fife, WA

$22 - $40/hr

Adjust machine parameters, tooling, and setups to optimize cycle times and part quality ... Hands-on experience operating multi-axis CNC lathes. * Proficiency working with 4-5 axis CNC mills.

New

Verstela

Production Associate - Swing

Seattle, WA

$21.65/hr

This temp-to-hire, Production Associate a role at a company that produces rubber sealing solutions ... machine operators and production teams. This is a supportive, team-oriented environment with ...

King County, WA

Heavy Equipment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$41.75 - $50.68/hr

... temporary or Special Duty Assignment for eligible internal candidates within the next six (6) ... This position requires the ability to work with heavy equipment and machinery on uneven slopes ...

Aerotek

CNC Mill Machinist

Tacoma, WA

$20 - $40/hr

Set up and operate CNC mill machine tools to produce precision metal parts to specification. * Use ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: * Medical ...

Aerotek

Material Control Operator

Auburn, WA · On-site

$22.50 - $24.50/hr

Perform basic equipment preventative maintenance and clean-up to keep work areas and machinery in ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: * Medical ...

Aerotek

Cnc Lathe Machinist

Tukwila, WA

$30/hr

Troubleshoot machine performance issues and assist with routine equipment upkeep. * Verify ... Required Qualifications * Previous experience setting up and operating CNC lathes in a ...

American Scaffold, LLC

Laborer

Bremerton, WA

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Building and taking down scaffolding and temporary structures * Operating and tending machinery and heavy equipment * Following instructions from supervisors and implementing construction plans

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsMachine Operator JobsTemporary Machine Operator JobsTemporary Machine Operator Jobs in Tacoma, WA

Temporary Machine Operator information

See Tacoma, WA salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do temporary machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary machine operator in Tacoma, WA is $19.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary machine operator?

Temporary Machine Operators are workers who are hired for a short-term period to operate machinery in manufacturing, production, or warehouse settings. Their responsibilities typically include setting up machines, monitoring their operation, making minor adjustments, and ensuring quality standards are met. Temporary roles often fill in during busy seasons, employee absences, or special projects. These positions usually require basic mechanical aptitude and adherence to safety protocols. Prior experience operating similar machines is often preferred but not always required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Machine Operator, you generally need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes experience with specific equipment or certifications like OSHA safety training are commonly required. Reliability, adaptability, and strong teamwork skills help individuals excel in this fast-paced and dynamic role. These skills and qualifications are vital for maintaining productivity, ensuring safety, and contributing to smooth operations on the production floor.

What are the typical challenges faced by temporary machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Temporary machine operators often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new equipment and workflows, as assignments may vary between different facilities. It's common to have a limited onboarding period, so being proactive in asking questions and seeking clarification from supervisors is essential. Another challenge can be understanding and complying with safety protocols unique to each workplace. Building strong communication with permanent staff members and remaining attentive to training resources can help overcome these hurdles and ensure success in the role.

What is the difference between Temporary Machine Operator vs Permanent Machine Operator?

AspectTemporary Machine OperatorPermanent Machine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and basic machine operation certificationsSame as temporary, often with additional certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentShort-term assignments, often in manufacturing or production plantsLong-term employment in similar settings
Employment StatusTemporary, often through staffing agenciesFull-time or part-time, directly employed by the company
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate machinery, follow safety protocols, and perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot issues

The main difference between a Temporary Machine Operator and a Permanent Machine Operator lies in employment duration and stability. Temporary Machine Operators work on short-term assignments, often through staffing agencies, while Permanent Machine Operators are employed directly by the company with ongoing roles. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but the employment structure and job security differ.

How much do you get paid as a temporary machine operator?

Temporary machine operators typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and industry. Overtime pay and benefits may be available for longer shifts or higher-skilled roles, and certifications in equipment operation can influence pay rates.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Tacoma, WA?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Tacoma, WA are:

What cities near Tacoma, WA are hiring for Temporary Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Tacoma, WA with the most Temporary Machine Operator job openings:

Temporary Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Machine Operator job openings in Tacoma, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,623 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Forklift Operator

American Workforce Group

Puyallup, WA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Rise to New Heights: Experienced Stand-Up Forklift Operator (Reach Truck) Wanted!


Description for Stand-Up Forklift Operator:


  • Precision Lift Operation: Safely and efficiently operate a stand-up forklift (reach truck) to pick, stage, stack, and retrieve pallets inside high-density storage bays.
  • Freight Logistics: Handle, transport, and organize raw materials and finished goods seamlessly throughout active warehouse zones.
  • Multi-Environment Tracking: Execute shipping and inventory moves primarily inside ambient dry storage layouts, adapting flexibly to manage stock on the cold-chain freezer side as needed.
  • Pallet Security & Audits: Inspect incoming load configurations for structural stability, wrapping integrity, and accuracy against order sheets before moving products.
  • Safety Compliance: Adhere strictly to the facility's zero-shortcut safety parameters, execute daily vehicle inspections, and monitor pedestrian safety paths carefully.

Details for Stand-Up Forklift Operator:


  • Pay Rate: $20.00 / hour.
  • Schedule: Monday – Friday (Enjoy a consistent weekday routine with your weekends completely free!).
  • Shift Hours: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Stable, full-time daytime hours).
  • Location: Puyallup, WA facility.
  • Status: Full-Time, Temp-to-Hire path.

Requirements for Stand-Up Forklift Operator:


  • Machinery Background: Verifiable prior experience operating stand-up forklifts, reach trucks, or order selectors is required for this position.
  • Industrial Background: Prior experience working inside a fast-paced warehouse, distribution center, or cold-storage manufacturing layout.
  • Physical Conditioning: Heavy manual labor endurance—must be fully capable of lifting and maneuvering 75 lbs+ regularly all shift.
  • Active Flexibility: Ability to comfortably handle continuous physical tasks, including standing, stooping, bending, and pulling heavy pallet freight.
  • Safety First Mindset: A proactive focus on warehouse floor protection, strict adherence to plant speed limits, and defensive driving habits.

Benefits After Hire:


  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan options with company matching tracks.
  • WA State Paid Sick Leave benefits.
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) accruals and Paid Holidays.
  • AWG SERVICES ARE ALWAYS 100% FREE TO JOB SEEKERS!

To Apply:

???? Email your resume directly for immediate consideration: piercejobs@americanworkforcegroup.com

???? Call our recruiting office today: (253) 650-8800


???? Office Hours: Monday – Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM


???? Apply online: www.americanworkforcegroup.com

Our Mission Statement: “We positively impact people and our community by placing motivated qualified individuals at great places to work.”

American Workforce Group "Built on Relationships, Backed by Integrity"