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Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Columbus, IN

Aerotek

Mold Setter

Edinburgh, IN

$48K - $58K/yr

Collaborate with machine operators, technicians, and maintenance personnel to resolve issues and ... You work in a production setting that supports both entry-level and experienced team members, with ...

Aerotek

Mold Setter

Edinburgh, IN

$48K - $58K/yr

Collaborate with machine operators, technicians, and maintenance personnel to resolve issues and ... You work in a production setting that supports both entry-level and experienced team members, with ...

Cummins

Electrician - Manufacturing

Columbus, IN · On-site

... safe machine environment. Electrical System Troubleshooting - Analyzes an electrical control system to resolve and repair electrical issues to return the system to proper operating conditions.

Rural King

Mechanic I

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

Whether you are starting an entry-level position or joining with professional experience, Rural ... machines for repairs and deliveries. * Interpret and comprehend operating and repair manuals ...

All JobsMachine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Columbus, IN

Entry Level Machine Operator information

See Columbus, IN salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do entry level machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level machine operator in Columbus, IN is $16.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $17.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level machine operator?

An Entry Level Machine Operator is responsible for running and monitoring machinery in a manufacturing or production setting. They ensure machines operate efficiently, perform basic maintenance, and inspect products for quality. Training is typically provided on-site, and the role requires attention to detail and the ability to follow safety guidelines. This position is ideal for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in a technical or industrial field.

How to get started as an entry level machine operator?

To start as an entry-level machine operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and gain basic technical skills. Many employers provide on-the-job training, but having familiarity with machinery, safety procedures, and basic math can be beneficial. Certifications in equipment operation or safety standards can improve job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level machine operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Machine Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes basic computer or measurement tools, such as calipers, is often required. Strong work ethic, reliability, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help you adapt and excel in fast-paced environments. These skills ensure the operator can safely and efficiently produce quality products while minimizing downtime or errors.

What does a typical workday look like for an entry level machine operator?

A typical day for an entry level machine operator involves setting up and monitoring machines, inspecting products for quality, and troubleshooting minor issues that may arise during production. You’ll likely work alongside a team of operators and supervisors, following established schedules and safety procedures to ensure smooth operations on the manufacturing floor. Collaboration is often necessary for resolving problems or improving workflow, and you may be cross-trained on different equipment over time. This hands-on experience provides a strong foundation for future advancement into specialized or supervisory roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, IN? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, IN are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, IN look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Columbus, IN are:
What cities near Columbus, IN are hiring for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Columbus, IN with the most Entry Level Machine Operator job openings:
Entry Level Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Machine Operator job openings in Columbus, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,786 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Machine Operator-Indianapolis,Indiana

Curtiss-Wright

Needham, IN

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Machine Operator *Entry Level - Full Training Provided*
The Machine Operator is responsible for the safe operation of shot peening equipment including feeding materials for processing, adjusting settings, performing minor repairs, and pulling finished product from the line.
The successful candidate will be full trained to be able to operate the shot peening equipment appropriately.
Location: Indianapolis, IN
Shift: Monday-Thursday, 5:00am-4:00pm (with some Friday work)
Hourly Rate: $19-$21/hour
Please note that the hourly range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in IN. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.
We Take Care of Our People
Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase Plan I Inclusive & Supportive Culture *
Your Challenge
  • Accurately follow and interpret instructions and drawings
  • Complete production and test documentation
  • Operate and maintain equipment with minimal supervision
  • Meet production routing times on jobs for which training has been received

What You Bring
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required
  • Ability to operate equipment, read and interpret process worksheets
  • Effectively communicate with others
  • Understands the importance of product quality and compliance to health and safety procedures

Who We Are
Our Values
Environmental, Social and Governance
Curtiss-Wright Surface Technologies ("CWST") is the group name for the collective technical services provided by the legacy companies of Metal Improvement Company("MIC"), E/M Coating Services, Everlube Products, FW Gartner Thermal Spraying, Para Tech Coating, Component Coating & Repair Services, Bolt's Metallizing, Keronite, and IMR Test Labs.
CWST is a Division of Curtiss-Wright Corporation, a global innovative company that delivers highly engineered, critical function products and services to the commercial, industrial, defense and energy markets.
To learn more, please visit us at Surface Treatment and Metal Improvement | CWST
*Please note, benefits are country specific and may vary from location to location.
#LI-BR
No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.
Compliance Statement
This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.
Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition.
For US Applicants: EEO is The Law - click here for more information.
If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.

What Curtiss-Wright employees say

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About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

Social media

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