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Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Gary, IN (NOW HIRING)

OSI Group

Production Worker - (Major)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

This role is responsible for entry level general labor while maintaining a safe work environment ... the operator in troubleshooting equipment when necessary. • Be able to perform operator job ...

Avient Corporation

Production Associate

La Porte, IN · On-site

$18/hr

In this entry-level manufacturing position as a Production Associate with Avient you will be ... machinery, checking all controls for adherence to operating/safety procedures. • Notifies ...

Lineage Logistics

Facility Maintenance Technician

Hobart, IN · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Install, maintain, and repair machinery, equipment, physical structures, plumbing, and electrical ... This is an entry-level role with training provided to support skill development and growth within ...

Airspace

Operations Specialist I, Lifesciences

Chicago, IL · Remote

$20 - $24/hr

As a recognized leader in AI and machine learning, our team leverages data and patented technology ... Responsibilities Operating the Airspace Platform * Set up new orders by adhering to both standard ...

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Entry Level Machine Operator information

See Gary, IN salary details

$12

$17

$21

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level machine operator in Gary, IN is $17.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $18.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level machine operator do?

An entry level machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring manufacturing machinery to produce parts or products. They perform routine inspections, follow safety protocols, and may need basic technical skills or certifications to ensure efficient and safe operation in a manufacturing environment.

What is an Entry Level Machine Operator job?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Machine Operator position, and why are they important?

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.

How to get started as a machine operator?

To start as a machine operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and gain basic technical skills. Completing on-the-job training or certification programs can improve job prospects, and familiarity with machinery and safety procedures is essential for success in this role.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry level machine operator jobs typically require some training or certification but may not require prior experience. Employers often provide on-the-job training and look for basic skills, safety awareness, and the ability to learn equipment operation. Gaining relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training or equipment-specific licenses, can improve chances of employment without experience.

What job pays the most at entry level?

Entry-level machine operator positions typically offer moderate wages compared to other entry-level roles. Higher-paying entry-level jobs often include roles in technology, sales, or specialized trades that may require certifications or technical skills. Wages vary by industry, location, and company, but technical roles generally tend to pay more initially than general labor positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Gary, IN? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Gary, IN are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Gary, IN look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Gary, IN are:
What cities near Gary, IN are hiring for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Gary, 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 Gary, IN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,148 per year, or $17.4 per hour.
Maintenance Technician - 3rd shift

Maintenance Technician - 3rd shift

MSI Express, Inc.

Portage, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

MSI Express rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

226th of 395 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Description:
Role Purpose/Position Summary
The Maintenance Technician is responsible for troubleshoot, repair, and maintain equipment in accordance with electrical diagrams, sketches, operation manuals, and/or manufacturer's specifications. This while adhering to safety procedures and/or protocols and established Good Manufacturing Processes to ensure that product integrity and customers' specifications are preserved. The Maintenance Technician will utilize an electronic CMMS system to document work orders for work performed.
Key Accountabilities/Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Performs routine maintenance, such as inspecting drives, or belts, checking fluid levels, replacing filters, or doing other preventive maintenance actions such as lubrication of shafts, bearings, gears, and other parts of the machinery.

  • All work will utilize an electronic CMMS system using a mobile device to document work performed

  • Troubleshoots, repairs, and maintains mechanical and electrical equipment such as: motors, pneumatics, electronic boards, PLC's, touch screens, displays, contactors, conveyors, blending, scaling, filling, cartoning coding/printing, electrical, compressed air, vacuum hydraulic and bulk-filling systems using appropriate tools, precision measuring instruments, or electrical or electronic testing devices.

  • Electricity systems related to production and plant support equipment ranging from single phase to three phase equipment along with voltages ranging from 5VDC - 480 VAC

  • Electrical wiring, relay logic, control and safety circuits

  • Uses checking blueprints, repair manuals, or parts catalogs, as necessary.

  • Teardown and rebuilds gearboxes, clutches, actuators, and other assembles related to equipment repairs

  • Records and reports damaged, worn, or broken parts

  • Thoroughly cleans machines and machine parts, removing parts and reinstalling as necessary

  • Proficient in using all hand tools, power tools, shop equipment such as: drill press, surface grinders, torch, plasma cutter, pipe threader, breaks, presses, calipers, micrometers, other measuring instruments, and test equipment

  • Fabricates parts, guarding, and parts modifications for equipment repairs and improvements

  • Welds different grades of metal for repairs and fabrication using different plant welding techniques (i.e. MIG, TIG, and Arc)

  • Troubleshoots HVAC systems as needed

  • Follows all company policies including but not limited to general manufacturing and safety practices

  • This position has responsibility for Food Safety and Quality within their influence. The associate in this job has the responsibility to report, in a timely manner, Food Safety and Quality problems to personnel with authority to initiate action on those problems

  • Train junior or new technicians on equipment, procedures and troubleshooting practices

  • Trains operators or other support staff in best practices, operation, and setup of equipment.

  • Completes Preventative maintenance, product changeovers, corrective and breakdown maintenance as requested.

  • Perform any other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications (education, skills, knowledge, and abilities)
Entry Level and Above
  • Ability to write work orders, parts requests, shift logs, routine reports and correspondence

  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance manuals

  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, crouch, stoop, reach, stretch, step, climb and/or sit frequently or through the duration of the shift

  • Required to reach with hands and arms, climb, or maintain balance

  • Ability to use ladders and/or climb stairs

  • Have appropriate eye, hand and foot coordination to properly execute tasks

  • PC or tablet competency, and ability to use handheld devices

  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly; and occasionally lift and or move up to 100 pounds with or without assistance

  • Minimum of High School Diploma required

  • A minimum of 2 years of experience in an industrial setting required. Preferably in the food manufacturing industry

Mid-Level and Above
  • 2 - 6 years of experience in an industrial setting, in similar role required, preferably in the food manufacturing industry

  • 2-year technical or community college degree preferred

  • Experience with electrical controls

  • Experience in maintaining and troubleshooting electrical and electronic experience preferred

  • Basic to intermediate knowledge of PLC troubleshooting preferred

Advanced Level
  • 7 years of experience in an industrial setting, in similar role required. Preferably in the food industry

  • 2-year AAS degree preferred

  • Advanced skills with troubleshooting PLC's preferred

  • Electrician's license preferred

  • Welding experience/certification preferred

  • Metal fabrication experience preferred

MSI Express is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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