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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Indianapolis, IN (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

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 ...

Machine Operator *Entry Level - Full Training Provided* The Machine Operator is responsible for the safe operation of shot peening equipment includingfeeding materials for processing, adjusting ...

About the role Utility Operator is an entry level position, which is a great opportunity for individuals looking to work in the power industry. Working under the direction of the Supplemental Waste ...

About the role Utility Operator is an entry level position, which is a great opportunity for individuals looking to work in the power industry. Working under the direction of the Supplemental Waste ...

About the role Utility Operator is an entry level position, which is a great opportunity for individuals looking to work in the power industry. Working under the direction of the Supplemental Waste ...

About the role Utility Operator is an entry level position, which is a great opportunity for individuals looking to work in the power industry. Working under the direction of the Supplemental Waste ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Operator information

See Indianapolis, IN salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Indianapolis, IN is $16.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level operator?

Entry level operators are employees who typically work in manufacturing, production, or industrial settings and are responsible for running machinery, monitoring equipment, and ensuring products meet quality standards. They are usually new to the field and receive on-the-job training to learn how to operate specific machines or processes. Their duties may include starting and stopping equipment, doing basic maintenance, reporting malfunctions, and keeping work areas clean and safe. Entry level operators play a key role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn safety and operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial machinery, control systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are often required or highly valued. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations in manufacturing or industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level operators and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Operators often face challenges such as mastering complex machinery, adapting to shift work, and maintaining consistent productivity in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions, and seek guidance from experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and being proactive about safety procedures can also help new operators quickly become effective and confident in their roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectEntry Level OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing lines, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles across manufacturing and industrial sectorsOperational roles in manufacturing, processing, and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Operator and a Machine Operator lies in their experience and specialization. Entry Level Operators typically have basic training and perform general operational tasks, while Machine Operators often have specific technical skills and certifications to handle particular machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and share similar work settings, but Machine Operators usually require more technical expertise.

How to become an entry level operator with no experience?

To become an entry level operator with no experience, focus on gaining basic technical skills through online courses or vocational training, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training if applicable. Many employers also consider candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training to develop necessary skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Indianapolis, IN?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Indianapolis, IN are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Indianapolis, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Indianapolis, IN are:

What cities near Indianapolis, IN are hiring for Entry Level Operator jobs?

Cities near Indianapolis, IN with the most Entry Level Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Indianapolis, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,113 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 494 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.

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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

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