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Fiberglass Machine Operator Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN

Production Operator

Grabill, IN · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Machine Operators are responsible for taking the batches of mixed materials and processing it ... Ensure proper fiberglass is set up and maintained according to schedule. * Efficiently change ...

Ability to understand and follow Standard Operating Procedures, Work Instructions, and Engineering ... Previous manufacturing and/or machinery experience preferred * Must be able to communicate and work ...

Assembler

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Ability to understand and follow Standard Operating Procedures, Work Instructions, and Engineering ... Previous manufacturing and/or machinery experience preferred * Must be able to communicate and work ...

Ability to understand and follow Standard Operating Procedures, Work Instructions, and Engineering ... Previous manufacturing and/or machinery experience preferred * Must be able to communicate and work ...

Fiberglass Machine Operator information

See Fort Wayne, IN salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do fiberglass machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for fiberglass machine operator in Fort Wayne, IN is $17.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a fiberglass machine operator do?

A Fiberglass Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machines that manufacture fiberglass products or components. Their duties typically include setting up equipment, monitoring production processes, ensuring product quality, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during operation. They also perform routine maintenance on machines and adhere to safety guidelines to prevent accidents. Fiberglass Machine Operators often work in manufacturing plants and must be able to read and interpret technical documents related to their equipment.

What are some common challenges faced by fiberglass machine operators and how can they be managed?

Fiberglass Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, managing machine malfunctions, and adhering to safety protocols due to exposure to fibers and resins. Staying vigilant about routine machine maintenance and closely following safety procedures can help minimize these issues. Additionally, clear communication with other team members, such as quality inspectors and maintenance technicians, ensures quick resolution of problems and smooth workflow. Ongoing training is also essential for keeping up with new equipment and safety standards.

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

To thrive as a Fiberglass Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machine operation, safety protocols, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with fiberglass molding machines, cutting tools, measurement devices, and sometimes OSHA safety certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving abilities are important soft skills for this position. These skills ensure precise production, minimize safety risks, and maintain consistent product quality in a manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Fiberglass Machine Operator vs Fiberglass Laminator?

AspectFiberglass Machine OperatorFiberglass Laminator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, some certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plant, operating machineryWorkshop or factory, applying laminates
Job DutiesSet up and operate fiberglass manufacturing machinesApply resin and fiberglass layers manually or with tools

Both roles are essential in fiberglass manufacturing, with the machine operator focusing on machinery operation and setup, while the laminator handles manual application of fiberglass layers. They often work together in the same industry settings, but their specific tasks and skills differ.

What are popular job titles related to Fiberglass Machine Operator jobs in Fort Wayne, IN?

For Fiberglass Machine Operator jobs in Fort Wayne, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fiberglass Machine Operator jobs in Fort Wayne, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Fiberglass Machine Operator jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:

What cities near Fort Wayne, IN are hiring for Fiberglass Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Fort Wayne, IN with the most Fiberglass Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Fiberglass Machine Operator job openings in Fort Wayne, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,322 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

FIBERGLASS HAND LAY-UP OPERATOR

Ligonier, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Summary- Operate or tend hand lay-up operations to manufacture muliti-layer composite tanks.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following Other duties may be assigned.
1. Double check all equipment prior to each part manufactured. Make sure parts are clean and free of any debris, etc.
2. Ensure adequate supply of raw materials to include resin, hardener and glass cloth to complete part to be manufactured.
3. Ensure that proper mix of resin and hardener meets specifications at all times during hand lay-up operations.
4. Ensures all remaining layers of tank - chemical veil, chop and gel coat are applied to meet specifications.
5. Rolls out each part layer as required to meet specification.
6. Maintains proper thickness at all stages of part, especially careful at tank openings to ensure proper fit to other parts.
7. Responsible to assist attaching top, bottom, manway various inlets and outlets to tank shell after shell is completed.
8. Responsible to ensure any tank joint integrity, both inside and outside the tank.
9. Knowledge to safety operate overhead cranes, fork trucks and yard crane.
10. Operate or tend chop gun and gel coat operations to make various parts as required.
11. Complete quality control and regulatory paperwork as applicable.
12. Responsible to keep work area clean and free of debris on a daily basis.
Qualification:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Skills & Knowledge:
1. Problem sensitivity - the ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
2. Knowledge of fiberglass production machinery to include chop guns, gel coaters, etc.
3. Problem solving - the ability to keep fiberglass production machinery running with basic maintenance knowledge.
4. Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
5. Ability to lift 50 lbs. with frequent lifting and/or carrying objects weighing 50 lbs.
Education and/or Experience:
Actual fiberglass production experience of at least 3 years is essential. High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or two to three years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Language Skills:
1. Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence and memos.
2. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information one-on-one and to other employees of the organization. Bilingual skills are a plus.
Mathematical Skills:
Ability to add and subtract two-digit numbers and to multiply and divide with 10's and 100's. Ability to perform these operations using units' weight, measurement, volume and distance.
Reasoning Ability:
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardizing situations.