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Helper Machine Operator Jobs in Elkhart, IN (NOW HIRING)

Assembler

South Bend, IN

$16 - $19.25/hr

Operator must clear stoppages in tracks and dies of all machines, change taps, full lubricant or ... What will help you thrive in this role? Manufacturing experience 2-3 years. Manufacturing ...

Assembler

South Bend, IN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Operator must clear stoppages in tracks and dies of all machines, change taps, full lubricant or ... What will help you thrive in this role? Manufacturing experience 2-3 years. Manufacturing ...

Assembler

South Bend, IN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Operator must clear stoppages in tracks and dies of all machines, change taps, full lubricant or ... What will help you thrive in this role? Manufacturing experience 2-3 years. Manufacturing ...

PRESS OPERATOR JOB SUMMARY Press Operators are responsible for operating molding machines at a pace ... They keep an accurate count of parts, help keep the plant clean, and complete any needed paperwork.

PRESS OPERATOR JOB SUMMARY Press Operators are responsible for operating molding machines at a pace ... They keep an accurate count of parts, help keep the plant clean, and complete any needed paperwork.

EFP - 3rd shift GeneralProduction

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

PRESS OPERATOR JOB SUMMARY Press Operators are responsible for operating molding machines at a pace ... They keep an accurate count of parts, help keep the plant clean, and complete any needed paperwork.

This is not an entry-level machine operator position. We are looking for someone who enjoys solving ... For more than 60 years, Hayes Design Co. has helped businesses, schools, healthcare organizations ...

Sewing Operator

Elkhart, IN

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Sewing or manufacturing experience is helpful, but not required * If you've done repetitive, hands-on work before (assembly, production, machine operation), you'll likely be a strong fit What to ...

Sewing Operator

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Sewing or manufacturing experience is helpful, but not required * If you've done repetitive, hands-on work before (assembly, production, machine operation), you'll likely be a strong fit What to ...

Showing results 21-40

Helper Machine Operator information

See Elkhart, IN salary details

$11

$17

$21

How much do helper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for helper machine operator in Elkhart, IN is $17.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a helper machine operator do?

As a Helper Machine Operator, your daily tasks usually involve assisting the main machine operator by preparing materials, loading and unloading machines, and monitoring equipment for proper operation. You may also be responsible for basic maintenance, cleaning the work area, and reporting any issues to supervisors. Collaboration with other team members, such as quality control staff and maintenance technicians, is common to ensure efficient production and adherence to safety standards.

What is a helper machine operator?

Helper Machine Operators assist main machine operators in manufacturing and production settings. Their duties typically include setting up machinery, loading materials, monitoring machine performance, and performing basic maintenance or cleaning. They also help ensure products meet quality standards and may record production data. This role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently. No formal education is usually required, but on-the-job training is common.

What is the difference between Helper Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectHelper Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; certification or training often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, construction sitesFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with setup, cleaning, and basic operationOperate machinery independently, monitor processes, troubleshoot

The Helper Machine Operator typically assists with basic tasks and supports the Machine Operator, who handles more complex machinery operation. Both roles are common in manufacturing environments and require similar credentials, but the Machine Operator has more responsibility and independence in operating equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a helper machine operator?

To thrive as a Helper Machine Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with common manufacturing tools, basic computer systems, and sometimes forklift certification is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in supporting machine operators and maintaining workflow. These skills ensure safe operations, minimize downtime, and contribute to efficient production in manufacturing environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Elkhart, IN? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Elkhart, IN are:
What are popular job titles related to Helper Machine Operator jobs in Elkhart, IN? For Helper Machine Operator jobs in Elkhart, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Helper Machine Operator jobs in Elkhart, IN look for? The top searched job categories for Helper Machine Operator jobs in Elkhart, IN are:
What cities near Elkhart, IN are hiring for Helper Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Elkhart, IN with the most Helper Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Helper Machine Operator job openings in Elkhart, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,821 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

2nd Shift Operator A Consumer Products

Carpenter Co.

Elkhart, IN

$23.93 - $24.85/hr

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago


Carpenter Co. rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Do you want to be part of a team that aspires to improve the quality of life for others? Are you interested in efficient manufacturing processes that promote sustainability? Do you feel a sense of accomplishment in a job well done? At Carpenter Co., we challenge our employees to learn from and inspire one another – all levels of the company collaborate, communicate and constantly improve to achieve shared success. If that sounds like an environment in which you will thrive, Carpenter Co. could be a great fit for you!

Carpenter Co. has an immediate openings for Machine Operators in the pillow department on 2nd shift [2:00pm - 10:00pm] at our Elkhart, Indiana foam manufacturing plant. These positions are responsible for operating assigned equipment per standards and/or coordinate line production to ensure all lines have what they need for orders to be produced in a timely manner with minimal downtime. The starting hourly pay rate for this position is $23.93 to $24.85 per hour. There is an additional $2.00 per hour shift premium for working 2nd shift hours.

Carpenter Co. employees are committed to working hard to ensure production goals are met while maintaining operations excellence. The successful candidate will be expected to work within a normal production environment with interaction and communication with fellow employees, operator/lead person and area supervisor. This positions may also involve performing other positions in department on the line rotating within the department.

Additional Responsibilities of the Pillow Department Machine Operator will include:

  • Operate the holepunch
  • Operator the stockinet
  • Perform quality checks on materials and finished goods
  • Operate the pillow stuffer
  • Zip and bag pillows
  • Fold and label boxes
  • Run tape machine
  • Stack finished goods boxes
  • Run labels
  • Place scrap foam pieces in the baler
  • Help with monthly inventory
  • Will complete daily production reporting

    Skills/ Requirements

    • High School Diploma or General Education Degree required.
    • 1 year of manufacturing experience Preferred.
    • Must be able to work at a fast pace
    • Must be able to stand the full work shift (8 to 10 hours)
    • Basic computer knowledge
    • Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds throughout the shift without assistance
    • Must be able to communicate effectively
    • Must be able to work in a team environment and assist co-workers
    • Must be able to read and interpret a tape measure, preferred

    Carpenter Co. conducts pre-employment drug testing on all applicants that receive and accept a written offer of employment.

    Carpenter Co. offers a comprehensive benefits package including excellent health insurance, generous profit sharing plan, and much more. We offer long-term career opportunities for our employees in a stable industry and clean working environment. We also offer tuition reimbursement to our employees after 1 year of service. Our Elkhart Branch employees average over 10 years of service with the company, and we'd like for you to join us! To learn more, check us out at www.carpenter.com.

    2nd Shift Hours: Typically 2:00PM - 10:00PM, Monday - Friday, Overtime will be required during upticks in production


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