1

Machine Helper Jobs in Elkhart, IN (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator Tapering - 1st Shift

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Our technology is helping feed the growing population, supplying the world with more reliable ... Load machine programs, as needed, specific to product orders * Process material in accordance with ...

Mill & Lathe Machine Set Up

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$21.25 - $27/hr

Help lead the day-to-day activities of the machine shop and keep work moving to schedule * Train, mentor, and support machinists and operators on proper setup, operation, inspection, and machining ...

CNC Mill Operator/Set-up

Warsaw, IN · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

Employee Assistance Program Are you a CNC Milling Machinist who enjoys problemsolving, tight tolerances, and seeing your work make a real difference? Join our medical manufacturing team and help ...

... mile to help their business succeed. Position: Machine Operator Job Summary We are looking for a Machine Operator to work directly under our Floor Supervisor. This position will gain first-hand ...

Cleaning kitchen appliances and machines * Helping other team members to unload and store deliveries * Assist other staff members with tasks when the need arises * Adhere to food safety procedures ...

Dishwasher

South Bend, IN · On-site

$14/hr

Cleaning kitchen appliances and machines * Helping other team members to unload and store deliveries * Assist other staff members with tasks when the need arises * Adhere to food safety procedures ...

Employee Assistance Program Are you a CNC Milling Machinist who enjoys problemsolving, tight tolerances, and seeing your work make a real difference? Join our medical manufacturing team and help ...

Machining - Carbide Machinist I

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

... help our customers succeed. The Brazer I / Machinist I is an entry-level manufacturing position ... Machine components to specified dimensions and tolerances using appropriate tooling and measuring ...

Dishwasher

Granger, IN · On-site

$11.75 - $15/hr

Cleaning kitchen appliances and machines * Helping other team members to unload and store deliveries * Assist other staff members with tasks when the need arises * Adhere to food safety procedures ...

Dishwasher

Granger, IN

$11.75 - $15/hr

Cleaning kitchen appliances and machines * Helping other team members to unload and store deliveries * Assist other staff members with tasks when the need arises * Adhere to food safety procedures ...

Fab Assistant 2nd Shift

Bristol, IN · On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

SUMMARY Entry level position with the possibility to advance to Machine Operator or Skilled Machine Operator as positions become available. The Metal Fabrication Helper should be energetic with a ...

Fab Assistant

Bristol, IN · On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

SUMMARY Entry level position with the possibility to advance to Machine Operator or Skilled Machine Operator as positions become available. The Metal Fabrication Helper should be energetic with a ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Helper information

See Elkhart, IN salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do machine helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine helper in Elkhart, IN is $16.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by machine helpers in a manufacturing environment and how can they be addressed?

Machine Helpers often encounter challenges such as keeping up with fast-paced production lines, handling repetitive tasks, and ensuring safety around heavy machinery. To address these, it's important to stay attentive, follow safety protocols, and communicate effectively with machine operators and supervisors. Developing good organizational habits and being proactive about machine maintenance can also help prevent breakdowns and maintain efficiency. Training and teamwork are key for overcoming these challenges and ensuring a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Machine Helper vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine HelperMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; often additional certifications or training
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, construction sitesFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing and constructionPrimarily in manufacturing, production, and industrial sectors
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist machine operators, prepare materials, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, monitor production, ensure safety and quality

In summary, a Machine Helper assists Machine Operators by preparing materials and performing basic tasks, while Machine Operators are responsible for running and managing machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and required skills.

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

To excel as a Machine Helper, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and possibly forklift or OSHA certifications is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe and efficient machine operation, minimize downtime, and contribute to a productive work environment.

What is a machine helper?

Machine Helpers are workers who assist machine operators in manufacturing or production settings. They are responsible for supporting the setup, operation, and maintenance of machinery, as well as ensuring materials are loaded correctly and finished products are removed efficiently. Their duties often include cleaning equipment, monitoring machine performance, and helping with minor repairs or adjustments. Machine Helpers play a vital role in keeping production lines running smoothly and safely.
What cities near Elkhart, IN are hiring for Machine Helper jobs? Cities near Elkhart, IN with the most Machine Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Helper job openings in Elkhart, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,725 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Machine Operator - 1st or 2nd shift

HBM Holdings Company

South Bend, IN

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Company Overview:

Schafer Industriesis a premier supplier of off-highway axles and differentiated precision gearing solutions. Established in 1934, Schafer Industries has locations in South Bend, IN, Roscoe, IL, Fredericktown, OH and Blacklick, OH. Schafer Industries is one of the few manufacturers of integrated axle solutions in the off-highway electric vehicle market. Schafer serves customers in a variety of end markets including off-highway vehicles, recreational vehicles, aerospace, defense, oil & gas, material handling, powertrain, electric mobility, heavy duty trucking, agriculture, and construction. Our mission is to leverage world class capabilities to deliver superior products and services to maximize the value for our customers, employees, shareholders, and communities.

Why Work at Schafer Industries?

  • We are a growth-oriented company with a diversified customer base.
  • We are committed to a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
  • You will enjoy a collaborative work environment where your talents and opinions matter.
  • We provide training as well as opportunities to work on projects in support of your career development.
  • You will quickly see your impact when working with the team.
  • We live our values of Safety, Integrity, Responsibility to Others, Customer Focus, Continuous Improvement and Accountability in all that we do.
  • We have competitive pay and benefits to include 401(k) match and tuition reimbursement.

Operate a variety of CNC Machines, deburring machines, polishers, parts washers, and sandblasters. Use portable grinders, files and other hand tools to remove burrs, pits, and sharp edges from a variety of machined parts.

Essential Functions:

Operates assigned machinery to fabricate parts to the required specifications by:

  • Reading work orders and specification sheets before starting the machine.
  • Properly powering up and down the machine.
  • Loading and unloading parts.
  • Ensuring proper tooling for each machine.

Responsible for supporting the Schafer Business Process by:

  • Maintaining and continuously improving productivity of assigned machines.
  • Continuously looking at tool life and new tooling to cut costs on tools.
  • Reducing downtime of machine setups.
  • Maintain the 6S program in assigned area.

Contributes to the overall effectiveness of the company by:

  • Channeling problems and/or complaints to appropriate person for resolution.
  • Supporting all Schafer policies and procedures.
  • Reporting to Supervisor when assignments cannot be completed.
  • Providing input and assistance with the implementation of quality improvements.
  • Resolving problems.
  • Performing other job-related duties as required.
  • Helping evaluate job applicant's knowledge for the cell prior to Schafer hiring.
  • Passing along vital information in the logbook for subsequent shifts.
  • Training new personnel in the operation of assigned machines.
  • Assisting and/or training in other lathe areas as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

  1. Requires physical ability and stamina to perform the essential functions of the position, including the ability to walk, stand, lift, carry up to 50 pounds, push, kneel, bend, stoop, reach over and under waist level, twist for extended periods of time on cement or other hard surfaces, etc.
  2. Demonstrates the verbal and written communication skills necessary to complete forms and take messages in a legible, accurate manner.
  3. Must be able to communicate in English.
  4. Ability to use a computer

Working Conditions:

Air conditioned/heated manufacturing facility with possible exposure to noise; dust; fumes; physical, chemical, and biohazards; solvents, oils, and detergents.