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Machine Operative Jobs in Bloomington, IN (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator Trainee

Bloomington, IN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Printpack Bloomington is looking for candidates to fill machine operator trainee positions in the Finishing Department. While manufacturing experience is helpful for this role, training is available ...

Machine Operator Trainee

Bloomington, IN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Printpack Bloomington is looking for candidates to fill machine operator trainee positions in the Finishing Department. While manufacturing experience is helpful for this role, training is available ...

Machine Operator

Trafalgar, IN · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

About The Role Fisher Contracting & Excavating, a subsidiary of Arbor Homes, is currently looking to hire multiple Operators to work throughout Central Indiana. What's In It For You? Base salary ...

Machine Operator

Trafalgar, IN · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

About The Role Fisher Contracting & Excavating, a subsidiary of Arbor Homes, is currently looking to hire multiple Operators to work throughout Central Indiana. What's In It For You? • Base salary ...

Warm Press Forge Operator

Columbus, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

The Forge Operator operates mechanical hot (Hub and CVJ) forge presses or cold (ironing and ... Operate presses or other forging machines to perform hot or cold forging by flattening ...

Cold Press Forge Operator

Columbus, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

The Forge Operator operates mechanical hot (Hub and CVJ) forge presses or cold (ironing and ... Operate presses or other forging machines to perform hot or cold forging by flattening ...

CNC Operator / Machinist

Bedford, IN · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

This position is responsible for operating and setting up CNC equipment to produce high-quality ... Perform machine setups, tooling changes, and offset adjustments * Read and interpret blueprints ...

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Machine Operative information

See Bloomington, IN salary details

$12

$24

$44

How much do machine operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operative in Bloomington, IN is $24.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $25.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a CNC job a good career?

A CNC operator job involves programming and operating computer numerical control machines to manufacture parts, requiring technical skills and attention to detail. It can offer stable employment, opportunities for skill development, and potential for advancement in manufacturing industries.

What are some common challenges machine operatives face and how can they be addressed?

Machine operatives often encounter challenges such as maintaining productivity while ensuring quality and safety standards are met. Operating complex machinery may also involve troubleshooting minor technical issues, which requires attention to detail and quick problem-solving. To address these challenges, employers typically provide comprehensive training, encourage open communication with supervisors, and foster a team environment where operatives can share knowledge and support each other. Staying proactive with routine maintenance and adhering to safety protocols also helps minimize disruptions and ensures a smoother workflow.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically involve high-level skills, specialized expertise, or significant experience, such as certain medical professionals, senior corporate executives, or highly skilled consultants. These roles often require advanced certifications, extensive training, or working in high-demand industries like finance, law, or technology. Such positions are usually project-based, freelance, or involve significant responsibilities and long hours.

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

To thrive as a Machine Operative, you need a good understanding of machinery operation, basic mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with production line equipment, safety protocols, and occasionally certifications like forklift operation or health and safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work well in a team are standout soft skills in this position. These skills and qualities ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production output in manufacturing environments.

What are machine operatives?

Machine operatives are workers who operate, monitor, and maintain machinery in manufacturing, production, or warehouse settings. They are responsible for ensuring equipment runs smoothly, performing routine checks, and reporting any issues or malfunctions. Machine operatives may also handle basic maintenance, quality control, and follow safety procedures to keep the work environment safe and efficient.

What is the difference between Machine Operative vs Production Operative?

AspectMachine OperativeProduction Operative
Primary RoleOperate and monitor machinery on the production lineAssist in various stages of manufacturing, including manual tasks
Skills & CertificationsBasic machinery operation, health & safety trainingManual handling, health & safety training
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants with machineryFactories, production lines with manual and semi-automated tasks
Common UsageManufacturing sectors like automotive, packagingFood, textiles, general manufacturing

The main difference is that a Machine Operative focuses on operating specific machinery, while a Production Operative may perform a broader range of tasks, including manual work. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and often require similar certifications and safety training.

What does a machine operative do?

A machine operative is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining industrial machinery to ensure efficient production. They often follow safety protocols, perform routine inspections, and may need technical skills or certifications related to the specific equipment they handle.

What is the highest paid machine operator?

The highest paid machine operators typically work in specialized industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, or manufacturing, where they operate complex and high-demand equipment. Experienced operators with advanced certifications and skills in CNC machining or heavy machinery can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $70,000 annually depending on location and industry.
What cities near Bloomington, IN are hiring for Machine Operative jobs? Cities near Bloomington, IN with the most Machine Operative job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operative job openings in Bloomington, IN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 58% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 11% Contract, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,693 per year, or $24.4 per hour.
Machine Operator Trainee

Machine Operator Trainee

Printpack

Bloomington, IN • On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago


Printpack rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 110 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Printpack Bloomington is looking for candidates to fill machine operator trainee positions in the Finishing Department. While manufacturing experience is helpful for this role, training is available for the right candidate.
Available schedule options include:
Monday-Thursday 7AM-7PM
Friday-Sunday 7AM-7PM (Work 36 hours, get paid for 40)
Monday-Thursday 7PM-7AM
Pay for this position starts at 19.00 per hour. An additional night shift premium of 2.50 applies for night positions between the hours of 7PM and 7AM.
An ideal applicant is reliable and able to work with attention to detail and safety standards. Being a team player is essential since all tasks will require close collaboration with co-workers. Good attendance is a must.
Printpack offers a clean, safe, climate-controlled work environment and a competitive benefits package including:
Medical/Dental/Vision Coverage
Life Insurance
Short/Long Term Disability
401(k) plan with employer contributions/match
Employee Assistance Programs
Educational Assistance
Service Awards
Paid Holidays
Paid Parental Leave

Assistants support the operations of the Finishing Department including setup, operation, quality production, general adjustments of the equipment, housekeeping and safety inspections.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for general machine operation and adjustments while giving operator breaks
  • Stage material and ensure proper set up of bag machines
  • Perform routine safety inspections of equipment
  • Maintain housekeeping standards in the work area
  • Ensure product meets quality requirements
  • Rework quality issues as needed

Qualifications

  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Stable work history
  • Ability to pass a drug screen and background check

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Must have the ability to accurately read a tape measure
  • Strong time management skills and ability to follow instructions
  • Must be able to demonstrate the ability to troubleshoot problems

Physical Demands

  • Lifting up to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to climb, kneel, bend, squat
  • Must be able to grasp, push, pull and have fine motor skills
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods of time
  • Ability to wear PPE including but not limited to hearing protection, steel-toe shoes, safety glasses

Work Conditions

The majority of tasks will be performed in a manufacturing setting with exposure to:

  • Noise levels above 80 dB
  • Operation of complex machinery
  • Solvents, fumes and inks
  • Variable Temperatures

Printpack is proudly an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment. Embracing diversity enhances our work culture and is vital to our success. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/parental status, genetic information, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, marital status, military or veteran status or affiliation, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.

To view your rights and government notices, please see the links below:

Know Your Rights - Conozca sus Derechos - Your Rights Under USERRA (dol.gov) - FMLA - FMLA (Spanish) -Polygraph Protection - Right to Work - Right to Work (Spanish)

Printpack is committed to helping individuals with disabilities participate in the workforce and ensure equal opportunity to compete for jobs. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist you with your application for employment or job search, please get in touch with us by sending an email to CorpRecruiting@Printpack.com. Please include in your email a brief description of the accommodation you are requesting and the position for which you are interested in applying.


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