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

Machine Operator

Elkhart, IN ยท On-site

$20 - $35/hr

A Machine Operator will process individual copper strands to a completed multiple strand ... Skills and Abilities * Assist in cross-functional activities as required - helping/assisting other ...

Machine Operator 1 - SPS

Elkhart, IN ยท On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PURPOSE: Machine Operator 1 (MO1), a field based position, is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing ...

Machine Operator 1 - SPS

South Bend, IN ยท On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Assistant Manager, Superintendent or Assistant Superintendent GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PURPOSE: Machine Operator 1 (MO1), a field based position, is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing ...

Molding Machine Operator

Constantine, MI ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Monitor, record and report all scrap. * Assist molders during machine changes as needed * Perform ... Responsible for following all Vaupell policies, standard operating procedures and safety practices.

Molding Machine Operator

Constantine, MI ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Monitor, record and report all scrap. * Assist molders during machine changes as needed * Perform ... Responsible for following all Vaupell policies, standard operating procedures and safety practices.

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Ligonier, IN ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

This position operates machines completing one or more processes toward the manufacturing of ... Perform or assist in part changeovers. * Assist in 5S advancement * Assist in implementation of ...

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Ligonier, IN ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

This position operates machines completing one or more processes toward the manufacturing of ... Perform or assist in part changeovers. * Assist in 5S advancement * Assist in implementation of ...

Fab Assistant

Bristol, IN ยท On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

REQUIREMENTS * Assist Machine Operators as needed. * Catch, stack, and measure sheared blanks ... Separate parts and work orders based upon next workstation. * Remove nested parts from sheet ...

Fab Assistant 2nd Shift

Bristol, IN ยท On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

REQUIREMENTS * Assist Machine Operators as needed. * Catch, stack, and measure sheared blanks ... Separate parts and work orders based upon next workstation. * Remove nested parts from sheet ...

Carpenter Co. has an immediate openings for Machine Operators in the pillow department on 1st shift ... Must be able to work in a team environment and assist co-workers * Must be able to read and ...

Operator A Consumer Products

Elkhart, IN ยท On-site

$23.93 - $24.85/hr

Carpenter Co. has an immediate openings for Machine Operators in the pillow department on 1st shift ... Must be able to work in a team environment and assist co-workers * Must be able to read and ...

Opr / Set Up Machine

Elkhart, IN ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Perform as a team member of a cellular operating group, which requires the ability to learn ... and assist Team Leader with problem correction. * Employee must perform his/her job within ...

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Machine Operator Assistant information

See Elkhart, IN salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Elkhart, IN is $17.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectMachine Operator AssistantMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in manufacturing or production settings, working alongside machine operatorsOperates machinery directly in manufacturing or industrial environments
Job ResponsibilitiesSupports machine operation, performs basic maintenance, and monitors equipmentControls and manages machinery, ensures quality, and troubleshooting

The Machine Operator Assistant primarily supports and assists the Machine Operator in daily tasks, focusing on preparation and basic maintenance. The Machine Operator takes on the responsibility of running and managing machinery independently. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, but the Machine Operator has more advanced technical duties and decision-making authority.

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

To thrive as a Machine Operator Assistant, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and the ability to use measuring tools or computer systems is often required. Reliability, effective communication, and the ability to work well in a team are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient machine operation and help maintain smooth production processes in manufacturing environments.

What is a machine operator assistant?

Machine Operator Assistants support machine operators by preparing materials, monitoring equipment, and ensuring a smooth production process in manufacturing environments. Their tasks often include loading and unloading materials, cleaning machines, inspecting products for quality, and assisting with machine maintenance. They help maintain efficiency and safety in the workplace and may also document production data or report equipment issues. This role is key for keeping manufacturing lines running smoothly and efficiently.

How much do you get paid as a machine operator assistant?

The average hourly wage for a machine operator assistant typically ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials may also increase total compensation.

What are some common challenges faced by a machine operator assistant, and how can they be overcome?

Machine Operator Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced production environments, ensuring safety compliance, and minimizing machine downtime. To overcome these, it's important to stay attentive to operational protocols, communicate effectively with machine operators and team members, and proactively report any equipment issues. Continuous learning and on-the-job training can also help assistants rapidly build the skills necessary to troubleshoot minor problems and contribute to a smooth workflow.
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 cities near Elkhart, IN are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs? Cities near Elkhart, IN with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Elkhart, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,809 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Machine Operator

LAKE CABLE, LLC

Elkhart, IN โ€ข On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

What would you say to a career that helps keep the world working? One where you take an active role in an industry that literally makes daily life possible for people and businesses alike? Where the rewards and opportunities for growth are as great as your ambition? Then Lake Cable is looking for you.

For more than a quarter century, Lake Cable has been a leading manufacturer of low voltage, industrial power, utility, custom OEM and broadcast-quality cables, all 100% produced in the United States. Thanks to a shared passion and commitment to our customers, we deliver the finest quality products, engineered to exacting specifications. BETTER. SMARTER. FASTER.

Headquartered in Bensenville, IL with over 450 employees and five facilities in the Midwest, Lake Cable is a privately-owned family business. That spirit of family inspires a culture where the success of every team member is a top priority, with competitive benefits and paths to advancement. Our richly diverse team is also committed to sustainability, community involvement, and ethical business practices. Because we believe it’s the only way to do business.

If you’re ready for a leap forward, we should talk. Lake Cable. When Delivery Matters…

A Machine Operator will process individual copper strands to a completed multiple strand construction. This function includes following the manufacturing process per the work order, the use of a forklift and overhead crane to stage material, following established machine set-up documents, processing the copper in accordance with established process parameters, conducting required quality activities, completing required documentation, labeling and staging of conforming product.

Essential Job Functions

  • Read and understand material specifications.
  • Use an overhead crane and forklift to move and stage material.
  • Read and understand process documentation for set-up and operation of processing equipment.
  • Read and understand process documentation to identify product requirements.
  • Complete and document all quality testing required both in-process and for final product.
  • Must react immediately if product does not meet requirements.
  • Complete all weight verifications.
  • Complete all required paperwork.
  • Use a computer to document production results.
  • Use a computer to generate product labels then place labels on finished product.
  • Maintain machine, associated equipment and work area in a safe, clean manner.

Skills and Abilities

  • Assist in cross-functional activities as required – helping/assisting other work centers.
  • Forklift driving experience desired; training will be provided.
  • Proper use of over-head cranes desired; training will be provided.
  • Copper weld experience desired; training will be provided.
  • May be requested to perform over-time activities.
  • Assist in engineering activities related to the operation.
  • Understanding of the ISO requirements related to the Production process.

Qualifications

  • Completion of high school, GED or equivalent.
  • Previous experience in a manufacturing environment – past wire experience preferred.
  • Able to read and understand product and processing specifications, as well quality requirements.
  • Computer experience desired; job specific computer training will be provided.
  • Must comply with all company rules and policies.

Work Environment

While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee operates within a plant environment. The employee is exposed to loud continuous noise from surrounding operating machinery.

Physical Demands

This is an active role as the employee will work in a manufacturing environment. While performing the essential functions of the job the employee will be required to stand, balance or walk on a consistent basis and may on a frequent basis be required to twist, turn, stoop, squat, kneel, bend or reach. The employee must use safe lifting techniques when lifting objects up to 50 pounds and carry out repetitive hand/wrist movements to include forearm rotation. Specific vision abilities required job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. The employee is frequently required to listen and speak and use his/her hands to operate equipment.

Benefits

  • Paid time off
  • 401(k) match
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance (company paid)
  • Voluntary Life/AD&D
  • Voluntary Life/AD&D (child)
  • Short-term disability (company paid)
  • Long-term disability (company paid)
  • Accident Insurance
  • Critical Illness Insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Referral program
  • Production bonus
  • Competitive pay



Day Shifts = 6:00am-6:00pm, 7:00am-7:00pm,
Night Shifts = 6:00pm-6:00am, 7:00pm-7:00am (Night Shift = 7% Differential)