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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Merrillville, IN

Waxer Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

RESPONSIBILITIES * Assist Press Operator to mount paper roll on machine using chain hoist. * Blends liquid wax with additives and turns valves to regulate temperature and melt material. * Starts ...

Waxer Operator

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $21/hr

RESPONSIBILITIES * Assist Press Operator to mount paper roll on machine using chain hoist. * Blends liquid wax with additives and turns valves to regulate temperature and melt material. * Starts ...

Waxer Operator

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $21/hr

RESPONSIBILITIES * Assist Press Operator to mount paper roll on machine using chain hoist. * Blends liquid wax with additives and turns valves to regulate temperature and melt material. * Starts ...

Waxer Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

RESPONSIBILITIES * Assist Press Operator to mount paper roll on machine using chain hoist. * Blends liquid wax with additives and turns valves to regulate temperature and melt material. * Starts ...

Use hand tools and basic equipment to support machine operation and material preparation. * Assist with operating CNC machines if needed, following established procedures. * Operate forklifts or ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Merrillville, IN salary details

$13

$18

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Merrillville, IN is $18.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.85 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 Merrillville, IN? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Merrillville, IN are:
What cities near Merrillville, IN are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs? Cities near Merrillville, IN with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Merrillville, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,738 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Industrial Machine Operator/ Maintainer 1

ARDAGH GROUP

Valparaiso, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Ardagh Group rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Purpose of the Job:

The Maintainer is responsible for the set-up, tending, adjusting, maintaining, repairing and overhaul of the equipment within one of five production modules within the plant.  The Maintainer has the primary responsibility for production and quality on assigned equipment. Willing and able to work overtime and night shifts.

  • Check schedule to determine need for conversion or if scheduled maintenance is in order.  Determine if schedule can be adjusted or permits time for overhaul, repair or readjustments required by equipment.
  • Check machines.  Analyze any type of mechanical or operational troubles and plan for and take corrective action.  Make necessary corrections and running adjustment to maintain maximum production and quality.
  • Make conversions by setting up assigned equipment for change in material, size or product.   Operate equipment to try out conversion.  Check, test and measure product for quality specifications.  Examine for visual defects.
  • Make repair or overhaul as required short of machining parts.  Replace worn or damaged parts such as tooling, mechanical or sensory components. Retime machine action.
  • Operate, repair, clean, lubricate equipment as required to maintain production.  Clear jams.  Maintain and repair packaging equipment as necessary.
  • Examine, test, and measure product from assigned equipment for quality specifications, using appropriate gauges and instruments and record date.
  • Check coils for specification.  Ensure cuppers machinery are properly supplied with coils.
  • Read schematics, prints and exploded views of machinery and equipment.  Interpret and follow procedural manuals, manufacturer's guides and operation instructions.
  • Perform Preventative Maintenance inspection of assigned equipment, report findings and take appropriate action.  Write and perform maintenance work orders as required.
  • Analyze spoilage as to cause and take corrective action.  Analyze and record comments regarding cause of production delays on production report or trouble sheet.
  • Advise service vendors servicing equipment of standard operation procedures and requirements.
  • Notify supervisor of any incidences of recurring equipment malfunctions and corrective action taken and of any poor-quality material or supplies noted.
  • Operate equipment and assist production as directed.
  •  

These statements reflect the general details considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job identified and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all work requirements that may be inherent in the job.  Some of the work requirements which are common to all jobs are housekeeping, meeting productions and quality levels, relief of others for brief periods, safety considerations and participation in teams and at meetings.  All of these common elements have been included in the evaluated level of the job.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience:

  • Minimum 5+ previous mechanical/fast-paced manufacturing experience
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent required
  • Demonstrated mathematical and mechanical aptitude
  • Familiar with Personal Protective Equipment
  • Familiar with proper handling of chemicals and solvents
  • Mechanically inclined; familiar with hand tools

Key Job Competencies/Physical Demands:

  • Able to stand for a long duration of time in excess of 8 hours a day
  • Able to bend over and rotate body repeatedly
  • Able to lift up to 35 pounds
  • Exposure to heat, cold, vibrations, odors/fumes, and loud noise
  • Able to perform fine manipulations with hands

#IND1

About Ardagh Metal Packaging

Ardagh Metal Packaging (AMP) is a leading supplier of sustainable, infinitely recyclable metal beverage cans to brand owners globally. An operating business of sustainable packaging business Ardagh Group, AMP is a leading industry player across Europe and the Americas, with innovative production capabilities, 23 production facilities, more than 6,000 employees and recorded revenues of $4.8 billion in 2023.

AMP is 76%-owned by Ardagh Group and is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker AMBP.

About Ardagh Group

Ardagh Group is a global supplier of infinitely recyclable metal and glass packaging solutions, producing packaging for brand owners around the world. We have grown to a team of approximately 20,000 people with revenues of more than $9 billion. Today we have a presence across the Americas, Europe and Africa.

Ardagh produces many of the beverage cans and bottles that contain your favourite beverages.

Our packaging is manufactured from metal and glass - permanent materials that can be infinitely recycled without any loss of quality.

Ardagh produces more than 60 billion containers per year (more than 160 million containers per day).

The future we're creating for Ardagh is built around our four Core Values of Inclusion, Trust, Teamwork and Excellence. We offer exciting and rewarding opportunities for talented and creative people. If you have ambition and want to make an impact with your career, come and join our team - you'll enjoy the journey!


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