ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Merrillville, IN

Novolex

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 ...

Novolex

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 ...

Novolex

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 ...

Novolex

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 ...

Ursitti Enterprises LLC

Tube Mill Operator

Gary, IN · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Structural Tube Mill Machine Operator Location: Gary, Indiana - Easy Highway Access! Industry ... Areas of Operation Entry End Uncoiler / End Welder · Assist with loading, feeding, and positioning ...

Pratt Industries

Stacker 2nd Shift

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$17.60/hr

Set-up bundler, hold down arm, load former, and delivery end of machine accurately in accordance ... Monitor quality of boxes and report quality problems to the Operator. Assist operator and first ...

Rise Baking Company, LLC

Operator II

Manteno, IL · On-site

$18.75 - $21.10/hr

Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot production machinery safely and securely as needed to achieve a ... * Assist in investigating issues, finding root causes, and developing solutions for issues that ...

Pratt Industries

Stacker 2nd Shift

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$17.60/hr

Set-up bundler, hold down arm, load former, and delivery end of machine accurately in accordance ... Monitor quality of boxes and report quality problems to the Operator. Assist operator and first ...

Jupiter Aluminum

Assistant Operator

Hammond, IN · On-site

Assistant Operator Jupiter Aluminum Corporation Hammond, Indiana Apply Now Position Summary The Assistant Operator supports daily production operations by assisting machine operators with material ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Assistant JobsMachine Operator Assistant Jobs in Merrillville, IN

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Merrillville, IN salary details

$13

$18

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 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.

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 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 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.

How to become a machine operator assistant with no experience?

To become a machine operator assistant with no experience, start by gaining basic knowledge of manufacturing processes and safety procedures through online courses or training programs. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training is provided to learn equipment operation and maintenance. Developing skills in attention to detail, manual dexterity, and understanding of tools can improve your chances of securing a position.

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:

Machine Operator Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Merrillville, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,738 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Machine Operator $23.00/hr. + $1.00 hr. Shift Differential for off shift / Monthly Incentive

Atkore

Merrillville, IN • On-site

$23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Operate and set up Automatic Strut Welder Machines according to production work orders.

  • Monitor product quality and document production, downtime, and quality assurance reports.

  • Troubleshoot and perform preventive maintenance on Strut Welders and assist with machine changeovers.

Atkore rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

322nd of 545 rated manufacturers

Job description

Machine Operator $23.00/hr. + $1.00 hr. Shift Differential for off shift
Who we are looking for:
We are currently looking for a Machine Operator to be based out of Hobart, Indiana. Reporting to the Production Supervisor, this person will be responsible for the operation and set-up of the various Automatic Strut Welder Machines.
What you'll do:
Additional responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Safely operate Strut Welders within engineered Takt Times.
  • Read and execute production work orders.
  • Fill out complete documentation for production, down time, and Q.A. reports.
  • Monitor the quality of the product being produced.
  • Ability to lift and manipulate up to 60lbs.
  • Standing and walking up to 12 hours per day.
  • Drive forklift when necessary.
  • Communicate safety, production, or any other problems to the shift supervisor.

What you'll bring:
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred.
  • 1 Year of Strut Welder operation experience or equivalent training.
  • Previous welding and forklift experience is a plus.

Within 3 months, you'll:
  • Safely operate all of the Strut Welders within engineered Takt Time.
  • Be able to troubleshoot and perform PM maintenance on the Strut Welders.
  • Assist set-up personnel with major changeover procedures.
  • Monitor the quality of the product being produced.
  • Be able to perform changeover/set-up for length change, finish (PG and PL)(solid to slotted material, various profiles and channel sizes all within engineered set-up parameters).

Who we are:
Atkore is a six-time Great Place to Work© certified company and a four-time Top Workplaces USA award winner! We're committed to creating an engaged, aligned workforce driven by a collaborative culture. Our team strives for breakthrough results and stays focused on being standout leaders. We consistently live the Atkore mission, strategic priorities, and behaviors consistent with our core values.
Join our team and align yourself with an industry leader!
As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay for this position is $23.00/hr. Placement in the range depends on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, relevant experience, skills, seniority, performance, shift, travel requirements, and business or organizational needs and may change over time. Other compensation may include, but not limited to, overtime, shift differentials, bonuses, commissions, stock, and other incentives.
Benefits available include:
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance
  • 401k
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid holidays
  • Any leave required under federal, state, or local law
  • Local Incentive plan eligible after 90 days

Benefits are subject to vesting and eligibility requirements.
Applications are being accepted on an ongoing basis.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Atkore employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply