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Machine Operator Jobs in Gary, IN (NOW HIRING)

Sonoco

Machine Operator I

Beecher, IL

$20.37/hr

Machine Operator I Shift: 1st- 6:00 am-4:30 pm- Monday - Thursday *Overtime may be required on Fridays. Pay: $20.37/hour From a small family business to a multi-billion dollar global company, Sonoco ...

Connie s Pizza Inc

MACHINE OPERATOR L1

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Machine Operator will supervise and lead an assigned team through the daily activities in production to ensure smooth operations and efficient completion of projects. Supervisory Responsibilities:

Apparel Redefined

Embroidery Machine Operator

Crestwood, IL

$15 - $19.25/hr

Description The Embroidery Machine operator is responsible for the production of embroidered textiles. This person must be able to work with single and multiple head embroidery machines. You would be ...

Apparel Redefined

Embroidery Machine Operator

Crestwood, IL · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Job Type Full-time Description The Embroidery Machine operator is responsible for the production of embroidered textiles. This person must be able to work with single and multiple head embroidery ...

Elite Staffing

Machine Operator-PM SHIFT

Alsip, IL

$20.21/hr

Machine Operator-PM SHIFT Production/Set Up Operator/Spinner Operator This position is responsible for operating bag making machines in order to safely produce high quality paper bags in accordance ...

New

Pacer Group

Machine Operator III - US

Bedford Park, IL · On-site

$23.93/hr

Machine Operator III Duration: 03 Months (Temp to Hire) Location: Bedford Park, IL 60638 Payrate: $23.82/hr - $23.93/hr. On W2 Shift Time: 3rd shift $23.93/hr on W2 (11pm -7 AM) 2nd shift $23.82/hr ...

Agrati

Sort Machine Operator

Park Forest, IL · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Performs work accurately and efficiently in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures ... Prefer experience with fastener sorting machines operation and set-up. Physical Demands While ...

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Machine Operator information

See Gary, IN salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Gary, IN is $18.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $19.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Do Machine Operators Do?

Machine operators are skilled in operating machinery, often specializing in one type of machinery or industry to become an expert. Machine operators also have a general skillset, knowing how to operate a wide range of industrial machinery. Since there are numerous industries and sectors that use a multitude of machinery, there is always room to learn more.

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

To thrive as a Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or CNC machinery are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators quickly address issues and maintain productivity. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient machine operation and minimizing production downtime.

What are some common challenges faced by machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Machine operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and meeting production deadlines. Addressing these issues usually involves diligent machine maintenance, following safety protocols, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Many companies provide ongoing training to help operators stay up to date with new machinery and processes, fostering a supportive environment for troubleshooting and skill development.

What are machine operators?

Machine operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing or production processes. They ensure equipment runs efficiently and safely, monitor machine output, and perform routine inspections or minor repairs as needed. Machine operators often work with specialized equipment and are trained to follow safety protocols and quality standards. Their role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and meeting production targets.

What is the difference between Machine Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectMachine OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, production linesConstruction sites, mining, heavy machinery operation
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, assemblyConstruction, mining, transportation
Job FocusOperating specific machinery like presses, lathes, or CNC machinesOperating heavy equipment like bulldozers, cranes, or excavators

While both roles involve operating machinery, Machine Operators typically work with manufacturing equipment in factories, focusing on production machinery. Equipment Operators usually handle heavy construction or earth-moving equipment in outdoor environments. The skills and certifications often overlap, but the work settings and machinery types differ significantly.

More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Gary, IN? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Gary, IN are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Gary, IN look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Gary, IN are:
What cities near Gary, IN are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Gary, IN with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Machine Operator I

Machine Operator I

Sonoco

Beecher, IL

$20.37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Sonoco rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 109 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Location: Beecher, IL
Position: Machine Operator I
Shift: 1st- 6:00 am-4:30 pm- Monday - Thursday *Overtime may be required on Fridays.
Pay: $20.37/hour

From a small family business to a multi-billion dollar global company, Sonoco has been changing the face of products and packaging since 1899 - all while keeping the heart of "People Build Businesses" alive. Our talented people are at the core of our growth, constantly reinventing the Sonoco wheel with brilliant solutions every year. Today we are a world leader in global packaging solutions with diversified operations in over 34 countries. We're extremely proud of our portfolio of brands, our achievements in sustainability and industrialization and the groundbreaking work accomplished by our people.

While reporting to the Supervisor, as the Machine Operator, you will be responsible for collaborating and contributing to the production environment within our manufacturing operations.

What You'll Be Doing:

  • Operate and monitor rotational moldingmachines, molds, and associated equipment in accordancewith manufacturer recommendations and company procedures.
  • Perform routine checks on product to ensure parts are within in specifications (checking cure, thickness and sizing)
  • Perform routine checks and maintenance on molds to ensure the production of high-quality molded parts. Immediately reportany actual or potential problems to the supervisors.
  • Ensuremachinesare functioning efficiently, making adjustments as necessary to optimize output and reduce downtime.
  • Maintain all tools, jigs, fixtures, and molds in good working condition, including regular cleaning, waxing, and proper adjustments,
  • Report any needed repairs or issues with equipment to the supervisor immediately to prevent delays or quality defects.
  • Follow established company housekeeping practices, keeping the work area clean, organized, and safe
  • Accurately log production data and complete necessary paperwork for work orders andmachineoperation
  • Ensure compliance with safety protocols and standards at all times

Additional Responsibilities:

  • Provide feedback to supervisors regarding potential improvements in equipment performance or process efficiency.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at optimizing productivityand product quality.
  • Maintain communication with team members and supervisors to ensure smooth workflow and adherence to production schedules.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
  • Abilitytostand, bend, and operatemachinery for extended periods.
  • Ability to go up and down ladders

At Sonoco Products Company, we offer a comprehensive total rewards package, including competitive pay and benefits. *Benefits listed below are for employees located in the U.S. Specific benefits and wellbeing programs may vary depending on your location (within the U.S. or global), or if you are a union employee.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services
  • Paid time off and holidays to recreate, rejuvenate and care for the health of yourself and family
  • Variety of company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we strictly prohibit and do not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.

What Sonoco employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Sonoco

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sonoco is a $5 billion global provider of consumer packaging, industrial products and packaging supply chain services. When collaborating with our customers, we leverage our deep knowledge of material science, our i6 Innovation ProcessTM, and our industry-leading packaging and services portfolio to create impactful customized solutions that build stronger brands. We produce packaging for many of the world's most recognized brands, in markets such as appliances and electronics, automotive, beverages, confection, construction, converted paperboard, fresh and natural food, frozen and refrigerated food, shaving, home, lawn and garden, medical/pharmaceutical, pet care, powdered beverages, recycling and snacks. Sonoco's operations consist of our global consumer packaging businesses (rigid paper and closures, flexibles and plastics); our display and packaging division (high-impact retail displays and packaging supply chain management); our industrial businesses (tubes and cores, reels and spools, uncoated recycled paperboard and Sonoco Recycling, one of the world's largest recyclers); and our Protective Solutions division (custom-designed protective, temperature-assurance and retail security packaging solutions and highly engineered components). From our headquarters in Hartsville, S.C., and more than 300 operations in 33 countries, we serve customers in 85 nations.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Hartsville, SC, US

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