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Machine Operator Jobs in Lafayette, IN (NOW HIRING)

Rose Acre Farms

EL Operator Level 3 - Shift 2

Wolcott, IN · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

This includes making the necessary adjustments to the press and depositor machines to ensure the ... Press and Depositor Operator Responsibilities * Obtain approval from the Quality Control department ...

Spartech

Extruder Operator

Crawfordsville, IN · On-site

$19/hr

Keep machine and area clean. * Report mechanical problems to the Lead Extruder Operator, Extrusion Manager, and/or shift maintenance. * Assist other operators as needed. * Accurately report all ...

Spartech

Extruder Operator

Crawfordsville, IN

$19/hr

Keep machine and area clean. * Report mechanical problems to the Lead Extruder Operator, Extrusion Manager, and/or shift maintenance. * Assist other operators as needed. * Accurately report all ...

Southwire Company LLC

Operator, Extruder I

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$29.58 - $31.99/hr

... machines that would fall under this job title would be: 6 inch PVC Extruder (BWP), Met Extruder (MC ... The operator is constantly exposed to water, some heat, cold, dust and fumes Benefits We Offer ...

Southwire Company LLC

Operator, Extruder I

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$29.58 - $31.99/hr

... machines that would fall under this job title would be: 6 inch PVC Extruder (BWP), Met Extruder (MC ... The operator is constantly exposed to water, some heat, cold, dust and fumes Benefits We Offer ...

Viper USA

Laser Operator

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Job Summary The Laser Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating laser-cutting ... Monitor machine operation and inspect completed parts for accuracy and quality. * Remove parts and ...

Regal Rexnord

ID Grind Set up and Operate

Monticello, IN

$16 - $19.75/hr

During the time required to complete a machine setup, the operator will attend the running machines in the group at regular intervals. * Operates multiple machines simultaneously. Manually loads all ...

Aerotek

Machine Maintenance Technician

Frankfort, IN · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Collaborate closely with machine operators, engineers, and production teams to improve equipment performance and reliability. * Document findings, repairs, and modifications to support ongoing ...

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Machine Operator information

See Lafayette, IN salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Lafayette, IN is $17.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine operator?

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 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 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 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 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.

How much do you get paid as a machine operator?

The average salary for a machine operator in the United States ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $25,000, while experienced operators with certifications can earn over $60,000 annually. Many machine operators work full-time, often with shifts that include nights and weekends.

What is the work of a machine operator?

A machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining industrial machinery to produce goods or components. They monitor equipment for proper functioning, follow safety protocols, and may perform quality checks during production. Proficiency with tools, attention to detail, and adherence to safety standards are essential in this role.
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The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Lafayette, IN are:

What cities near Lafayette, IN are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Lafayette, IN with the most Machine Operator job openings:

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Lafayette, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,394 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Production Operator (Extrusion) (REQ798)

Spartech

Crawfordsville, IN • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Spartech rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

72nd of 85 rated plastic manufacturers

Job description

Extruder Machine Operator - Starting Wages are $19 - $22 per hour!!
Crawfordsville, IN
How can you make a difference at your job and can have the opportunity to grow?
Join the Crawfordsville - Spartech Team!
Crawford Industries, now a part of Spartech, LLC has an opening for an Extruder Operator on our team in Crawfordsville, IN.The Crawfordsville operation of the organization specializes in extruding and converting flat plastic sheet. Plastic sheet may have graphics added and the die cut into license plates, the "lamp shade" used in veterinary clinics, signage, file folders, 3-ring binders, covers for school date books, for example. We reuse our scrap plastic whenever possible to create our environmentally friendly products. Come join our Extrusion team as they extrude plastic sheet to help create all kinds of products for our customers.
General Summary and Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Sets up and operates assigned extrusion line to produce quality plastic sheet at established rates.
Key Responsibilities to include:
  • Review the process sheet for each job assigned to confirm that set-up and materials furnished will yield product required.
  • Perform set up and operate an extruder to produce quality sheet as specified on the process sheet at the established rates within posted tolerances and free of streaks and contamination.
  • Perform safe start up and shut down of extrusion line as required.
  • Complete first piece inspection and hourly quality inspections verifying gauge, size, squareness, opacity, surface condition. and overall appearance of the sheet.
  • Work with Extrusion Utility on upcoming color or material changes.
  • Grind webbing from downstream operations when available as like colors are extruded.
  • Band skids as required and move loads to next work center as necessary.
  • Assist maintenance during roll changes.
  • Keep machine and area clean.
  • Report mechanical problems to the Lead Extruder Operator, Extrusion Manager, and/or shift maintenance.
  • Assist other operators as needed.
  • Accurately report all direct and indirect labor activities.

Requirements
Required Skills/Experience:
  • High School diploma or experience demonstrating equivalent skills and abilities
  • Previous manufacturing experience preferred, but not required
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Basic math skills
  • Able to read and use a tape measure and micrometer
  • Frequently lift up to 60 pounds
  • Will be required to work at heights and under adverse ambient temperature conditions
  • Able to use a hand truck to move materials and move heavier loads with forklift
  • Able to stand for extended periods of time

This position reports to the Extrusion Manager.
Benefits
We offer competitive salary, incentives, and benefit programs.
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision
  • Life & Short/Long-term Disability
  • Dependent and Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Holiday Pay
  • 401k with Company Match.
  • Eligible for vacation after 6 months.
  • During your training period your performance will occasionally be reviewed with the possibility of wage increases.

Spartech LLC, headquartered in Maryland Heights, Missouri is a leading manufacturing organization in the Custom Sheet & Roll Stock and Packaging industries with numerous locations throughout the United States. We have a broad customer base with extensive product offerings. Many of our materials are used in products you might see every day- for example if you start your morning with a yogurt or your child eats a single serving peanut butter-you may have already seen some of our materials. More unique uses of our materials can be seen in Military or security applications, for example, with bullet proof materials. From routine daily-life to life-saving applications-we make a difference. Our broad scope of products and services keep our environment interesting and challenging with a culture focused on success.
Spartech, LLC provides equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status, or other legally protected classification in the state in which a person is seeking employment. Spartech will use E-Verify to ensure employment eligibility of newly hired employees where required.

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