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Machine Operator Jobs in Portage, IN (NOW HIRING)

Mazzella Companies

Machine Operator

East Chicago, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Maintain and monitor machine to ensure it functions properly * Develop in-depth understanding of how assigned equipment functions * Operate forklift as required to support manufacturing * Interpret ...

Daifuku

ILUS - Machine Operator

Hobart, IN · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator operates the CNC machine to cut and build rollers, sets up and operates a variety of machines. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: * Measuring and setting up ...

Daifuku

ILUS - Machine Operator

Hobart, IN

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator operates the CNC machine to cut and build rollers, sets up and operates a variety of machines. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: * Measuring and setting up ...

Daifuku

ILUS - Machine Operator

Hobart, IN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator operates the CNC machine to cut and build rollers, sets up and operates a variety of machines. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: * Measuring and setting up ...

Material Sciences Corporation

Be Seen First

General Machine Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Position Summary The Production Utility Operator provides support across coating and laminating operations by assisting with machine setups, material handling, and general production activities. This ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Portage, IN

Machine Operator information

See Portage, IN salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Portage, IN is $16.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

While most machine operator roles do not reach $500,000 annually, high-level positions in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or executive management can exceed this income level. Achieving such earnings typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, certifications, and often leadership responsibilities or ownership stakes.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $3,000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, high-level consultants, and skilled trades like offshore drilling or certain construction projects. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, certifications, or working in high-demand industries with long hours or high risk.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

The average salary for a machine operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled operators with certifications or experience working with specialized machinery may earn higher wages, and some positions offer shift differentials or overtime pay.

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.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator roles are often found in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where advanced skills and certifications are required. These positions may offer higher salaries due to the technical expertise, safety requirements, and experience needed, with some earning over $70,000 annually depending on location and industry.

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 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 is the work of 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, perform quality checks, and troubleshoot issues as needed, often following safety protocols and using tools like control panels or gauges.
More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Portage, IN? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Portage, IN are:
What cities near Portage, IN are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Portage, IN with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Machine Operator I - Day shift

Machine Operator I - Day shift

Crest Industries

Chicago Heights, IL • On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Come join our team at DIS-TRAN Steel!
Our people - not our machinery - are our biggest assets. DIS-TRAN Steel's leadership team lives by our company values, modeling our culture of respect and integrity each day. We're a team that likes to have fun, but we also know how to get stuff done.
DIS-TRAN Steel, located in Chicago Heights, IL, is looking for Machine Operators to join our team. Machine Operators must be capable of operating machines in a steel plant. Individuals must possess the ability to read a tape measure and must possess basic math aptitude. Machine Operators will safely operate CNC machinery (drill, saw, etc.). Individuals will perform daily preventative maintenance on machines.
Competencies:
  • Customer Focus
  • Decision Quality
  • Business Insight
  • Drives Results
  • Collaborates
  • Communicates Effectively
  • Courage
  • Instills Trust
  • Manages Ambiguity

REQUIREMENTS FOR MACHINE OPERATOR:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret typed reports and schedules required.
  • Ability to interpret blueprints required.
  • Ability to read a tape measure required.
  • Certifications or prior experience using moving machinery, such as cranes, preferred.
  • Must complete on-site training and demonstrate safe operation of machinery.

As strategists, operational experts, customer advocates and team players, we all believe in the power of our people. Explore how you can become a part of our team of strength and commitment that's built to last!
DIS-TRAN Steel is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.
DIS-TRAN Steel is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request information regarding reasonable accommodation, contact your Human Resource Business Partner.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c).
Part of the CREST INDUSTRIES family of companies.

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