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Machine Operator Jobs in Portage, IN (NOW HIRING)

UES, Inc.

Laborer and Machine Operator

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$19.96 - $24.95/hr

... floor operated crane Materials: Various mill supplies, rolls, scrap, etc. Working Procedures: * Performs general labor duties for the plant, such as remove scrap from machines using shovel and ...

UES

Laborer and Machine Operator

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

... floor operated crane Materials: Various mill supplies, rolls, scrap, etc. Working Procedures: * Performs general labor duties for the plant, such as remove scrap from machines using shovel and ...

RICH PRODUCTS

Operator - Machine

Chicago Heights, IL

$18 - $20/hr

Purpose Statement To prepare and operate machines safely, efficiently, and cleanly. Key Accountabilities and Outcomes * Responsible for the production of a quality product that meets all customer and ...

Daifuku

2nd Shift Machine Operator

Hobart, IN

$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 ...

Daifuku

1st Shift Machine Operator

Hobart, IN

$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 ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Portage, IN

Machine Operator information

See Portage, IN salary details

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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, Lvl C

Machine Operator, Lvl C

The Greenbrier Companies

Chicago Heights, IL • On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

At Greenbrier, we do the hard work that matters. The Greenbrier Companies (NYSE:GBX) is powering the movement of products around the world as a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of freight rail transportation equipment and services.
Greenbrier's heritage of hard work and industrial innovation is celebrated at every level of our organization. We structure our business to support teams that deliver innovative solutions for our customers while positively impacting the world around us.
Greenbrier's success begins with people. We believe in supporting our global workforce through our unwavering attention to Safety, Quality, Respect for People and Customer Satisfaction. Our Inclusion, Diversity, Engagement, Access and Leadership (IDEAL) commitment is rooted in these values, which lead to a culture where employees are engaged and feel good about coming to work every day.
Summary
The Machine Operator Level C is responsible for operating various types of machinery to produce parts within dimensional tolerances, using select feeds and speeds based on alloy type, to obtain the best cutting conditions, and producing the longest tool life.
Duties and Responsibilities
To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform the following essential duties satisfactorily. Other duties may be assigned to address business needs and changing business practices.
  • Follow all EHS rules and regulations.
  • Produce parts according to print requirements, and produce tooling, fixtures or other parts using various types of machinery.
  • Measure part dimensions using calipers, micrometers, or other types of measurement.
  • Maintain tools and equipment in good, clean working order to maximize tool life
  • Perform safety checks on every machine, keeping work area clean and orderly.
  • Other duties as assigned, including but not limited to special processes.

Qualifications
The following generally describes requirements to successfully perform the assigned duties.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Ability to learn and understand basic machine operation.
  • Ability to focus and pay close attention to detail while managing and prioritizing multiple tasks.
  • Ability to use or learn to use measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and tape measures.
  • Ability to learn process for determining and regulating speed and feed rates of machines.
  • Ability to work and communicate within a team setting.
  • Ability to recognize defects, out-of-tolerance measurements and escalating those matters to management.
  • Ability to document measurements and other criteria legibly when required.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Preferred Qualifications
  • One to three years' work experience.
  • Experience working in a production environment using heavy industrial equipment and/or machinery.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Exposure to a production environment that requires work both inside and outside in hot, cold, wet, humid, dry, and dusty conditions. Employees are required to use personal protective equipment as environmental conditions dictate.
Physical Activities and Requirements
Frequency Key
Not Applicable: Activity is not applicable to this occupation
Occasionally: Occupation requires this activity up to 33% of the time (0- 2.5+ hours/day)
Frequently: Occupation requires this activity from 33% - 66% of the time (2.5: 5.5+ hours/day)
Constantly: Occupation requires this activity more than 66% of the time (5.5+ hours/day)
Working Postures
  • Sit: Occasionally
  • Walk: Frequently
  • Bend: Frequently
  • Kneel/Squat: Frequently
  • Crawl: Occasionally
  • Climb: Occasionally
  • Reach Forward: Frequently
  • Reach Upward: Frequently
  • Handling/Fingering: Occasionally

Lift / Carry Requirements
  • 5-10 lbs: Frequently
  • 10-25 lbs: Frequently
  • 25-50 lbs: Occasionally
  • 50-75 lbs: Not Applicable
  • 75+ lbs: Not Applicable

Push / Pull Requirements
  • Less than 10 lbs: Frequently
  • 10-25 lbs: Frequently
  • 25-50 lbs: Frequently
  • 50-75 lbs: Not Applicable
  • 75+ lbs: Not Applicable

EOE including Vet/Disability
Click here for more information: Know Your Rights
Greenbrier makes reasonable accommodations in the application and hiring process for individuals with known disabilities, unless providing accommodation would result in an undue hardship. Any applicant believing that he or she may need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact Greenbrier Human Resources at careers@gbrx.com or call us at 503-684-7000.
Email communication from The Greenbrier Companies (Greenbrier) will always come from a corporate email address that ends in @gbrx.com or from our applicant tracking system, iCIMS, after you have created a secure account and submitted your application. During the application process, you will create a secure account in our secure applicant tracking site that ends with "-gbrx.icims.com". In this portal, we will ask you to provide your contact information, past employment history, education history and other job-related information.

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