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Manufacturing Associate Jobs in Portage, IN (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance Mechanic - Manufacturing

Ford Heights, IL · On-site

$25.25 - $31.25/hr

Completion of maintenance mechanical course, Associate Degree, or equivalent experience is required ... manufacturing areas where noise levels may be high. Employee is required to abide by plant safety ...

... manufacturing drawings · Ability to use precision measuring devices · Continual attention to detail · Independent judgment and decision making abilities · Proficiency in basic Microsoft Office ...

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Manufacturing Associate information

See Portage, IN salary details

$11

$19

$30

How much do manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing associate in Portage, IN is $19.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing associate?

A manufacturing associate assists in the operations of a manufacturing facility and the products that it produces. As a manufacturing associate, your job duties include organizing supplies and raw materials inventory, preparing equipment, and training staff with preparation and production. You may also investigate the manufacturing process to fix any issues and ensure it meets strict regulations. The qualifications for a career as a manufacturing associate typically include a bachelor’s degree and prior manufacturing experience in a similar industry. You also need computer proficiency, as the job may require daily use of multiple software applications, along with mechanical skills to handle a variety of manufacturing tools and equipment.

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

To thrive as a Manufacturing Associate, you need a solid understanding of production processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, quality control systems, and safety protocols is typically required, and some roles may prefer certifications like OSHA training. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced, collaborative environments. These abilities ensure efficient production, uphold safety standards, and contribute to consistent product quality.

What are some common challenges manufacturing associates face, and how can they be addressed?

Manufacturing Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent quality under tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing production schedules, and ensuring safety in a fast-paced environment. Staying organized, following standardized operating procedures, and communicating effectively with team members can help address these issues. It's also beneficial to actively participate in training programs to stay updated on best practices and safety guidelines, which not only improves performance but can open doors to advancement opportunities within the organization.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Associate vs Production Technician?

AspectManufacturing AssociateProduction Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, manufacturing plantsFactories, production areas, equipment operation
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing companies, assembly plantsManufacturing, industrial facilities, production units
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Manufacturing Associates and Production Technicians both work in manufacturing environments, often performing similar tasks such as assembling products, operating machinery, and ensuring quality. The main differences lie in certifications and technical skills; Production Technicians typically require more technical training or certifications and may handle more complex equipment. Both roles are essential in the manufacturing industry and often overlap in daily responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing jobs in Portage, IN?

The most popular types of Manufacturing jobs in Portage, IN are:

What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Associate jobs in Portage, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Associate jobs in Portage, IN are:

What cities near Portage, IN are hiring for Manufacturing Associate jobs?

Cities near Portage, IN with the most Manufacturing Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Associate job openings in Portage, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,762 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Manufacturing Associate I (DS) - Chicago, IL

Unicon Pharma Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Title: Manufacturing Associate I (DS)

Location: Chicago, IL, 60616

Position Summary:

The Manufacturing Associate I (DS), will be responsible for the manufacturing of Biotechnology products for clinical and commercial human use.

Employee applies aseptic techniques while working in controlled and classified environments, which require cleanroom gowning and some aseptic gowning.

Must comply with Client policies, procedures (SOP), FDA current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), and any other government requirement.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Follow work instructions, production specifications, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to perform key responsibilities and maintain quality data while meeting production goals and timelines and minimizing downtime/delays.

Work instructions include but are not limited to:

  • Weighing and dispensing of materials
  • Media and buffer preparation
  • Operation of filtration systems (such as dead end filtration, depth filtration, tangential flow filtration)
  • Inoculation, fermentation, harvest, and homogenization of cytokine cells
  • Setup and operation of chromatography columns
  • Aseptic final filtration of intermediates and drug substances
  • Monitor product for quality output using PLC controls, HMI interfacing, integrity testing, and in process testing (pH, Conductivity, and Spectroscopy).
  • Properly handle and discard hazardous materials (i.e, buffers, chemicals, etc.) in accordance with EHS guidelines. Remove used and soiled materials from manufacturing areas.
  • Follow daily and weekly cleaning routines for cleanrooms and equipment to maintain the required conditions for cleanroom manufacturing.
  • Verify raw materials and commodities; accurately enter raw material and commodities data in MES on daily basis
  • Completes Batch Records and other cGMP documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
  • Reports nonconformances or events that arise during the shift to the Supervisor
  • Complies with all safety, cGMP and Company policies, practices and procedures.
  • Performs other functions as required or assigned

Education:

  • Associate degree or higher in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology or related preferred
  • Or an equivalent of 0 – 2 years of industry experience required
  • Aseptic techniques and cleanroom manufacturing experience is preferred.

Language:

  • Basic verbal and written communication skills in English with the ability to understand technical information, procedures, batch records, and other documents in English.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, effective communication with peers and supervision.

Reasoning Skills:

  • The candidate should have the ability to operate complex systems and equipment in accordance with current GMPs, SOPs, and safety guidelines under minimum supervision.
  • Basic skills for identifying problems and troubleshooting of the equipment and manufacturing processes
  • Ability to work independently, within prescribed guidelines, or as a team member and the demonstrated ability to follow detailed directions.

Computer and/or Technical Skills:

  • Skills for working with Computer systems, such as: Delta, PCR, POMS, LIMS, SAP, etc.
  • Operation and understanding of word processing, spreadsheets, and data management
  • Knowledge of GMP and safety requirements.
  • Knowledge of biotechnology operations such as, Aseptic Filtration Systems, Aseptic Sampling, Filter Integrity Testing, Fermentation Process, Inoculation Process, Chromatography Columns, Mixing systems, Weigh Scales, etc.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

  • General work environment and physical demands as required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Ability to work flexible hours as needed.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.