ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Setup Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN

$20/hr

... setup operator roles. • Enjoy competitive pay rates and the potential for overtime. What's a ... typical day as a Machine Operator? You'll be: • Learning to operate various types of equipment ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN

$20/hr

... setup operator roles. • Enjoy competitive pay rates and the potential for overtime. What's a ... typical day as a Machine Operator? You'll be: • Learning to operate various types of equipment ...

Attco Machine Products

Be Seen First

CNC Swiss Operators/Setup Technicians 1st & 2nd Shifts

South Bend, IN · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

... Operator, you will be integral to our manufacturing process, reporting directly to the Lathe ... Duties would be: * 3 years' minimum setup experience on CNC Swiss lathes. * Aerospace experience is ...

New

Attco Machine Products

Be Seen First

CNC Swiss Operators/Setup Technicians 1st & 2nd Shifts

South Bend, IN · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

... Operator, you will be integral to our manufacturing process, reporting directly to the Lathe ... Duties would be: * 3 years' minimum setup experience on CNC Swiss lathes. * Aerospace experience is ...

New

Nelson Global Products

Welder - Hiring Now

Indianapolis, IN

$19 - $23/hr

The Welder Setup Operator is responsible for welding production orders or components using MIG and TIG processes to meet customer and quality specifications. This involves using training or knowledge ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSetup Operator JobsSetup Operator Jobs in Indiana

Setup Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$14

$18

$25

How much do setup operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for setup operator in Indiana is $18.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying operator job?

The highest paying operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as oil and gas drilling, power plant operation, or aerospace manufacturing, where advanced technical skills and certifications are required. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to the complexity, risk, and expertise involved, with senior or supervisory positions earning significantly more than entry-level roles.

What is a Setup Operator?

A Setup Operator is a skilled worker responsible for preparing, configuring, and adjusting machinery or equipment for production runs in manufacturing environments. They ensure that machines are set up according to specific job requirements, including selecting tools, calibrating settings, and running test cycles to verify proper operation. Setup Operators also troubleshoot issues, perform minor maintenance, and may assist with quality checks to ensure products meet standards. Their role is crucial for efficient production and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Setup Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectSetup OperatorMachine Operator
Primary RolePrepares and sets up machinery for production runsOperates and monitors machinery during production
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certifications in equipment setupRequires operational training, sometimes certifications depending on machinery
Work EnvironmentWork in manufacturing or production facilities, often in a setup or changeover phaseWork in manufacturing lines, focusing on continuous operation
Industry UsageCommon in industries with complex machinery setups like plastics, metal, or electronicsWidespread across manufacturing sectors for ongoing production

While both Setup Operators and Machine Operators work in manufacturing environments, Setup Operators focus on preparing and configuring equipment before production, requiring specialized setup skills. Machine Operators handle the day-to-day operation of machinery, ensuring smooth production flow. Understanding these roles helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What does a setup operator do?

A setup operator prepares machinery and equipment for production by installing, adjusting, and testing components to ensure proper operation. They follow technical instructions, use tools such as wrenches and gauges, and often work in manufacturing or industrial environments to ensure efficient setup and startup of production lines.

Is CNC a good job?

A CNC setup operator is responsible for programming, setting up, and operating CNC machines used in manufacturing. The job offers steady employment, requires technical skills, and often involves working in a manufacturing environment with safety protocols. It can be a good career choice for those interested in machining and automation technology.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

High-paying jobs for setup operators are rare and typically require extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-stakes industries such as aerospace, manufacturing, or oil and gas. These roles may involve overtime, shift work, or hazardous environments, which can contribute to higher daily earnings. Most setup operator positions pay significantly less, but top-tier roles with advanced certifications and expertise can reach or exceed $2,000 per day in certain industries.

What are some common challenges faced by Setup Operators during equipment changeovers, and how can they be addressed?

Setup Operators often encounter challenges such as tight production schedules, varying equipment specifications, and ensuring precision during machinery changeovers. These tasks require attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills to minimize downtime and maintain product quality. Effective communication with maintenance teams and line supervisors is crucial to quickly resolve mechanical or technical issues. Regular training and familiarity with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) can also help Setup Operators manage these challenges efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Setup Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with manufacturing processes, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Proficiency with CNC machines, calibration tools, and quality inspection systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to follow precise instructions make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient machine setup, minimize downtime, and maintain product quality and safety standards.
Setup Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Setup Operator job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,398 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
CNC Lathe Setup/Operator

CNC Lathe Setup/Operator

Lionshead Precision Metals

Greenwood, IN

$21 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Pay: Based on experience

Job description:

Why Lionshead?

Lionshead Precision Metals is seeking a qualified candidate that can come in and hit the door running. Our Lathe department is packed with high quality equipment including our Okuma LB 1511-M CNC Lathe, Mori-Seiki NLX2500SY/700 CNC Lathe with Sub-Spindle, and the Tsugami B0325-II Swiss Turning Center with an Edge Patriot 338 magazine load bar feeder. All of our operators handle their own quality, setups and problem solving. If you can read complex blue prints and edit programs at the machine on CNC equipment then you may be a great fit!

Our company prides ourselves on growth from within. So if you're interested in starting somewhere with competitive pay and benefits as well as potential for growth, we may have a spot for you here at Lionshead Precision Metals.

Some general job duties for this position include but are not limited to:

  • Transfer programs to/from the computer
  • Zero Set parts
  • Touch off points and demonstrate how to perform them
  • Single block through a program cycle
  • Adjust chuck and ram pressure
  • Change chucks
  • Reposition tailstock
  • Demonstrate tool changes with VDI turret (3ax)
  • Demonstrate touch off procedure for live tooling (3ax)
  • Program G and M codes at the lathe (2ax and 3 ax)
  • Program new parts from part print in an efficient manner (2ax and 3ax)
  • Familiar with multi-spindle (2) machine

Our company is proud to offer competitive benefits!

Extraordinary Benefits:

  • NEW State of the Art Facility in Greenwood!
  • Lion Cub Benefit: Any Lionshead employee who has a baby during their employment, is eligible for a $250 gift certificate
  • 3 weeks paid vacation
  • Annual flu shots
  • Training and Mentoring Programs
  • Health, Dental, Vision Plans: After 90 days, employees are eligible to join these plans for themselves and their families
  • 401k: After 30 days

Vacation Program:

Vacation Accrual (Year 1):

  • After 3 months → 40 hours

  • After 6 months → +40 hours (80 total)

  • After 9 months → +40 hours (120 total)

After First Year:

  • Every January 1st → 120 hours

After 5-Year Anniversary:

  • January 1st following your 5-year anniversary → 160 hours

Standard Benefits:

  • Training and Mentoring Programs
  • Health, Dental, Vision Plans: After 30 days, employees are eligible to join these plans for themselves and their families
  • 401K: After 30 days, Lionshead matches your yearly investment up to 25% on the first 6% of the employee's salary
  • Annual free flu shot

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule:

  • 10 hour shift
  • Monday through Thursday
  • Night: 4:30pm - 3:00 am
  • Day: 6:00am - 4:30 pm

Experience:

  • Lathe Setup: 1 year (Required)