1

Temporary Machine Operator Jobs in Montgomery, IN

Temporary Machine Operator information

See Montgomery, IN salary details

$10

$15

$20

How much do temporary machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary machine operator in Montgomery, IN is $15.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary machine operator?

Temporary Machine Operators are workers who are hired for a short-term period to operate machinery in manufacturing, production, or warehouse settings. Their responsibilities typically include setting up machines, monitoring their operation, making minor adjustments, and ensuring quality standards are met. Temporary roles often fill in during busy seasons, employee absences, or special projects. These positions usually require basic mechanical aptitude and adherence to safety protocols. Prior experience operating similar machines is often preferred but not always required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Machine Operator, you generally need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes experience with specific equipment or certifications like OSHA safety training are commonly required. Reliability, adaptability, and strong teamwork skills help individuals excel in this fast-paced and dynamic role. These skills and qualifications are vital for maintaining productivity, ensuring safety, and contributing to smooth operations on the production floor.

What are the typical challenges faced by temporary machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Temporary machine operators often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new equipment and workflows, as assignments may vary between different facilities. It's common to have a limited onboarding period, so being proactive in asking questions and seeking clarification from supervisors is essential. Another challenge can be understanding and complying with safety protocols unique to each workplace. Building strong communication with permanent staff members and remaining attentive to training resources can help overcome these hurdles and ensure success in the role.

What is the difference between Temporary Machine Operator vs Permanent Machine Operator?

AspectTemporary Machine OperatorPermanent Machine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and basic machine operation certificationsSame as temporary, often with additional certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentShort-term assignments, often in manufacturing or production plantsLong-term employment in similar settings
Employment StatusTemporary, often through staffing agenciesFull-time or part-time, directly employed by the company
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate machinery, follow safety protocols, and perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot issues

The main difference between a Temporary Machine Operator and a Permanent Machine Operator lies in employment duration and stability. Temporary Machine Operators work on short-term assignments, often through staffing agencies, while Permanent Machine Operators are employed directly by the company with ongoing roles. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but the employment structure and job security differ.

How much do you get paid as a temporary machine operator?

Temporary machine operators typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and industry. Overtime pay and benefits may be available for longer shifts or higher-skilled roles, and certifications in equipment operation can influence pay rates.

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

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

Extrusion Operator - 2nd shift

First Call Temporary Services

Washington, IN โ€ข On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate PP extruders, co-extruders, hoppers, loaders, downstream, and related equipment to produce PP products.

  • Perform quality tests at least every two hours and ensure products meet physical and color standards.

  • Assist with line start-up, shut-down, cleaning, and troubleshooting to maintain continuous production and limit downtime.


Job description

 
Position Overview  
Responsible for the operation of PP extruders, co-extruders, hoppers, loaders, downstream and other related equipment involved in the production of PP products.  This position will work with all levels of management, including owners, managers and supervisors.  Additionally, positive professional contact with external clients is required, promoting a smooth flow of information and materials regarding receipt and delivery of products and distribution services. This position will have a wide reach within the company.  This will also include; packaging finished products and inspecting products to ensure they meet our highest quality standards. 
Essential Job Functions:
  • Produce PP products that meet or exceed all quality standards for both physical and color tests while performing quality tests at minimum of every two hours
  • Limiting the production of out of spec material by following all production procedures
  • Develop a routine, with the extrusion lines, that ensures continuous production with limited downtime
  • Follows all shut down and start up procedures to protect all equipment from damage
  • Cooperate with other operators to provide continuous coverage for all extrusion lines during breaks, jam ups, etc.
  • Assist line packers when needed during breaks, jam ups and other high demand times
  • Assist material handler when needed during breaks, jam up and other high demand times
  • Limits downtime with efficient line recovery in case of jam ups, power outages, etc.
  • Cleans and handles dies, nozzles, tooling, etc. in a professional manner to limit damage to these expensive items
  • Must be able to continuously see.  
  • Must be able to make fine discriminations in sound.
Personal/Technical Skills:
  • Focuses on employee relations centered on trust and teamwork.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Demonstrates a personality that works in cooperation with other team members towards building a sense of company teamwork.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to use machine manuals to research warning lights, gauges and operations.
  • Proficient operation of extruders and downstream equipment used to produce PP products.
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Organizational and time management skills.
  • Focuses on continually improving skills as outlined.
  • Basic math ability (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) and understand of conceptual math (geometry, charts, graphs) required.
Work Conditions:
  • Open office environment, moderate to loud noise.
  • Standard automotive plan environment with PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as safety glasses, steel toe shoes, hearing protecting, etc.  Personal attire standards may apply.
  • Ability to walk or stand for extensive periods of time.  
  • Ability to bend, squat and reach above shoulder level.
  • Ability to use hands and fingers to handle and feel.
  • Ability to sit for lengths of time.
  • Ability to drive.
  • Ability to do repetitive simple grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling on a frequent basis.
  • Ability to work varied schedule, including nights, weekends and holidays.
  • Ability to work overtime with short notice.
  • May occasionally be required to lift/carry, up to, 60 pounds.
 
Education/Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • One (1) to two (2) years as an operator in plastic extrusion, protrusion, blow molding or related plastics field.
  • Additional technical certifications are preferred.
  • Previous exposure to a multicultural office environment a plus.
 
 #FirstcallCol