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3Rd Shift Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

2nd Shift - Machine Operator

Sheldon, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Job Summary: We're looking for a skilled machine operator to join the team on our second shift! Your main job is loading polyethylene resin and unloading completed parts from the rotational molding ...

1st Shift_ Machine Operator III_ Onsite

Carroll, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

This operator consistently demonstrates expert-level proficiency in setting up and operating all conventional, CNC, and manual machining equipment with minimal to no oversight. They possess strong ...

1st Shift_ Machine Operator III_ Onsite

Carroll, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

This operator consistently demonstrates expert-level proficiency in setting up and operating all conventional, CNC, and manual machining equipment with minimal to no oversight. They possess strong ...

2nd Shift_ Machine Operator I_ Onsite

Carroll, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

... welding, machining, furnace operators demonstrating a high level of proficiency on multiple ... The schedule for this position is 2nd shift Monday through Friday 3:30pm - 12:00am . Training ...

2nd Shift_ Machine Operator I_ Onsite

Carroll, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

... welding, machining, furnace operators demonstrating a high level of proficiency on multiple ... The schedule for this position is 2nd shift Monday through Friday 3:30pm - 12:00am . Training ...

IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

Available to work any shift and overtime as needed. * e as a machine or production operator in a high speed manufacturing environment * Understanding of basic math, ability to follow directions ...

Showing results 41-60

3Rd Shift Machine Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$17

$22

How much do 3rd shift machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3rd shift machine operator in Iowa is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3rd shift machine operator?

3rd Shift Machine Operators are employees who operate and monitor machinery during the overnight or late-night shift, typically from late evening to early morning. Their responsibilities include setting up machines, performing routine maintenance, ensuring quality control, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Working the third shift often requires attention to safety protocols, the ability to work independently, and adaptability to a nighttime work schedule. These roles are common in manufacturing, warehouse, and production environments where operations run 24/7.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3rd shift machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3rd Shift Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with prior manufacturing experience. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and often basic computer systems or machine interface panels is expected. Reliability, problem-solving, and the ability to work independently during overnight hours are important soft skills. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of equipment, minimal downtime, and consistent production quality during less supervised shifts.

What are some common challenges faced by 3rd shift machine operators and how can they be managed?

3rd Shift Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining focus during overnight hours, managing fatigue, and adapting to a quieter or less supervised work environment. To overcome these, it’s important to establish a consistent sleep schedule, stay hydrated, and take advantage of scheduled breaks to prevent burnout. Operators are encouraged to communicate regularly with team members across shifts to ensure seamless handovers and address any issues that arise. Many companies offer shift differentials and support programs to help 3rd shift workers manage these challenges effectively.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Iowa?

For 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most 3Rd Shift Machine Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs in IA?

For 3Rd Shift Machine Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various 3Rd Shift Machine Operator job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,900 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Equipment Operator - 3rd Shift

Orange City, IA • On-site

$22.80/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub. Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!Your OpportunityA great job and a great future await you at Smithfield Foods. As the world's largest pork processor and largest hog producer in the United States. We're looking for motivated people who want to join our team and grow lasting and meaningful careers with us.Our team members receive industry-leading wages and are eligible for great benefits packages:Hourly Competitive Starting Pay - $22.80/hour$1.00/hour shift differential for 3rd shiftComprehensive Health Insurance, Retirement Benefits and More.In addition, we offer opportunities for career growth and professional development. The Value You'll Bring As a Machine Operator team member at Smithfield Foods, you'll play a key role in delivering safe, high-quality food by performing essential production tasks and supporting your coworkers. Your reliability, attention to detail, and strong work ethic will help us meet our standards for safety, quality, and teamwork every day. You'll contribute to a positive work environment, help maintain a safe and efficient production line, and ensure our products reach families across America. Your dedication and willingness to learn will make a real difference-both to your team and to our mission of delivering good food , responsibly. What You'll Do Machine Operators will work with meat cutting/ packaging machin es and other equipment to process meat products for the consumer. These positions require technical knowledge of computerized equipment . Machine Operator positions are physically demanding and require good hand-eye coordination, and attention to detail. Machine Operators must be able to work their scheduled shift and may be required to work overtime depending on production demands. Physical Demands & Work Environment To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required .Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions. All applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Applicants must be willing and able to: Understand and follow oral and written instructionsPerform a task requiring continuous/repetitive movement, including grasping, pinching hands, flexing, and extending armsStand on concrete and/or platforms for up to a 12-hour shiftWork around animal blood and/or carcass partsWork with a knife (if trained)Work in cold areas ( approximately 20-40 degrees) and/orwarm areas (over 100 degrees)Work in an environment that is wet and humidWork while wearing a hard hat, hearing/eye protection, and steel-toed safety shoesWork in a noisy environment using personal protective equipment (PPE)Work with sanitation/cleaning chemicalsWork around strong smells/ odorsClimb/move on ladders, steps, stairways, walkways and platformsBend, stoop, and twist repetitively over the course of an entire shiftWalk long distancesMay require certification in order to operate various pieces of equipment required for the positionThis work is physically demanding and can require the use of some or all body parts and muscle groups.Some positions may require repetitive overhead lifting up to 30 lbs , single lifting of heavy objects which can weigh up to 60 lbs , or lifting of objects using mechanical assistance .Additional essential functions may be applicable to specific jobs.The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned. IndSPR-Ops Relocation Package Available No EEO Information Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.