1

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

MACHINE OPERATOR

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator will be responsible for performing routine tasks related to the feed ... Two opportunities available, 2nd or 3rd shift. * This position is designed and intended to be ...

MACHINE OPERATOR

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator will be responsible for performing routine tasks related to the feed ... Two opportunities available, 2nd or 3rd shift. * This position is designed and intended to be ...

2nd Shift - Machine Operator

Sheldon, IA

$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 ...

2nd Shift - Machine Operator

Sheldon, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

West Des Moines, IA

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Machine Operator III is considered a specialist within the discipline performing work on multiple programs. Operator regularly demonstrates the expert ability and proficiency to set up and operate ...

1st Shift_ Machine Operator III_ Onsite

Carroll, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Machine Operator III is considered a specialist within the discipline performing work on multiple programs. Operator regularly demonstrates the expert ability and proficiency to set up and operate ...

2nd Shift_ Machine Operator I_ Onsite

Carroll, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

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 Aug 12, 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 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 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,900 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

IOWA MACHINE OPERATOR REFERRAL PROGRAM 2ND & 3RD SHIFT, CORYDON, IOWA

East Penn Manufacturing Company

Corydon, IA

$22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


East Penn Manufacturing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 82 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

At East Penn, our employees are our culture; our employees will always be the heart of the company.  We are a private, family-owned enterprise committed to cultivating an atmosphere that honors the contributions of everyone.  We want our employees to have long-term careers, and many do.  More than 38% of our workforce has over a decade of service.  Our open-door management policy, comprehensive benefits package, annual bonus program for all, and career advancement opportunities are just some of the ways we show our employees how incredibly valued they are. 

EOE/VEVRAA


Come join our family of Manufacturing Associates in a company who is innovative and  leading the manufacturing of Batteries.

Training will be provided. 

Associates will have the opportunities for promotional career paths.

Average wages $22 per hour


General manufacturing work on 2nd and 3rd shift includes:

  • Machine Operator
  • Forklift Operator
  • Assembly line work
  • Shipping

Good math skill including familiarity with metric system

Ability to use basic hand tools

Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot machinery

Ability to take and read measurements

Computer Skills

Mechanical Skills

Must be able to read and interpret 1st piece inspection/set-up sheets

Ability to maintain regular attendance

Ability to work mandatory overtime


What East Penn Manufacturing employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom