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Assembly Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control ... Feed components onto assembly conveyor, into hoppers, machinery or other devices to maintain ...

Machine Operator

Clinton, IA · On-site

$17.55/hr

The Machine Operators are responsible for preparing, configuring, and operating machinery used in ... Operators play a key role in maintaining product integrity and readiness for final assembly and ...

The Machine Operators are responsible for preparing, configuring, and operating machinery used in ... Operators play a key role in maintaining product integrity and readiness for final assembly and ...

Machine Operator

Clinton, IA · On-site

$17.55/hr

The Machine Operators are responsible for preparing, configuring, and operating machinery used in ... Operators play a key role in maintaining product integrity and readiness for final assembly and ...

Machine Operator

Clinton, IA · On-site

$17.55/hr

The Machine Operators are responsible for preparing, configuring, and operating machinery used in ... Operators play a key role in maintaining product integrity and readiness for final assembly and ...

This is a great fit for candidates with production, assembly, machine operator, warehouse, or general labor experience. What You'll Be Doing * Operate and monitor production equipment * Set up ...

New

NOW HIRING Machine Operators!Starting at $22+/Hour + $3/Hour Shift DifferentialCareer Growth ... Assembly and Production * Industrial Manufacturing Build Your Future With Us If you're looking for ...

... be integral in operating machinery and contributing to the manufacturing process in a clean ... Conduct assembly and inspection duties with precision. * Perform basic mathematical operations such ...

Showing results 21-40

Assembly Machine Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$16

$21

How much do assembly machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for assembly machine operator in Iowa is $16.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assembly machine operator?

Assembly machine operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain machinery used in the production and assembly of products or components. They ensure machines run efficiently, monitor the quality of produced items, and may perform basic troubleshooting or repairs. These operators often work in manufacturing environments and must follow safety protocols to prevent accidents and maintain product standards. Attention to detail and the ability to work with precision are important qualities for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assembly machine operator?

To thrive as an Assembly Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, basic hand tools, and experience with quality control systems or certifications like OSHA safety training are often required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions precisely help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by assembly machine operators, and how can they be addressed?

Assembly Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as managing repetitive tasks, maintaining high attention to detail, and troubleshooting minor machine issues. Staying focused and following safety protocols are crucial to avoid mistakes or accidents. Many employers provide on-the-job training and encourage teamwork, which helps operators quickly learn best practices and resolve technical problems efficiently. Regular communication with supervisors and maintenance teams also ensures a smooth workflow and fosters a supportive work environment.

What is the difference between Assembly Machine Operator vs Production Worker?

AspectAssembly Machine OperatorProduction Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; minimal specialized training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or assembly line, operating machineryGeneral factory or production floor, performing various tasks
Job FocusOperating and monitoring assembly machinesPerforming manual or semi-automated tasks in production

While both roles work in manufacturing settings, Assembly Machine Operators focus on operating specific machinery to assemble products, requiring technical skills and machine knowledge. Production Workers perform broader tasks, often manual, in the manufacturing process. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and career goals.

What are popular job titles related to Assembly Machine Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Assembly Machine Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assembly Machine Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Assembly Machine Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Assembly Machine Operator jobs in IA?

For Assembly Machine Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Assembly Machine Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,173 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

The Scotts Miracle Gro Company

Fort Madison, IA • On-site

$21.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


ScottsMiracle-Gro rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

296th of 543 rated manufacturers


Job description

Here at Scotts Miracle-Gro there is no such thing as a typical day. Our culture is constantly energized by new and exciting growth opportunities and at a rapid pace. Below are details on an open job. If the role interests you and you would like to be considered we encourage you to apply!

This hourly role follows the Scotts/Hawthorne step pay progression scale and typically starts at $21.60 per hour and is paid weekly. Scotts/Hawthorne will consider various factors in determining the actual pay including your skills, qualifications, experience, and geographical location.

We are looking for a Machine Packaging Operator who will join our Liquids Manufacturing team in Ft. Madison, IA.

Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control automated liquid bottle filling machinery and feed components onto assembly conveyors and other equipment. If you're looking for a fast paced, high energy environment, this could be the role for you!

What you'll do in this role:

  • The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing various tasks associated with the packaging of liquid products and operating various packaging machines on production lines.
  • Adhere to plant safety rules and programs as it pertains to self and all other associates, including performing audits, safety suggestions, and participation in safety rotation of jobs.
  • Operates and tends automated machinery that performs one or more liquid bottling packaging functions, to assist in meeting assembly line production schedules.
  • Ability to learn multiple pieces of automated equipment and flexibility to move to different machinery daily.
  • Feed components onto assembly conveyor, into hoppers, machinery or other devices to maintain continuous production. Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts, bottles, caps, labels, sprayers, etc., avoiding breaks in production assembly process.
  • Manually assemble/install various liquid packaging component parts including but not limited to sprayers, caps, box dividers, cases, display units, etc.
  • Clean, lubricate, reassemble, install, troubleshoot and adjust assembly line equipment to meet yearly and daily maintenance requirements and to complete frequent reconfiguration of assembly lines in preparation for changing product runs.
  • Effectively communicate and relay information to peers and supervisors concerning the performance of the production line as it pertains to the assembly, operation and performance of the line.
  • Continuously look for methods, procedural changes, or equipment modifications to improve line output and efficiencies and communicate appropriately.
  • Perform various manufacturing inspection protocols to ensure plant quality standards on liquid packaging products and display units.

What you'll need to be successful:

  • High School Diploma / GED, preferred.
  • Minimum 1 year experience as a machine operator, production operator or equivalent position in a high speed manufacturing environment preferred.
  • Basic math skills, mechanical aptitude, ability to make decisions regarding equipment adjustments to meet product specifications and quality conformity.
  • Ability to follow the directions provided in verbal or non-verbal format.
  • Demonstrate a willingness to learn multiple machines or operations.
  • Must be a team player and promote teamwork amongst productions lines, departments and shifts.
  • Available to work any shift and overtime as needed.

What we do for you (just to name a few cool ones):

  • Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, holidays, vacation and sick time benefits available within a month of your start date

  • Healthcare navigation, advocacy and support

  • 401(k) company match up to 7.5% with immediate participation and vesting

  • Ability to purchase company stock at a 15% discounted price from market value

  • $600 annual wellness reimbursement program

  • Up to $30,000 to help cover the cost of fertility treatments, adoption or surrogacy

  • Up to 18 weeks of time away to support your growing family

  • To view all of our great benefits, click here!

* Eligibility for the above benefits may vary based on full-time/part-time status or additional factors.

Not interested in this role? Stay up to date on future opportunities by joining our ScottsMiracle-Gro and Hawthorne Gardening talent communities.

Scotts is an EEO Employer, dedicated to a culturally diverse, drug free workplace.

EEO/AA Employer/Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

Notification to Agencies:

Please note that the Scotts Miracle-Gro company does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Master Service Agreement, and specific approval to submit resumes to an approved requisition, the Scotts Miracle-Gro company will not consider or approve payment regarding recruiter fees or referral compensations.


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