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Associate Operator Jobs in Columbia, IA (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Showing results 41-60

Associate Operator information

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

To thrive as an Associate Operator, you need a solid understanding of production processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industry-specific machinery, safety protocols, and basic computer systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities help individuals excel in monitoring operations and addressing issues quickly. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production, ensuring safety, and contributing to overall operational success.

What is an associate operator?

Associate Operators are entry-level professionals responsible for supporting the daily operations of a facility, such as a manufacturing plant, warehouse, or control room. Their duties typically include monitoring equipment, performing basic maintenance, following safety protocols, and ensuring production processes run smoothly. They often work under the supervision of more experienced operators and may assist with troubleshooting issues or reporting problems. This role is a key starting point for those looking to build a career in operations or production environments.

What are some typical challenges an associate operator might encounter during daily operations?

As an Associate Operator, common challenges include quickly troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, adapting to unexpected changes in production schedules, and maintaining high attention to detail during repetitive tasks. You may also need to coordinate with maintenance and quality assurance teams to ensure safety and compliance standards are met. Effective communication and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for handling these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Associate Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectAssociate OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production linesFactories, industrial settings, production floors
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly, and production industriesWidely used in manufacturing, processing, and industrial sectors
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in operations, monitor equipment, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, ensure proper functioning, troubleshoot issues

Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, with Associate Operators typically supporting machine operations and performing basic tasks, while Machine Operators focus on directly handling machinery and ensuring smooth production processes.

What cities near Columbia, IA are hiring for Associate Operator jobs? Cities near Columbia, IA with the most Associate Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Columbia, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Production Associate

3M

Knoxville, IA

$24.96/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


3M rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 244 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Description:
Job Title
Production Operator
We offer:
  • Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified.
  • Pay increases throughout the first year of employment.
  • Medical, vision, dental, and life insurance starting on your first day.
  • 401k with generous company match
  • Up to three weeks paid vacation in your first year.
  • Twelve (12) company holidays
  • Employee assistance program and medical support
  • On-site cafeteria
  • Opportunities for advancement

The Impact You'll Make in this Role
As a Production Operator, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative and diverse people around the world. Here, you will make an impact by:
  • Demonstrates safe work behavior to avoid injury to self and others.
  • Follow operating procedures and customer specifications to produce quality products which are delivered to customers.
  • Leading innovation and sustainability.
  • Creating a positive, inclusive work environment that fosters learning and development for all.
  • Implementing change and continuous improvement to drive growth and increase efficiency.

Your Skills and Expertise
To set you up for success in this role from day one, 3M requires (at a minimum) the following qualifications:
  • Possess a High School Diploma/GED or higher.
  • Minimum six (6) months of manufacturing experience.
  • Must be able to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as scheduled working 8 to 12 consecutive hours per day on a weekly fixed (i.e., 3pm-11pm, 11pm-7am, and 7pm-7am)

***Applicants meeting the basic qualifications above may be required to take and pass 3M elected testing as a part of the selection process
Additional qualifications that could help you succeed even further in this role include:
  • One (1) or more years of manufacturing experience
  • Ability to use and operate computers to run processes

Work location:
  • Knoxville, IA

Travel: None
Relocation Assistance: Is Not Authorized
The starting rate of pay for this position is $24.30 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. This targeted compensation range represents a good faith estimate and can vary based on factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Other benefits and incentives may apply; pay and benefits overview: This information is being disclosed in accordance with local Pay Transparency Rules.
Must be legally authorized to work in country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status).
Supporting Your Well-being
3M offers many programs to help you live your best life - both physically and financially. To ensure competitive pay and benefits, 3M regularly benchmarks with other companies that are comparable in size and scope.
Chat with Max
For assistance with searching through our current job openings or for more information about all things 3M, visit Max, our virtual recruiting assistant on 3M.com/careers.
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All US-based 3M full time employees will need to sign an employee agreement as a condition of employment with 3M. This agreement lays out key terms on using 3M Confidential Information and Trade Secrets. It also has provisions discussing conflicts of interest and how inventions are assigned. Employees that are Job Grade 7 or equivalent and above may also have obligations to not compete against 3M or solicit its employees or customers, both during their employment, and for a period after they leave 3M.
Learn more about 3M's creative solutions to the world's problems at www.3M.com or on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @3M.
Responsibilities of this position include that corporate policies, procedures and security standards are complied with while performing assigned duties.
Safety is a core value at 3M. All employees are expected to contribute to a strong Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) culture by following safety policies, identifying hazards, and engaging in continuous improvement.
Pay & Benefits Overview:
3M does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Please note: your application may not be considered if you do not provide your education and work history, either by: 1) uploading a resume, or 2) entering the information into the application fields directly.
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