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Helper Machine Operator Jobs in George, IA (NOW HIRING)

... machine and plant helpers. The typical schedule is Monday - Friday 6:00 AM - 4:00 PM with an ... hand or by operating heavy equipment and/or hand tools. * Compute or estimate transportation ...

In this role, you'll help produce high-quality livestock feed by operating equipment, supporting ... Ability to operate machinery such as loaders, conveyors, tractors, and track mobile * Ability to ...

In this role, you'll help produce high-quality livestock feed by operating equipment, supporting ... Ability to operate machinery such as loaders, conveyors, tractors, and track mobile * Ability to ...

In this role, you'll help produce high-quality livestock feed by operating equipment, supporting ... Ability to operate machinery such as loaders, conveyors, tractors, and track mobile * Ability to ...

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Helper Machine Operator information

See George, IA salary details

$10

$16

$20

How much do helper machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for helper machine operator in George, IA is $16.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $17.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a helper machine operator do?

As a Helper Machine Operator, your daily tasks usually involve assisting the main machine operator by preparing materials, loading and unloading machines, and monitoring equipment for proper operation. You may also be responsible for basic maintenance, cleaning the work area, and reporting any issues to supervisors. Collaboration with other team members, such as quality control staff and maintenance technicians, is common to ensure efficient production and adherence to safety standards.

What is a helper machine operator?

Helper Machine Operators assist main machine operators in manufacturing and production settings. Their duties typically include setting up machinery, loading materials, monitoring machine performance, and performing basic maintenance or cleaning. They also help ensure products meet quality standards and may record production data. This role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently. No formal education is usually required, but on-the-job training is common.

What is the difference between Helper Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectHelper Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; certification or training often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, construction sitesFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with setup, cleaning, and basic operationOperate machinery independently, monitor processes, troubleshoot

The Helper Machine Operator typically assists with basic tasks and supports the Machine Operator, who handles more complex machinery operation. Both roles are common in manufacturing environments and require similar credentials, but the Machine Operator has more responsibility and independence in operating equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a helper machine operator?

To thrive as a Helper Machine Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with common manufacturing tools, basic computer systems, and sometimes forklift certification is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in supporting machine operators and maintaining workflow. These skills ensure safe operations, minimize downtime, and contribute to efficient production in manufacturing environments.
What cities near George, IA are hiring for Helper Machine Operator jobs? Cities near George, IA with the most Helper Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Helper Machine Operator job openings in George, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,976 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Equipment Operator - Forklift - 3rd Shift

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Orange City, IA • On-site

$22.45/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 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 Opportunity
A 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 - $22.45/hour
  • $1.00/hour shift differential for 3rd shift
  • Comprehensive 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 machines 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 instructions

  • Perform a task requiring continuous/repetitive movement, including grasping, pinching hands, flexing, and extending arms

  • Stand on concrete and/or platforms for up to a 12-hour shift

  • Work around animal blood and/or carcass parts

  • Work with a knife (if trained)

  • Work in cold areas (approximately 20-40 degrees) and/or warm areas (over 100 degrees)

  • Work in an environment that is wet and humid

  • Work while wearing a hard hat, hearing/eye protection, and steel-toed safety shoes

  • Work in a noisy environment using personal protective equipment (PPE)

  • Work with sanitation/cleaning chemicals

  • Work around strong smells/odors

  • Climb/move on ladders, steps, stairways, walkways and platforms

  • Bend, stoop, and twist repetitively over the course of an entire shift

  • Walk long distances

  • May require certification in order to operate various pieces of equipment required for the position

  • This 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.
Relocation Package AvailableNo
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.