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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

IHOP Dish Machine Operators (DMO) will be responsible for cleaning and maintaining dishware ... deliveries Assist other staff members with tasks when the need arises Adhere to food safety ...

Our Machine Operator sets up and operates production equipment on an assigned line while ensuring ... Follow and support all safety practices and initiatives * Assist team members as needed and support ...

Our Machine Operator sets up and operates production equipment on an assigned line while ensuring ... Follow and support all safety practices and initiatives * Assist team members as needed and support ...

Sense of ordinary care to prevent material losses or damages to product. * Assist mechanics in trouble shooting/repairing machine. * Do necessary cleaning method between product change as required by ...

Machine Operator - Iowa

Mitchellville, IA

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Sense of ordinary care to prevent material losses or damages to product. * Assist mechanics in trouble shooting/repairing machine. * Do necessary cleaning method between product change as required by ...

IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control ... assist in meeting assembly line production schedules. * Ability to learn multiple pieces of ...

IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

We are looking for a Machine Packaging Operator who will join Scotts Miracle-Gro team in Ft ... assist in meeting assembly line production schedules. * Ability to learn multiple pieces of ...

IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control ... assist in meeting assembly line production schedules. * Ability to learn multiple pieces of ...

Showing results 41-60

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$17

$20

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Iowa is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectMachine Operator AssistantMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in manufacturing or production settings, working alongside machine operatorsOperates machinery directly in manufacturing or industrial environments
Job ResponsibilitiesSupports machine operation, performs basic maintenance, and monitors equipmentControls and manages machinery, ensures quality, and troubleshooting

The Machine Operator Assistant primarily supports and assists the Machine Operator in daily tasks, focusing on preparation and basic maintenance. The Machine Operator takes on the responsibility of running and managing machinery independently. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, but the Machine Operator has more advanced technical duties and decision-making authority.

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

To thrive as a Machine Operator Assistant, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and the ability to use measuring tools or computer systems is often required. Reliability, effective communication, and the ability to work well in a team are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient machine operation and help maintain smooth production processes in manufacturing environments.

What is a machine operator assistant?

Machine Operator Assistants support machine operators by preparing materials, monitoring equipment, and ensuring a smooth production process in manufacturing environments. Their tasks often include loading and unloading materials, cleaning machines, inspecting products for quality, and assisting with machine maintenance. They help maintain efficiency and safety in the workplace and may also document production data or report equipment issues. This role is key for keeping manufacturing lines running smoothly and efficiently.

How much do you get paid as a machine operator assistant?

The average hourly wage for a machine operator assistant typically ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials may also increase total compensation.

What are some common challenges faced by a machine operator assistant, and how can they be overcome?

Machine Operator Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced production environments, ensuring safety compliance, and minimizing machine downtime. To overcome these, it's important to stay attentive to operational protocols, communicate effectively with machine operators and team members, and proactively report any equipment issues. Continuous learning and on-the-job training can also help assistants rapidly build the skills necessary to troubleshoot minor problems and contribute to a smooth workflow.
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 cities in Iowa are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator Assistant jobs in IA? For Machine Operator Assistant jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,134 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

The Scotts Miracle Gro Company

Fort Madison, IA • On-site

$22.05/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


ScottsMiracle-Gro rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

294th of 538 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 $22.05 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 Scotts Miracle-Gro team in Ft. Madison, IA.

3rd Shift hours are Sun-Th, 10pm-6:30am

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.

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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