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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

CNC Operator

Ames, IA · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

The ideal candidate will have experience in machine operation, tool adjustments, and ... * Assist with cross-functional tasks * Maintain a positive work attitude that reflects the UEA Core ...

CNC Operator

Ames, IA · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

The CNC Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring CNC machines to ... * Assist with cross-functional tasks * Maintain a positive work attitude that reflects the UEA Core ...

CNC Operator

Ames, IA · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

The ideal candidate will have experience in machine operation, tool adjustments, and ... * Assist with cross-functional tasks * Maintain a positive work attitude that reflects the UEA Core ...

CNC Operator

Ames, IA

$17 - $23.25/hr

The ideal candidate will have experience in machine operation, tool adjustments, and ... * Assist with cross-functional tasks * Maintain a positive work attitude that reflects the UEA Core ...

Production Flex Crew

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Machine Operator 2 - Requirements and Qualifications: * Assist management with procedures to ensure quality product while seeking cost cutting ideas. * Practices HAACP and Good Manufacturing ...

Production Flex Crew

Ankeny, IA

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Machine Operator 2 - Requirements and Qualifications: * Assist management with procedures to ensure quality product while seeking cost cutting ideas. * Practices HAACP and Good Manufacturing ...

Operate a crane and other heavy machinery, including excavator, loaders, and other large equipment ... Ensure all equipment and tools are cleaned and stored properly and assist with inventory management.

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Machine Operator Assistant information

See Ames, IA salary details

$13

$18

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Ames, IA is $18.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

How to become a machine operator assistant with no experience?

To become a machine operator assistant with no experience, start by gaining basic knowledge of manufacturing processes and safety procedures through online courses or training programs. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training is provided to learn equipment operation and maintenance. Developing skills in attention to detail, manual dexterity, and understanding of tools can improve your chances of securing a position.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Ames, IA?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Ames, IA are:

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,632 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


American Packaging Corporation rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Description

At American Packaging Corporation (APC), you'll find the packaging career you've been looking for. With competitive salaries, excellent benefits, 401(k) plans and tuition reimbursement programs, we nurture our employees while advancing and promoting diversity and inclusion. As the leading flexible packaging converter in North America for over a century, APC's longstanding success is fueled from the inside out. We're constantly seeking to improve our internal operations and were named a "Best of the Best" in the Best workplaces in the America's awards for 12 years in a row. It's how and why we engage the best and brightest talent to continue propelling our shared success into the future.


LOCATION: Story City, IA


SHIFT: 12 hr Nights, 7p-7a


SUMMARY: Assist in daily operations of the Finishing Department.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

  • Participates in training, embrace concepts of and actively practice the STOP Safety Program fundamentals to aid American Packaging Corporation's efforts to achieve a zero-accident rate.
  • Retrieves all necessary set up information/specifications/guidelines and follows instructions on the job jacket.
  • Safely, efficiently and effectively assists with the assigned production machinery equipment monitoring quality, production and waste adhering to all customer specifications.
  • Ensures immediate work area and work areas for which Machine Operator has responsibility are free of clutter and debris. Perform all cleaning/sanitation responsibilities, safely using all required cleaning solutions and protective equipment.
  • Monitors all quality requirements as outlined by company procedure and specification. Completes necessary sheets for quality checks.
  • Actively participates in safety programs and completes required safety observations. Understands and follows plant safety rules.
  • Attends and participates in all scheduled meetings (Continuous Quality Improvement, safety, special projects, departmental, etc.).
  • Able to work all scheduled shifts and required overtime hours.
  • Trains new employees as necessary.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: 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 with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required. Previous manufacturing experience preferred.


LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.


MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.


REASONING ABILITY

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk and reach with hands and arms. This position may require manual lifting not to exceed 50 lbs - reference your department-specific JHA (job hazard analysis) for departmental lifting restrictions. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.


WORK ENVIRONMENT 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to airborne particles and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.


American Packaging Corporation is committed to equal opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. American Packaging Corporation will make reasonable accommodations for known physical or mental limitations of otherwise qualified employees and applicants with disabilities unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. EOE/AA Disability/Veteran.

If you are interested in applying for an employment opportunity and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact our Human Resources department at:

talentacquisition@americanpackaging.com.


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