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

Production Operator I - APC

Dubuque, IA

$15.75 - $19/hr

Ability to prepare and operate all packaging machinery. * Have general knowledge of production ... Ability to assist in all work areas. * Takes on additional responsibility when both big and small ...

Production Operator I - APC

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Ability to prepare and operate all packaging machinery. * Have general knowledge of production ... Ability to assist in all work areas. * Takes on additional responsibility when both big and small ...

Light Equipment Operator

Coggon, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of light construction equipment to assist in the completion of projects. Your expertise in safely and efficiently operating machinery ...

Light Equipment Operator

Coggon, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of light construction equipment to assist in the completion of projects. Your expertise in safely and efficiently operating machinery ...

Forklift Operator

Peosta, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inventory Control : Assist in maintaining accurate inventory records by documenting material ... For jobs requiring heavy machinery: Employees must be at least 18 years old to operate heavy ...

Forklift Operator

Peosta, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inventory Control : Assist in maintaining accurate inventory records by documenting material ... For jobs requiring heavy machinery: Employees must be at least 18 years old to operate heavy ...

Forklift Operator - 1st Shift

Asbury, IA · On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inventory Control: Assist in maintaining accurate inventory records by documenting material ... For jobs requiring heavy machinery: Employees must be at least 18 years old to operate heavy ...

Forklift Operator - 2nd Shift

Peosta, IA

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inventory Control : Assist in maintaining accurate inventory records by documenting material ... For jobs requiring heavy machinery: Employees must be at least 18 years old to operate heavy ...

Forklift Operator - 2nd Shift

Peosta, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inventory Control : Assist in maintaining accurate inventory records by documenting material ... For jobs requiring heavy machinery: Employees must be at least 18 years old to operate heavy ...

Forklift Operator - 2nd Shift

Peosta, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inventory Control : Assist in maintaining accurate inventory records by documenting material ... For jobs requiring heavy machinery: Employees must be at least 18 years old to operate heavy ...

Forklift Operator - 1st Shift

Peosta, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inventory Control : Assist in maintaining accurate inventory records by documenting material ... For jobs requiring heavy machinery: Employees must be at least 18 years old to operate heavy ...

... machining equipment as required * Work with a team of utility and operators to meet fabrication goals and deadlines * Follow safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized work area * Assist in ...

... machining equipment as required * Work with a team of utility and operators to meet fabrication goals and deadlines * Follow safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized work area * Assist in ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Cascade, IA salary details

$12

$17

$20

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Cascade, IA is $17.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $18.03 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 cities near Cascade, IA are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Cascade, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,100 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Production Operator I - APC

APC Worldwide

Dubuque, IA

$15.75 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Promote safety, maintain a sanitary food environment, and ensure that only the highest quality product is made. Work days or nights, 8-hour shifts schedules including weekends and holidays, and overtime as needed.JOB DUTIES:
  • Operate production equipment under the supervision of the shift supervisor as follows:
  • Packaging
  • Monitor product volume, temperatures, times, and pressure readings
  • Monitor gauges and record information as needed
  • Know the type of product, the source, and all the handling procedures involved in each processing procedure.
  • Full understanding of product flow.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, organized work area throughout the facility.
  • Maintain general housekeeping of production areas.
  • Perform tasks of receiving product, starting, running, shutting down, and cleaning the dryer/evaporator and associate equipment.
  • Collect hourly production readings, color, moisture and temperature, monitor bag house, check air pressure, monitor machinery and notify supervisor when something is out of specification.
  • Ensure all charts are charts are properly documented according to company and regulatory regulations.
  • Ensure all paperwork is done correctly and completely.
  • Operate pallet jack and forklift.
  • Prepare bags to fill usingestablished label and numbering system in accordance with procedures.
  • Proficient computer skills to print out packaging labels.
  • Fill, weigh, seal and load bags on pallets (must be able to lift 60 lb. bags 6 feet high).
  • Bag and blend finished powder, weigh and sample product, palletize product and move pallets (may require a forklift or pallet jack).
  • Comply with, and follow, company food safety and quality policies.
  • Adhere to all SOPs, procedures and quality requirements.
  • Perform elementary mechanical and carpentry repairs throughout plant as instructed by supervision.
  • Engage in continuous improvement and process improvement
  • Anticipate problems and implement solutions
  • Demonstrate good judgement in safeguarding customer, company, vendor and employee information.
  • Assume responsibility for the attainment of plant goals and objectives.
  • Maintain cooperative working relationships and communications with employees from all other departments and peers.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to prepare and operate all packaging machinery.
  • Have general knowledge of production/manufacturing methods.
  • Ability to read gauges and record data in a legible manner and in accordance with established procedures.
  • Ability to learn to handle inedible protein materials in accordance with established sanitary procedures and practices.
  • Ability to understand and follow established work procedures, including mandated sanitary and safety guidelines.
  • Must be able to read, write and speak in English, to prepare and comprehend logs, schedules, and communicate with fellow employees.
  • Ability to operate forklift/pallet jack.
  • Ability to perform basic math skills.
  • Ability to move freely throughout plant with sustained physical/mental effort to climb, sample and clean equipment and work areas.
  • Ability to remain calm and professional during peak periods.
  • Ability to troubleshoot malfunctions and situations as they arise, notifying appropriate staff of problems beyond scope of normality.
  • Ability to cooperate with all staff.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Ability to work daily and overtime as necessary.
  • Ability to assist in all work areas.
  • Takes on additional responsibility when both big and small tasks need to be done.
  • Firmly adheres to the values and ethics of APC
  • Willing to work with others, collaborating and compromising when necessary, promptly share relevant information with others
  • Is open to changing situations and is willing to perform all tasks when and where assigned
  • Able and willing to perform task and duties independently
  • Maintains a positive and professional attitude and work ethic
  • Follow all GMPs and work in a manner consistent with all corporate, regulatory, food, safety, quality and sanitation requirements.
BASIC PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Approximate: 12 Hour Day (may be longer during peak season)

Key: Occasional = 0% - 33%

Frequent = 34% - 66%

Continuous = 67% - 100%

N/A = Not Applicable

Standing Continuous

Sitting Occasional

Walking Frequent

Bending/Kneeling/Crouching/Stooping Frequent

Reaching Above Shoulder Frequent

Climbing (stairs, ladders, etc.) Frequent

Confined Spaces Occasional

Working on Heights:

Unprotected Heights Occasional

Protected Heights Occasional

Lifting weights from 1 to 80 lbs. at waist level Frequent

Lifting weights from 1 to 60 lbs. at floor level Frequent

Lifting weights from 1 to 50 lbs. at shoulder level Frequent

Push/Pull/Maneuver Equipment/Products/Materials

Weighing with up to 80 lbs. of force. Frequent

Working with/or Operating Moving Machinery/Equipment Continuous

Operating a Motor Vehicle (as a part of your job) N/A

Read/Monitor Gauges on Various Equipment/Machinery Occasional

Hand Movements:

Recording Data Frequent

Operating Office Equipment N/A

Operating Computer N/A

Simple Grasping (right and left) Frequent

Firm Grasping (right and left) up to 80 lbs of force Frequent

Fine Manipulating (right and left) Occasional

Foot Movements to Operate Foot Controls Occasional

Good Vision, Corrected to Normal; or Ability to Access

Required Information and to Perform Job Duties Yes

Color Definition N/A

Good Hearing, Corrected to Normal; or Ability to Communicate

and/or Understand Required Information and to Perform

Job Duties Yes

Ability to be Mobile throughout Required Work Areas Yes

Office Occasional

Multiple Locations Occasional

PlantContinuous

Equipment/Maintenance or Repair Area Continuous

Rough Terrain Occasional

OtherN/A

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: High School Diploma or GED certificate required.

Experience: Previous work experience in agriculture, production, or manufacturing preferred.

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