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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

PRICE ELECTRIC

Equipment Operator (Utility)

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate and maintain heavy equipment, tooling, and related machinery * Secure equipment for ... will assist with CDL training and testing costs * Ability to safely operate and maintain HDD ...

Elplast America Inc

Weekend Production Operator

Marion, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

... machine operation duties on 3 lines · Record and maintain accurate written and electronic ... entries · Assist in inventory accuracy and quality implementation · Perform sanitation and ...

Central Processing

Forklift Operator - Yard Team

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate equipment to load, stack, and retrieve materials and supplies * Assist with aggregate ... Machine Operation * Inventory Management * Material Handling * Leadership * Communication

Magna

CMM Operator, 2nd shift

Williamsburg, IA · On-site

Able to use Brown & Sharp DCC Coordinate Measuring Machine. * Able to demonstrate understanding of ... to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our Workday system. These ...

County Materials

Forklift Operator - Yard Team

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate equipment to load, stack, and retrieve materials and supplies * Assist with aggregate ... Machine Operation * Inventory Management * Material Handling * Leadership * Communication

Magna

CMM Operator, 2nd shift

Williamsburg, IA · On-site

Able to use Brown & Sharp DCC Coordinate Measuring Machine. * Able to demonstrate understanding of ... to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our Workday system. These ...

Martin Marietta

Part Time Equipment Operator-Utility

Ely, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... * Assist on plant maintenance and repairs as needed * Other mining related duties as required ... Knowledge of machines and tools including their design, use and maintenance Physical Abilities

Aerotek

Mold Setter

Iowa City, IA

$23.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... * Assist with changeovers between different molds and products, ensuring accurate setup and ... Experience operating production machinery in a manufacturing setting. * Ability to read and ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Maintenance Assistant

Coralville, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Cleans warehouse floors, offices, break room, and restrooms by operating self-propelled floor scrubbing machinery, and by sweeping, mopping, spraying, and wiping. Follows departmental procedures and ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Maintenance Assistant

Coralville, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Cleans warehouse floors, offices, break room, and restrooms by operating self-propelled floor scrubbing machinery, and by sweeping, mopping, spraying, and wiping. Follows departmental procedures and ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Maintenance Assistant

Coralville, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Cleans warehouse floors, offices, break room, and restrooms by operating self-propelled floor scrubbing machinery, and by sweeping, mopping, spraying, and wiping. Follows departmental procedures and ...

Jersey Mike's Subs

Assistant Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Use specific kitchen machinery such as knives, grills, slicers, etc. * Ensure restaurant ... Experience: * Management: 1 year (Preferred) This website is not operated by Jersey Mike ...

Aerotek

General Production Worker

Iowa City, IA

$13.25 - $16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... * Assist with bagging operations to fill, seal, and prepare individual bags of feed for shipment ... Use powered lift equipment and other machinery as required, following all safety and operating ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Assistant JobsMachine Operator Assistant Jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Cedar Rapids, IA salary details

$13

$18

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Cedar Rapids, IA is $18.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $18.85 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA?

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

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

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

Machine Operator Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Cedar Rapids, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,659 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Equipment Operator (Utility)

Price Industrial Electric, Inc.

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

PRICE ELECTRIC is seeking a skilled, team-focused Equipment Operator - Utility to support horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations. This role is ideal for a dependable operator who takes pride in organized, high-quality work and values safety, teamwork, and consistency. The position supports underground utility installations across Central and Eastern Iowa.


What You'll Do:

  • Review and understand project plans, specifications, and expectations using company applications and digital tools
  • Plan and execute accurate jobsite setups, including bore rig positioning, down-hole tooling selection, and fluid mixing
  • Operate HDD drilling equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar)
  • Proficiently locate the driller using locating equipment (e.g., DCI)
  • Operate and maintain heavy equipment, tooling, and related machinery
  • Secure equipment for transport and, if properly licensed, haul equipment to and from job sites
  • Perform installations of varying size and complexity while meeting quality and production standards
  • Set up, maintain, and monitor traffic control as required
  • Complete job hazard analyses and adhere to all company safety policies and PPE requirements
  • Communicate clearly and effectively with crew members and leadership (plans, logs, updates, etc.)Maintain clean, organized jobsites, trucks, and equipment

What We're Looking For:

  • Previous experience as a HDD Locator and/or Drill Operator preferred
  • Experience operating mini excavators/backhoes, skid loaders, trenchers, small power equipment, etc.
  • Valid Class A CDL
    • If an otherwise qualified candidate with a valid Driver License agrees to obtain a Class A CDL within the introductory period, the company will assist with CDL training and testing costs
  • Ability to safely operate and maintain HDD equipment and tooling
  • Strong understanding of underground utility locating and excavation practices
  • Knowledge of underground fiber and power cable installation processes
  • Strong commitment to safety policies and procedures
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills
  • Clean driving record and safe driving habits
  • Ability to work well as part of a team in a fast-paced field environment


This position requires working in the elements, up to and including all seasons and all indoor and outdoor environments. Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required when working in specific environments.

The individual must have the ability to regularly lift 50+ lbs, stand, walk, climb, squat, kneel, sit, use feet and hands for grasping, pushing and pulling.


Why Price Electric?

Join a team focused on safety, teamwork, and high-quality workmanship while working on meaningful projects.

  • Competitive wages paid weekly
  • Company provided vision, disability & life insurance
  • Elective medical, dental, life & accident insurance
  • Paid time off & holidays
  • 401k with company match
  • Company clothing, tool discounts and boot & eyewear reimbursements
  • Provided Continuing Education classes and job training & development
  • High quality resources/specialty equipment and systems
  • Numerous career growth opportunities for high performers


Employment is contingent upon passing a drug test and background check.

PRICE ELECTRICis an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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