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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Colona, IL (NOW HIRING)

Cargill

Warehouse Operator

Buffalo, IA

$21/hr

... assist others * Operate equipment and machines such as hand trucks, forklift, high-lift mobile ... Experience operating a forklift and/or warehousing experience * Experience with SAP and/ or ...

Cargill

Warehouse Operator

Buffalo, IA · On-site

$21/hr

... assist others * Operate equipment and machines such as hand trucks, forklift, high-lift mobile ... Experience operating a forklift and/or warehousing experience * Experience with SAP and/ or ...

Cargill

Warehouse Operator

Buffalo, IA

$21/hr

... assist others * Operate equipment and machines such as hand trucks, forklift, high-lift mobile ... Experience operating a forklift and/or warehousing experience * Experience with SAP and/ or ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Davenport, IA · On-site

Learn and assist on vehicle check in tasks as needed. * Supports and assists with Yard Staff ... Experience operating heavy machinery. * Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset.

Aerotek

Forklift Operator

Davenport, IA

$17/hr

Pick and pack products of various sizes, from small handheld boxes to thousand-pound machine parts ... Support order picking, packaging, and general warehouse labor tasks as needed. * Assist with ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Davenport, IA · On-site

$16.04 - $20.05/hr

Learn and assist on vehicle check in tasks as needed. * Supports and assists with Yard Staff ... Experience operating heavy machinery. * Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset.

Eaton

CNC Machinist - 2nd Shift

Davenport, IA · On-site

$31.25/hr

... performing set-up and operating CNC machine tools, checking processed work against job ... To request a disability-related reasonable accommodation to assist you in your job search ...

Hodge

Forklift Operator-3rd Shift

Davenport, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

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 ...

Hodge

Forklift Operator-1st Shift

Davenport, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

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 ...

Hodge

Forklift Operator-1st Shift

Davenport, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

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 ...

Hodge

Forklift Operator-3rd Shift

Davenport, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

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 ...

Hodge

Forklift Operator-3rd Shift

Davenport, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

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 ...

Hodge

Forklift Operator-1st Shift

Davenport, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

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 ...

Invio Automation

Machinist

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

... lift-assist & secure tools for safety critical applications. DESCRIPTION A machinist must be able ... Move machine controls to lower tools to work pieces and to engage automatic feeds * Turn valves and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Assistant JobsMachine Operator Assistant Jobs in Colona, IL

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Colona, IL salary details

$12

$17

$20

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Colona, IL is $17.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $17.84 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 cities near Colona, IL are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs? Cities near Colona, IL with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:
Machine Operator Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Colona, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,658 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Warehouse Operator

Cargill

Buffalo, IA

$21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Cargill rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 220 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 49 rated food wholesalers

Job description

Cargill is a family company committed to providing food and agricultural solutions to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. We sit at the heart of the supply chain, partnering with producers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living. By providing customers with life's essentials, we enable businesses to grow, communities to prosper, and consumers to live well.

This position is in our Food Enterprise where we are committed to serving food manufacturers, food service customers, and retailers with a complete range of innovative ingredients and branded products. Our portfolio includes poultry, beef, egg, alternative protein, salt, oils, starches, sweeteners, cocoa and chocolate.

Job Type: Full Time

Shift(s) Available: 3rd Shift

Compensation: $21.00/hr

New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant Ana at careers.cargill.com or text CargillJobs to 60196.

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription 
  • Drug Insurance
  • Health and Wellness Incentives
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401(k) with Cargill matching contributions
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Discounts

Principal Accountabilities:

  • Move, receive and ship product or materials per written and computerized materials, record transactions into computerized systems and provide support to others under occasional guidance
  • Receive incoming goods verifying packaging documentation against shipment records and checks for damages generally following standard procedures using judgement in more complex issues
  • Gather, weigh, prepare, verify and document items for shipment according to specifications and the applicable transportation method, including recording received and shipped items, following standard procedures using judgement in more complex issues
  • Ensure safe storage of product in the warehouse, minimizing damage, utilizing in-depth understanding to perform required duties and assist others
  • Operate equipment and machines such as hand trucks, forklift, high-lift mobile equipment, palletizer, stretch-film wrapper, labeler or conveyors in order to stack or wrap materials to move materials, store product and prepare product for shipment
  • Perform housekeeping duties and general warehouse maintenance
  • Understand and adhere to all safety policies and procedures, maintains a safe and clean work environment
  • Operate packaging equipment (palletizer, stretch-film wrapper, labeler and conveyors) used to stack and wrap materials prior to warehousing
  • Uphold personal safety requirements to support "Safe People" and zero incidents"
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

  • Right to work in the U.S. that is not based solely on possession of a student visa or a visa sponsored by a third-party employer
  • Cargill requires employees to be a minimum of 18 years old to work in a production facility
  • Ability to understand and communicate in English (verbal/written)
  • Basic use of a computer
  • Ability to work in varied indoor and outdoor conditions, which may include heat, cold, dust, loud noise, etc., with the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Ability to perform physical job duties, including bending, kneeling, climbing, sweeping, driving, mounting/dismounting a forklift truck, and infrequently lifting up to 50 pounds, with or without a reasonable accommodation
  • Ability to work overtime, including weekends, holidays, or different shifts with advance notice (sometimes up to 12 hours)
  • Must be able to operate machinery and/or industrial equipment

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience operating a forklift and/or warehousing experience
  • Experience with SAP and/ or warehouse inventory management systems
  • High school diploma/GED or a minimum of two years of equivalent work experience

Considered candidates will receive a phone call from a (952) area code. Please note that this position does not include relocation reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet

What Cargill employees say

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About Cargill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cargill was founded in 1865 as a single grain warehouse in Iowa, U.S. Since then, we’ve grown to become a global partner connecting people around the planet. But one thing has remained constant over the years: our purpose of nourishing the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way. Cargill is committed to conducting business with integrity, operating responsibly, enriching communities and nourishing the world. In the fiscal year 2021, Cargill provided $110.5 million in total charitable contributions in 56 countries to support our communities. Cargill businesses and employee-led groups partner with local civic, nonprofit and non-governmental organizations on programs and projects that improve food security and nutrition; support human rights, equity and inclusion; strengthen farmer livelihoods; and advance our commitments in the areas of land use, water and climate.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

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