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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Columbus City, IA

Fabricator

Mediapolis, IA

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

... micrometers. * Assist with detection of defective material, unusual conditions or operating ... Works in a plant/manufacturing environment that involves the use of industrial machinery and ...

General Production Worker

Iowa City, IA

$13.25 - $16/hr

... * 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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Machine Operator Assistant information

See Columbus City, IA 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 Columbus City, IA is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.74 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 Columbus City, IA are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs? Cities near Columbus City, IA with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Columbus City, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,484 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

$18 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Cornerstone Building Brands rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 124 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

437th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

Company Description

Cornerstone Building Brands is a leading manufacturer of exterior building products for residential and low-rise non-residential buildings in North America. Headquartered in Cary, N.C., we serve residential and commercial customers across the new construction and Repair & Remodel (R&R) markets. Our market-leading portfolio of products spans vinyl windows, vinyl siding, stone veneer, metal roofing, metal wall systems and metal accessories. Cornerstone Building Brands' broad, multi-channel distribution platform and expansive national footprint includes more than 18,800 team members at manufacturing, distribution and office locations throughout North America. Corporate stewardship and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) responsibility are embedded in our culture. We are committed to contributing positively to the communities where we live, work and play. For more information, visit us at http://cornerstonebuildingbrands.com.

Job Description

Base Pay: $18.00 - $19.00 per hour

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Loading Bar material from racks, welding, measuring, and cutting parts to length
  • Operate various CNC-controlled machines, such as presses, lasers, and rolling mills in a fast-paced production setting, with an emphasis on safety and quality
  • Utilize scanning equipment
  • Inspect work visually for defects according to Quality Systems
  • Provide cost-saving suggestions and ideas to improve productivity and eliminate waste
  • Willing/able to work overtime
  • Read a tape measure, write, and follow posted schedules
  • Learn and take on additional tasks as assigned
  • Team player and keeping safety first
Qualifications
  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Previous experience in a related area
  • Must have basic Microsoft knowledge
  • Experience with side forklift, bander, nail gun, overhead crane, saws, stretch wrap machine, and various pneumatic equipment
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on a continual basis above shoulder height and below the waist
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Why work for Cornerstone Building Brands? 

Our teams are at the heart of our purpose to positively contribute to the communities where we live, work and play. Full-time* team members receive** medical, dental and vision benefits starting day 1. Other benefits include PTO, paid holidays, FSA, life insurance, LTD, STD, 401k, EAP, discount programs, tuition reimbursement, training, and professional development. 

*Full-time is defined as regularly working 30+ hours per week. **Union programs may vary depending on the collective bargaining agreement.

Cornerstone Building Brands is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, or status as a protected veteran. You can find the Equal Employment Opportunity Poster here. You can also view Your Right to Work Poster here along with This Organizations Participation in E-Verify Poster here. If you'd like to view a copy of the company's affirmative action plan for protected veterans or individuals with disabilities or policy statement, please contact Human Resources at 281-897-7788 or [email protected]. If you have a disability and you believe that you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or to submit an online application, please contact Human Resources at 281-897-7788 or [email protected]. This email is used exclusively to assist disabled job seekers whose disability prevents them from being able to apply online. Only emails received for this purpose will be returned. Messages left for other purposes, such as following up on an application or technical issues not related to a disability, will not receive a response.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) of 2018

Must be at least 18 years of age to apply.

Note to External Recruiters

Cornerstone Building Brands does not accept unsolicited resumes and will not pay fees for any candidate submissions that were not expressly authorized.

Notice of Recruitment Fraud

We have been made aware of multiple scams whereby unauthorized individuals are using Cornerstone Building Brand's name and logo to solicit potential job-seekers for employment. In some cases, job-seekers are being contacted directly, both by phone and e-mail. In other instances, these unauthorized individuals are placing advertisements for fake positions with both legitimate websites and fabricated ones. These individuals are typically promising high-paying jobs with the requirement that the job-seeker send money to pay for things such as visa applications or processing fees. Please be advised that Cornerstone Building Brands will never ask potential job-seekers for any sort of advance payment or bank account information as part of the recruiting or hiring process.


What Cornerstone Building Brands employees say

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About Cornerstone Building Brands

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cornerstone Building Brands is the largest manufacturer of exterior building products in North America. Our comprehensive portfolio spans the breadth of the residential and commercial markets, while our expansive footprint enables us to serve customers and communities across North America. Our relentless focus on excellence combined with our ongoing commitment to innovation and R&D has driven us to become the #1 manufacturer of windows, vinyl siding, insulated metal panels, metal roofing and wall systems, and metal accessories. We believe every building we create, and every part of that building, positively contributes to communities where people live, work and play.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cary, NC, US

Year founded

1984