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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Iowa City, IA

CNC Machinist 1 - 2nd shift

Cedar Rapids, IA

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... assist, structural web processes as well as aluminum limited-production injection molds. As the #1 ... Machine Operator, you are the backbone of our manufacturing company. Your job is to operate the ...

CNC Machinist 1 - 2nd shift

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... assist, structural web processes as well as aluminum limited-production injection molds. As the #1 ... Machine Operator, you are the backbone of our manufacturing company. Your job is to operate the ...

Extruder Operator

Wilton, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

The Extruder Operator is responsible for operating extrusion lines to manufacture pipe in ... Assist with machine changeovers. • Measure pipe specifications and report any issues to the ...

Extruder Operator

Wilton, IA

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

The Extruder Operator is responsible for operating extrusion lines to manufacture pipe in ... Assist with machine changeovers. • Measure pipe specifications and report any issues to the ...

Equipment Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will operate heavy machinery and equipment necessary for the construction and ... Perform daily inspections of equipment and report any malfunctions or maintenance needs. * Assist ...

Equipment Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate various types of heavy machinery, including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and forklifts ... Perform daily inspections of equipment and report any malfunctions or maintenance needs. * Assist ...

Equipment Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will operate heavy machinery and equipment necessary for the construction and ... Perform daily inspections of equipment and report any malfunctions or maintenance needs. * Assist ...

CNC Machinist 1 - 2nd shift

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... assist, structural web processes as well as aluminum limited-production injection molds. As the #1 ... Machine Operator, you are the backbone of our manufacturing company. Your job is to operate the ...

Backhoe Operator

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$43K - $57K/yr

Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand ... Lead a crew, delegate work within work scope, and assist crews with necessary labor on an as-needed ...

... gas assist and structural web processes. We also design and build aluminum injection molds for ... The intern will be assigned tasks that are not directly related to operating machinery but will be ...

... gas assist and structural web processes. We also design and build aluminum injection molds for ... The intern will be assigned tasks that are not directly related to operating machinery but will be ...

... gas assist and structural web processes. We also design and build aluminum injection molds for ... The intern will be assigned tasks that are not directly related to operating machinery but will be ...

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Machine Operator Assistant information

See Iowa City, IA salary details

$13

$18

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Iowa City, IA is $18.10, 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 Iowa City, IA?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Iowa City, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,463 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Machine Operator Helper

New Leader Manufacturing

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

The Machine Operator Helper assists the machine operator with set up, operation, and organization of finished materials for the next production operation. Assist with operations on the Laser, Press Brake, and other machines as needed.

Key Responsibilities

RESULTS

Critical 55%

  • Assists with set-up and operation of production machines; including laser and press brake
  • Safely and efficiently handles materials during operation.
  • Examines completed work to verify conformance to work orders along with all areas of quality and adjusts machinery as necessary to correct any issues.
  • Utilizes a crane to position raw flat sheets of steel onto brake bed or cutting table.

Productivity / Job Knowledge 20%

  • Installs machine change parts to meet new product specifications.
  • Assists with training of others as directed.
  • Keeps work area clean and orderly, performs required PM’s on machines and equipment and reports all non-conformities to Line Lead, Supervisor or Maintenance until the problem has been rectified.

Dependability 15%

  • Demonstrates a good attendance record; is aware of the impact that missing work will have on the customer as well as co-workers.
  • Completes goals/projects on time or ahead of schedule.
  • Responds to work assignments and requests by being cooperative and available.
  • Follows through and meets commitments.
  • Available as a resource to subordinates and/or peers.

Safety 10%

  • Follows safety procedures, protocols, policies, and adheres to all SAFESTART concepts, and acts when others are not holding themselves accountable.

Total 100%

CORE VALUES

Act Like an Owner. 20%

  • Leads by example and takes ownership in everything you do and or say.
  • If you see something, say something and follow through until it's right.
  • Treats others with respect and kindness.

Be Interested. Stay Interested. 20%

  • Isn’t complacent. Seizes opportunities to learn by participating in activities to increase understanding.

Create Change. Start With Yourself. 20%

  • Asks "why", is open-minded, and challenges the status quo.
  • Leads and supports changes for the sake of improvement.

Seek New Perspectives. 20%

  • Seeks new perspectives from all available sources to challenge your own, and brings them into your decision making process.
  • Involves all stakeholders in making decisions. Is open to input from all sources.

Fail Fast. Learn Fast. 20%

  • Considers long and short-term outcomes when making decisions.
  • Is fearless.
  • Readily admits mistakes.

Total 100%

Requirements

Qualifications and Essential Skills:

  • 0-1 years of experience; previous manufacturing experience preferred.
  • Basic computer skills are required; must be able to use computer systems to look-up information, clock-in/clock-out, and report work activities. Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook is preferred.
  • Ability to read tape measure up to 1/32”.
  • ERP experience is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

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 essential duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; up to 8 hours in an 8 hour shift. The employee will frequently lift 50 pounds and occasionally lift up to 100 pounds. The employee will push/pull with up to 110 pounds of force. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, walk, or crawl. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. The employee is frequently required to balance, climb ladders, or work on platforms to access elevated equipment.

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, fumes or airborne particles, and vibration, and occasionally exposed to risk of electrical shock. Employee may be exposed to hazardous chemicals. Employee is required to wear steel toed shoes, gloves, and safety glasses. The noise level in the plant shop environment is moderately loud. In addition to standard PPE, welders are required to wear a welding helmet and may be required to wear leather clothing and ear plugs. Handles hazardous waste according to company policy and participates in annual hazardous waste training.