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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Le Mars, IA (NOW HIRING)

Grinder Operator (Second Shift)

Le Mars, IA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Monitor cooling tunnel and make minor adjustments as needed * Assist maintenance with preventative maintenance and minor repairs * Ensure product quality requirements are met * Records appropriate ...

Relief Operator (Third Shift)

Le Mars, IA ยท On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Serve as backup operator for other operator positions * Assist in conducting product quality checks ... Must be able to operate any machine in the plant * Ability to float to other shifts to cover ...

Serve as backup operator for other operator positions * Assist in conducting product quality checks ... Must be able to operate any machine in the plant * Ability to float to other shifts to cover ...

Serve as backup operator for other operator positions * Assist in conducting product quality checks ... Must be able to operate any machine in the plant * Ability to float to other shifts to cover ...

... machinery within a warehouse, cooler, freezer or dock environment. DFA/Kemps Dairy is a farmer ... Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and assist others when lifting is necessary and manually stack ...

... machinery within a warehouse, cooler, freezer or dock environment. DFA/Kemps Dairy is a farmer ... Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and assist others when lifting is necessary and manually stack ...

... machinery within a warehouse, cooler, freezer or dock environment. DFA/Kemps Dairy is a farmer ... Must be ableto lift up to 50 pounds and assist others when lifting is necessary and manually stack ...

... machinery within a warehouse, cooler, freezer or dock environment. DFA/Kemps Dairy is a farmer ... Must be ableto lift up to 50 pounds and assist others when lifting is necessary and manually stack ...

... machinery within a warehouse, cooler, freezer or dock environment. DFA/Kemps Dairy is a farmer ... Must be ableto lift up to 50 pounds and assist others when lifting is necessary and manually stack ...

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Machine Operator Assistant information

See Le Mars, IA salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Le Mars, IA is $17.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $18.22 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 Le Mars, IA are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Le Mars, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% 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 $36,413 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Machine Filler Operator - 1st Shift

Sioux City, IA โ€ข On-site

AMERICAN POP CORN COMPANY CORP
Food and Drink Manufacturingย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$16.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description


The Machine Filler Operator is responsible for operating microwave bag filling machines and wrappers, ensuring accurate corn and oil weights, and maintaining product quality throughout production. Key duties include setting up and monitoring check weighers, performing quality checks every 20 minutes, verifying packaging, print, seals, and handling rejects. The operator also loads microwave bags and documents lot codes and other product information. Typical work hours are 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday through Thursday, and half day Fridays every 3 weeks, with occasional overtime opportunities.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Operate microwave bag filling machines and wrappers efficiently and safely.
  •  Set and adjust corn and oil weights according to the specific product being produced.
  • Set up and monitor check weighers to ensure product consistency.
  • Perform quality checks every 20 minutes, including verifying packaging, print, seals, and identifying rejects.
  • Load microwave bags into machines as needed.
  • Document lot codes and other required product information accurately.
  • Maintain compliance with production schedules and adjust hours as needed to meet customer demands.
  • Identify and report any equipment or product issues promptly.

Qualifications: 

The ideal candidate for the Machine Filler Operator position will have a high school diploma or equivalent, with previous experience operating filling machines or packaging equipment preferred. They should be able to accurately measure and adjust product weights and demonstrate strong attention to detail for performing quality checks and maintaining accurate documentation. A basic understanding of production processes and equipment operation is important, along with the ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks. Strong communication skills, the ability to follow instructions, and flexibility to work varied hours to meet production demands are also required.

 

Skills and Competencies:

The Machine Filler Operator should possess strong technical and mechanical aptitude to operate and adjust filling machines and packaging equipment. Attention to detail and quality awareness are essential for monitoring product weights, packaging, seals, and overall production standards. The role requires good organizational and documentation skills to accurately track lot codes and product information. Physical stamina, the ability to perform repetitive tasks, and adherence to safety protocols are critical. Effective communication, teamwork, and flexibility to adapt to changing production schedules are also important competencies for success in this role.

 

Physical Demands:

This position requires standing throughout the workday. You will need to engage in tasks that require periods of standing and mobility. This role requires twisting, bending and reaching during tasks. Climbing ladders and stairs is necessary to access certain work areas. This role requires adaptability to the changing demands of tasks and responsibilities. Will be occasional lifting, carrying, and moving up to 50 – 60 lbs.

 

General:

Family is the culture of our company. The Jolly Time Family is inclusive and treat each other respectfully and courteously. Our family of employees work together and are engaged to perform as one unit to meet the needs of our customers. Daily activities dictate that at times employees will be required to give assistance to fellow employees and customers outside their general duties and responsibilities. All employees are expected to observe operations to assure quality and sanitation standards are met. All employees are expected to help solve problems as they arise and to assist on the improvement of the efficiency of the Company’s operations. 

Why work with JOLLY TIME popcorn?:

JOLLY TIME has a long history of innovation, hard work and family; all for the sake of making better popcorn. We take pride in every aspect of what we do and want you to taste it in every delicious kernel of JOLLY TIME Pop Corn, the Official Snack of Happiness!

What about benefits?
American Pop Corn Company has an amazing benefits package! Here are just some of our great benefits:
- FREE family health and dental insurance. That's right - JOLLY TIME doesn't charge for these benefits - and it's a major medical plan with full coverage! 
- 401(k) with a 4% match
- 6 paid holidays
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Annual Bonus Program
- Referral Bonus
- & More!

EOE post-offer drug screen required. E-verify. APCC is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.