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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Sergeant Bluff, IA

... 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 Sergeant Bluff, IA salary details

$13

$18

$22

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Sergeant Bluff, IA is $18.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $19.66 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 Sergeant Bluff, IA are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs? Cities near Sergeant Bluff, IA with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Assistant job openings in Sergeant Bluff, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,304 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Highrise Forklift Operator

Guida's Dairy

Le Mars, IA

$26.90/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Our DFA/Kemps Dairy has immediate job openings for fast paced and motivated Vacation Relief operators to perform any combination of picking, pulling, and building orders, palletizing products, loading, unloading, and staging materials for outgoing delivery, and working any station or line that is assigned. Additionally, warehouse operators are responsible for safely operating various material and handling equipment and machinery within a warehouse, cooler, freezer or dock environment.

DFA/Kemps Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative owned by more than 12,500 family farmers. Our mark matters and it represents the wholesomeness of dairy that we share with our communities and loved ones. DFA manufactures a variety of dairy products, including cheese, butter, fluid milk, ice cream, dairy ingredients and more, under well-known and established regional brands. Our fingerprints touch thousands of brands across the marketplace, and we're passionate about delivering the simple pleasures of dairy to people everywhere, straight from our family farm-owners. At Oak Farms Dairy we create products that we are proud to provide families with fresh, delicious dairy.

By joining DFA, you can help us continue to make a difference that matters. We care deeply about the well-being of our neighbors and friends, and we celebrate the diversity of our company and our world. It takes an incredible team to deliver the goodness of dairy and enrich our communities - come join us!

OUR OPERATORS MAKE:

  • $26.90 per hour

SCHEDULE: Tuesday - Saturday 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM, with Sunday/Monday Off

BENEFITS:

  • 401(k) with company contribution
  • Competitive pay
  • Paid vacation and holidays*
  • Career growth opportunities - we promote from within!
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits
  • Service recognition and employee rewards*
  • Employee referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement*
  • Uniforms provided
  • Work for dairy farm families

REQUIREMENTS:

  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Able to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimal
  • Effective verbal and written communications skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Must be able to pass all pre-employment screenings including drug, background and criminal checks
  • Must be able to stand, walk, pull, push, reach and bend virtually the entire shift
  • Must be ableto lift up to 50 pounds and assist others when lifting is necessary and manually stack and move cases up to 6-8 cases high
  • Must be able to work in a wet environment and work in an environment where temperature is maintained at 35-40 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Must be willing to work flexible hours including overtime, weekends and holidays
  • May occasionally be exposed to cleaning chemicals

An Equal Opportunity Employer