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Machine Operator Press Operator Jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

As a Machine Operator, you will not just be watching a line-you will actively own and manage the performance of our complex, state-of-the-art production equipment. You will play a vital role in ...

Machine Operator - Small Mills| Cedar Rapids |HIRING IMMEDIATELY Available shift: Monday - Friday ... mill, drill press, radial drill, hone, and Blanchard grinder. The successful candidate is ...

New

Machine Operator - Small Mills| Cedar Rapids |HIRING IMMEDIATELY Available shift: Monday - Friday ... mill, drill press, radial drill, hone, and Blanchard grinder. The successful candidate is ...

New

Machine Operator

Williamsburg, IA · On-site

$25.25 - $26.75/hr

Performs regular first echelon machine maintenance and reports regular first echelon machine maintenance and reports probable machine malfunctions. * Responsible for seeing that functional supplies ...

Machine Operator

Williamsburg, IA · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Performs regular first echelon machine maintenance and reports regular first echelon machine maintenance and reports probable machine malfunctions. * Responsible for seeing that functional supplies ...

Machine Operator

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Assists Machine operator II/Supervisor and Mold Change Team with mold changes as needed * Working together in a Team * Ensure team works together as efficiently as possible * Maintains good ...

CNC Machine Operator

Williamsburg, IA · On-site

$25.25 - $29.05/hr

Our CNC Operators efficiently produce machined parts by operating CNC Machining Centers and/or Lathes. In this position, you will perform part inspections and make machine offsets to ensure parts ...

CNC Machine Operator

Williamsburg, IA

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Our CNC Operators efficiently produce machined parts by operating CNC Machining Centers and/or Lathes. In this position, you will perform part inspections and make machine offsets to ensure parts ...

Machine Operator - 2nd shift

Norway, IA

$16 - $19.50/hr

Disassembles, cleans, and reassembles machinery. Uses and maintains familiarity with assembly ... operating procedures or safety rules. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to speak ...

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Norway, IA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Disassembles, cleans, and reassembles machinery. Uses and maintains familiarity with assembly ... operating procedures or safety rules. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to speak ...

Machine Operator - 2nd shift

Norway, IA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

... and reassembles machinery. • Uses and maintains familiarity with assembly, packaging, and ... or memos; including operating procedures or safety rules. • Ability to write simple ...

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Norway, IA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

... and reassembles machinery. • Uses and maintains familiarity with assembly, packaging, and ... or memos; including operating procedures or safety rules. • Ability to write simple ...

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Machine Operator Press Operator information

See Cedar Rapids, IA salary details

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How much do machine operator press operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator press operator in Cedar Rapids, IA is $17.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $19.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a machine operator press operator do?

A Machine Operator Press Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery that shapes or forms materials—such as metal, plastic, or paper—using a press. They ensure the machines run efficiently, monitor the quality of products, and make adjustments as needed. The role typically involves reading blueprints, performing routine maintenance, and following safety protocols to prevent accidents. Operators may work in manufacturing plants, printing facilities, or metalworking shops, depending on the industry.

How much do machine operator press operators make in the US?

Press machine operators in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $40,000 to $45,000, with experienced operators earning higher salaries. Wages can vary based on industry, location, and level of experience, and operators often need technical skills and safety certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by a machine operator press operator, and how can they be addressed?

Machine Operator Press Operators often encounter challenges such as machine malfunctions, tight production deadlines, and maintaining high-quality output. To address these, operators should become familiar with preventive maintenance routines and troubleshooting techniques, which can help minimize downtime. Effective communication with maintenance teams and supervisors is also essential for quick problem resolution. Additionally, staying organized and following safety protocols ensures a smooth workflow and reduces the risk of errors or accidents.

Is a machine press operator a hard job?

A machine press operator job involves operating heavy machinery, requiring attention to safety protocols and precision. It can be physically demanding and may involve standing for long periods, but it typically requires technical skills and training to ensure proper operation and maintenance of the equipment.

What is the difference between Machine Operator Press Operator vs Machine Setter?

AspectMachine Operator Press OperatorMachine Setter
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training often required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production linesManufacturing facilities, setup areas
Job FocusOperating and monitoring pressesAdjusting and setting up machines
Industry UsageCommon in printing, metal stamping, plasticsCommon in printing, metalworking, plastics

While both roles work within manufacturing environments, the Machine Operator Press Operator primarily operates and monitors presses during production, whereas the Machine Setter focuses on preparing and adjusting machines before operation. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job listing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine operator press operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Operator Press Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with press machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or OSHA training are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you excel in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient operation, minimizing downtime, and maintaining product quality.
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator Press Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA? For Machine Operator Press Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator Press Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator Press Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA are:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Press Operator job openings in Cedar Rapids, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,028 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Machine Operator Helper

New Leader Manufacturing

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


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.