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Machine Operator Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Power Brace Manufacturing

Machine Operator

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Machine Operator Hiring for all shifts! 1st shift, 2nd shift, or 3rd shift. Join a dependable, growing company with opportunities for promotion and leadership! Master ...

Power Brace LLC

Machine Operator

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Machine Operator Hiring for all shifts! 1st shift, 2nd shift, or 3rd shift. Join a dependable, growing company with opportunities for promotion and leadership! Master Dowel Manufacturing is an ...

Master Dowel

Machine Operator

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Description Machine Operator Hiring for all shifts! 1st shift, 2nd shift, or 3rd shift. Join a dependable, growing company with opportunities for promotion and leadership! Master Dowel Manufacturing ...

Sika

Machine Operator

Ames, IA

Sika is looking for an experienced Machine Operator to join its growing Ames, IA Colorbiotics team. Responsibilities include: * Works with various raw materials in the manufacture of products.

Sika AG

Machine Operator

Ames, IA

$21/hr

Sika is looking for an experienced Machine Operator to join its growing Ames, IA Colorbiotics team. Responsibilities include: * Works with various raw materials in the manufacture of products.

Sika AG

Machine Operator

Ames, IA · On-site

$21/hr

Sika is looking for an experienced Machine Operator to join its growing Ames, IA Colorbiotics team. Responsibilities include: * Works with various raw materials in the manufacture of products.

Tuson Manufacturing Company

Be Seen First

CNC Machine Operator, Experienced and Entry level

Story City, IA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Experienced CNC Machine Operator Requirements A skilled and detail-oriented CNC Machine Operator with proven experience in operating, setting up, and maintaining CNC machinery. The ideal candidate ...

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Machine Operator information

See Ames, IA salary details

$9

$15

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How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Ames, IA is $15.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Do Machine Operators Do?

Machine operators are skilled in operating machinery, often specializing in one type of machinery or industry to become an expert. Machine operators also have a general skillset, knowing how to operate a wide range of industrial machinery. Since there are numerous industries and sectors that use a multitude of machinery, there is always room to learn more.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or CNC machinery are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators quickly address issues and maintain productivity. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient machine operation and minimizing production downtime.

What are some common challenges faced by machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Machine operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and meeting production deadlines. Addressing these issues usually involves diligent machine maintenance, following safety protocols, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Many companies provide ongoing training to help operators stay up to date with new machinery and processes, fostering a supportive environment for troubleshooting and skill development.

What are machine operators?

Machine operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing or production processes. They ensure equipment runs efficiently and safely, monitor machine output, and perform routine inspections or minor repairs as needed. Machine operators often work with specialized equipment and are trained to follow safety protocols and quality standards. Their role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and meeting production targets.

What is the difference between Machine Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectMachine OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, production linesConstruction sites, mining, heavy machinery operation
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, assemblyConstruction, mining, transportation
Job FocusOperating specific machinery like presses, lathes, or CNC machinesOperating heavy equipment like bulldozers, cranes, or excavators

While both roles involve operating machinery, Machine Operators typically work with manufacturing equipment in factories, focusing on production machinery. Equipment Operators usually handle heavy construction or earth-moving equipment in outdoor environments. The skills and certifications often overlap, but the work settings and machinery types differ significantly.

More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Ames, IA? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Ames, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Ames, IA? For Machine Operator jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you

Machine Operator

Power Brace Manufacturing

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Machine Operator
Hiring for all shifts! 1st shift, 2nd shift, or 3rd shift.
Join a dependable, growing company with opportunities for promotion and leadership!
Master Dowel Manufacturing is an energetic, family-style business. We want you to be part of it! Come grow with us!
We are seeking candidates who are dependable, hard-working, and positive. Candidates will operate machinery so attention to detail and general trade skills are preferred. Our employees enjoy the knowledge and skills they gain from rotating through our many different types of manufacturing equipment:
  • Wire Forming
  • Hydraulic presses
  • Circular Saws
  • Pultrusion Machines
  • And much more!

Benefits:
  • $15 per hour + $1 shift differential
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan with company match
  • Tuition reimbursement

Schedule:
  • 8-hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Overtime available

Qualifications:
  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)
  • Manufacturing: 1 year (Preferred)

We are an equal opportunity employer and consider all qualified applicants equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.
Salary Description
From $15.00 per hour

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