ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Operator Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Priority Envelope

Envelope Machine Operator

Nevada, IA · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

This role involves operating machinery, inspecting products, and adhering to safety and quality standards to meet production goals and maintain our commitment to excellence. Key Responsibilities ...

Hearst UK

Mail Machine Operator

Boone, IA · On-site

$19/hr

Job Title Mail Processing Operator Regularly operate mail machines to process in-bound mail, including mail sorter, auto extractor imager, transport scanner, and/or sit-down extractor/scanners. Sit ...

Hearst Newspapers

Mail Machine Operator

Boone, IA

$19/hr

Loads mail onto machine, selects appropriate job according to established guidelines, and runs mail through the machine. * Work needs to be performed with a sense of urgency due to production ...

Hearst

Mail Machine Operator

Boone, IA · On-site

$19/hr

Loads mail onto machine, selects appropriate job according to established guidelines, and runs mail through the machine. * Work needs to be performed with a sense of urgency due to production ...

Hearst

Mail Machine Operator

Boone, IA · On-site

$19/hr

Loads mail onto machine, selects appropriate job according to established guidelines, and runs mail through the machine. * Work needs to be performed with a sense of urgency due to production ...

Hearst

Mail Machine Operator

Boone, IA · On-site

$19/hr

Loads mail onto machine, selects appropriate job according to established guidelines, and runs mail through the machine. * Work needs to be performed with a sense of urgency due to production ...

CDS Global

Mail Machine Operator

Boone, IA

$19/hr

Loads mail onto machine, selects appropriate job according to established guidelines, and runs mail through the machine. * Work needs to be performed with a sense of urgency due to production ...

Hearst

Mail Machine Operator

Boone, IA · On-site

$19/hr

Loads mail onto machine, selects appropriate job according to established guidelines, and runs mail through the machine. * Work needs to be performed with a sense of urgency due to production ...

Hearst Newspapers

Mail Machine Operator

Boone, IA · On-site

$19/hr

Loads mail onto machine, selects appropriate job according to established guidelines, and runs mail through the machine. * Work needs to be performed with a sense of urgency due to production ...

Hearst Newspapers

Mail Machine Operator

Boone, IA

$19/hr

Loads mail onto machine, selects appropriate job according to established guidelines, and runs mail through the machine. * Work needs to be performed with a sense of urgency due to production ...

Hearst Newspapers

Mail Machine Operator

Boone, IA

$19/hr

Loads mail onto machine, selects appropriate job according to established guidelines, and runs mail through the machine. * Work needs to be performed with a sense of urgency due to production ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Ames, IA

Machine Operator information

See Ames, IA salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Ames, 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 is a machine operator?

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 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 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 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 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.

How much do you get paid as a machine operator?

The average salary for a machine operator in the United States ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $25,000, while experienced operators with certifications can earn over $60,000 annually. Many machine operators work full-time shifts, often requiring knowledge of specific machinery and safety protocols.

What is the work of a machine operator?

A machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining industrial machinery to produce goods or components. They monitor equipment for proper functioning, perform quality checks, and follow safety protocols, often using tools like control panels and gauges. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and sometimes certification or training in specific machinery.
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 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
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,020 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Machine Operator

Power Brace LLC

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$15/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

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.

Requirements:


Apply