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Machine Operator Jobs in Burlington, IA (NOW HIRING)

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Machine Operator information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Burlington, IA is $17.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $18.75 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 cities near Burlington, IA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Burlington, IA with the most Machine Operator job openings:

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Burlington, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,411 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

The Scotts Miracle Gro Company

Fort Madison, IA • On-site

$21.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

ScottsMiracle-Gro rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

295th of 540 rated manufacturers

Job description

Here at Scotts Miracle-Gro there is no such thing as a typical day. Our culture is constantly energized by new and exciting growth opportunities and at a rapid pace. Below are details on an open job. If the role interests you and you would like to be considered we encourage you to apply!

This hourly role follows the Scotts/Hawthorne step pay progression scale and typically starts at $21.60 per hour and is paid weekly. Scotts/Hawthorne will consider various factors in determining the actual pay including your skills, qualifications, experience, and geographical location.

$500 SIGN ON BONUS!

We are looking for a Machine Packaging Operator who will join our Liquids Manufacturing team in Ft. Madison, IA.

Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control automated liquid bottle filling machinery and feed components onto assembly conveyors and other equipment. If you're looking for a fast paced, high energy environment, this could be the role for you!

What you'll do in this role:

  • The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing various tasks associated with the packaging of liquid products and operating various packaging machines on production lines.

  • Adhere to plant safety rules and programs as it pertains to self and all other associates, including performing audits, safety suggestions, and participation in safety rotation of jobs.

  • Operates and tends automated machinery that performs one or more liquid bottling packaging functions, to assist in meeting assembly line production schedules.

  • Ability to learn multiple pieces of automated equipment and flexibility to move to different machinery daily.

  • Feed components onto assembly conveyor, into hoppers, machinery or other devices to maintain continuous production. Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts, bottles, caps, labels, sprayers, etc., avoiding breaks in production assembly process.

  • Manually assemble/install various liquid packaging component parts including but not limited to sprayers, caps, box dividers, cases, display units, etc.

  • Clean, lubricate, reassemble, install, troubleshoot and adjust assembly line equipment to meet yearly and daily maintenance requirements and to complete frequent reconfiguration of assembly lines in preparation for changing product runs.

  • Effectively communicate and relay information to peers and supervisors concerning the performance of the production line as it pertains to the assembly, operation and performance of the line.

  • Continuously look for methods, procedural changes, or equipment modifications to improve line output and efficiencies and communicate appropriately.

  • Perform various manufacturing inspection protocols to ensure plant quality standards on liquid packaging products and display units.

What you'll need to be successful:

  • High School Diploma / GED, preferred.

  • Minimum 1 year experience as a machine operator, production operator or equivalent position in a high speed manufacturing environment preferred.

  • Basic math skills, mechanical aptitude, ability to make decisions regarding equipment adjustments to meet product specifications and quality conformity.

  • Ability to follow the directions provided in verbal or non-verbal format.

  • Demonstrate a willingness to learn multiple machines or operations.

  • Must be a team player and promote teamwork amongst productions lines, departments and shifts.

  • Available to work any shift and overtime as needed.

What we do for you (just to name a few cool ones):

  • Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, holidays, vacation and sick time benefits available within a month of your start date

  • Healthcare navigation, advocacy and support

  • 401(k) company match up to 7.5% with immediate participation and vesting

  • Ability to purchase company stock at a 15% discounted price from market value

  • $600 annual wellness reimbursement program

  • Up to $30,000 to help cover the cost of fertility treatments, adoption or surrogacy

  • Up to 18 weeks of time away to support your growing family

  • To view all of our great benefits, click here!

* Eligibility for the above benefits may vary based on full-time/part-time status or additional factors.

Not interested in this role? Stay up to date on future opportunities by joining our ScottsMiracle-Gro and Hawthorne Gardening talent communities.

Scotts is an EEO Employer, dedicated to a culturally diverse, drug free workplace.

EEO/AA Employer/Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity

Notification to Agencies:

Please note that the Scotts Miracle-Gro company does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Master Service Agreement, and specific approval to submit resumes to an approved requisition, the Scotts Miracle-Gro company will not consider or approve payment regarding recruiter fees or referral compensations.

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