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Machine Operator Jobs in Burlington, IA (NOW HIRING)

Machinist

Mediapolis, IA

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Programming, setting up, and operating OKUMA CNC Machine Centers. * Operate both overhead and jib style cranes. * Operating fork trucks and other power equipment. * Ability to operate all machines in ...

Backhoe Operator

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$43K - $57K/yr

Backhoe Operator North American Rail Solutions (NARS) is seeking a skilled Backhoe Operator to ... Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand ...

We are looking for Crane Operators to operate lattice boom crawler cranes as well as various other types of heavy machinery involved in the construction of bridge and/or culvert projects. Crane ...

Operator

Monmouth, IL · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

The MRF Operator is responsible for the safe operation of the heavy equipment at the facility ... Keep machine and cab clean * Monitor materials coming in and report all unacceptable waste to ...

Showing results 41-60

Machine Operator information

See Burlington, IA salary details

$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 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 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.

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 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.

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 cities near Burlington, IA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

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

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

Cornerstone Building Brands

Mount Pleasant, IA • On-site

$18.04 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Cornerstone Building Brands rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 125 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

439th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

Company Description

Cornerstone Building Brands is a leading manufacturer of exterior building products for residential and low-rise non-residential buildings in North America. Headquartered in Cary, N.C., we serve residential and commercial customers across the new construction and Repair & Remodel (R&R) markets. Our market-leading portfolio of products spans vinyl windows, vinyl siding, stone veneer, metal roofing, metal wall systems and metal accessories. Cornerstone Building Brands' broad, multi-channel distribution platform and expansive national footprint includes more than 18,800 team members at manufacturing, distribution and office locations throughout North America. Corporate stewardship and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) responsibility are embedded in our culture. We are committed to contributing positively to the communities where we live, work and play. For more information, visit us at http://cornerstonebuildingbrands.com.

Job Description

Base Pay: $18.04 - $19.00 per hour, plus $1.50 in shift differential

Shift: 2nd Shift (3:30 pm - 12:00 pm)

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Loading Bar material from racks, welding, measuring, and cutting parts to length
  • Operate various CNC-controlled machines, such as presses, lasers, and rolling mills in a fast-paced production setting, with an emphasis on safety and quality
  • Utilize scanning equipment
  • Inspect work visually for defects according to Quality Systems
  • Provide cost-saving suggestions and ideas to improve productivity and eliminate waste
  • Willing/able to work overtime
  • Read a tape measure, write, and follow posted schedules
  • Learn and take on additional tasks as assigned
  • Team player and keeping safety first
Qualifications
  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Previous experience in a related area
  • Must have basic Microsoft knowledge
  • Experience with side forklift, bander, nail gun, overhead crane, saws, stretch wrap machine, and various pneumatic equipment
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on a continual basis above shoulder height and below the waist
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Why work for Cornerstone Building Brands? 

Our teams are at the heart of our purpose to positively contribute to the communities where we live, work and play. Full-time* team members receive** medical, dental and vision benefits starting day 1. Other benefits include PTO, paid holidays, FSA, life insurance, LTD, STD, 401k, EAP, discount programs, tuition reimbursement, training, and professional development. 

*Full-time is defined as regularly working 30+ hours per week. **Union programs may vary depending on the collective bargaining agreement.

Cornerstone Building Brands is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, or status as a protected veteran. You can find the Equal Employment Opportunity Poster here. You can also view Your Right to Work Poster here along with This Organizations Participation in E-Verify Poster here. If you'd like to view a copy of the company's affirmative action plan for protected veterans or individuals with disabilities or policy statement, please contact Human Resources at 281-897-7788 or [email protected]. If you have a disability and you believe that you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or to submit an online application, please contact Human Resources at 281-897-7788 or [email protected]. This email is used exclusively to assist disabled job seekers whose disability prevents them from being able to apply online. Only emails received for this purpose will be returned. Messages left for other purposes, such as following up on an application or technical issues not related to a disability, will not receive a response.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) of 2018

Must be at least 18 years of age to apply.

Note to External Recruiters

Cornerstone Building Brands does not accept unsolicited resumes and will not pay fees for any candidate submissions that were not expressly authorized.

Notice of Recruitment Fraud

We have been made aware of multiple scams whereby unauthorized individuals are using Cornerstone Building Brand's name and logo to solicit potential job-seekers for employment. In some cases, job-seekers are being contacted directly, both by phone and e-mail. In other instances, these unauthorized individuals are placing advertisements for fake positions with both legitimate websites and fabricated ones. These individuals are typically promising high-paying jobs with the requirement that the job-seeker send money to pay for things such as visa applications or processing fees. Please be advised that Cornerstone Building Brands will never ask potential job-seekers for any sort of advance payment or bank account information as part of the recruiting or hiring process.


What Cornerstone Building Brands employees say

Pay

Benefits

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Cornerstone Building Brands logo

About Cornerstone Building Brands

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cornerstone Building Brands is the largest manufacturer of exterior building products in North America. Our comprehensive portfolio spans the breadth of the residential and commercial markets, while our expansive footprint enables us to serve customers and communities across North America. Our relentless focus on excellence combined with our ongoing commitment to innovation and R&D has driven us to become the #1 manufacturer of windows, vinyl siding, insulated metal panels, metal roofing and wall systems, and metal accessories. We believe every building we create, and every part of that building, positively contributes to communities where people live, work and play.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cary, NC, US

Year founded

1984