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Machine Operator Jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA (NOW HIRING)

Employbridge

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Packaging Machine Operator

Urbana, IA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Packaging Machine Operators in Urbana Shift: 7am - 3:30pm | Mon-Fri Limited OT, Rare weekends Pay: $18.00- $20.00 / hour This is a hands-on role requiring a strong understanding of machinery and ...

New

ALPLA Group

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 ...

Novolex

Machine Operator - Large Mills

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$29.87/hr

Machine Operator - Large Mills| Cedar Rapids |HIRING IMMEDIATELY Available shift: Monday - Friday, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm / Climate Controlled Incentives: Pay Rate Min = $28.94 3 Months = $29.35 6 Months ...

Novolex

Machine Operator - Large Mills

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$29.87/hr

Machine Operator - Large Mills| Cedar Rapids |HIRING IMMEDIATELY Available shift: Monday - Friday, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm / Climate Controlled Incentives: Pay Rate Min = $28.94 3 Months = $29.35 6 Months ...

Kinze

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 ...

Kinze

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 ...

Career Search

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 ...

Career Search

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Norway, IA

$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 ...

Frontier Co-op

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 ...

Frontier Co-op

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 ...

Novolex

Machine Operator - Sheet Metal

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$29.87/hr

Sheet Metal Operator |Cedar Rapids| HIRING IMMEDIATELY Available shift: Monday-Friday, 7:00 am-3:30 pm / Climate Controlled Incentives: Pay Rate Min = $28.94 3 Months = $29.35 6 Months = $29.87 9 ...

Novolex

Machine Operator - Sheet Metal

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$29.87/hr

Sheet Metal Operator |Cedar Rapids| HIRING IMMEDIATELY Available shift: Monday-Friday, 7:00 am-3:30 pm / Climate Controlled Incentives: Pay Rate Min = $28.94 3 Months = $29.35 6 Months = $29.87 9 ...

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Machine Operator information

See Cedar Rapids, IA salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Cedar Rapids, IA is $17.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.13 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 Cedar Rapids, IA?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA?

For Machine Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA are:

What cities near Cedar Rapids, IA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

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

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Cedar Rapids, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,218 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Packaging Machine Operator

Employbridge

Urbana, IA • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

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Job description

Now Hiring: Packaging Machine Operators in Urbana

Shift: 7am - 3:30pm | Mon-Fri

Limited OT, Rare weekends

Pay: $18.00- $20.00 / hour

This is a hands-on role requiring a strong understanding of machinery and equipment maintenance.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating, setting up, and maintaining machinery to ensure efficient and safe production.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

  • Operating and setting up manufacturing equipment to start and run production cycles.
  • Controlling and adjusting machine settings to meet quality specifications.
  • Feeding raw materials or parts into machinery.
  • Inspecting finished product to ensure they meet quality standards.
  • Testing machines periodically to identify and resolve issues.
  • Troubleshooting machine malfunctions and reporting them to maintenance.
  • Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs to keep equipment running smoothly.
  • Maintain cleanliness of machines and work areas.
  • Follow safely protocols and adhering to all workplace regulations.
  • Keeping activity and production logs.

Qualifications:

  • Proven experience as a Machine Operator, ideally in a similar manufacturing environment.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Safety-conscious mindset
  • Basic computer literacy.
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About employbridge

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The EmployBridge Story EmployBridge is the largest light industrial staffing supplier in the United States and a preeminent resource for professional staffing. We offer local expertise and service through our 400+ branches. EmployBridge offers a competitive benefits package which includes Medical/Dental/Vision, prescription drug benefits, 401(k), paid time off and holidays, a wellness program, and more. We also offer a variety of career paths and encourage promotion from within. At EmployBridge, we operate an entire family of specialty staffing companies that include: Decca, Hire Dynamics, ResourceMFG, Select Staffing, ProLogistix, ProDrivers, RemX Specialty Staffing, Westaff, and Remedy Intelligent Staffing. To find out more, visit us at www.employbridge.com.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Duluth, GA, US

Year founded

1985

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