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

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 ...

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 ...

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

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

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

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

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

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

Equipment Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

In this role, you will operate heavy machinery and equipment necessary for the construction and ... Equipment Operator: $25 - $35 per hour (based on experience) Daily Per Diem: $120 (Paid daily, 7 ...

Equipment Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

In this role, you will operate heavy machinery and equipment necessary for the construction and ... Equipment Operator: $25 - $35 per hour (based on experience) Daily Per Diem: $120 (Paid daily, 7 ...

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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 Sep 12, 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, often with shifts that include nights and weekends.

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, follow safety protocols, and may perform quality checks during production. Proficiency with tools, attention to detail, and adherence to safety standards are essential in this role.

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:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Cedar Rapids, IA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,218 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Machine Operator - 2nd shift

Norway, IA • On-site

Frontier Co-op
Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$16 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate equipment on production lines and make adjustments to ensure quality finished products.

  • Perform tasks such as boxing, filling, labeling, cleaning, and disassembling machinery as part of the production process.

  • Complete documentation, monitor quality and food safety, and communicate issues or improvement suggestions.


Frontier Co-op rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
SUMMARY
Performs all tasks involved in the production of Frontier's products. Follows standard processes, and practices safe work habits to ensure that production is as efficient and safe as possible. Performs general tasks in the area such as boxing, filling, labeling, and cleaning. Communicates respectfully and honestly to others.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Expected to be available to work in all areas of production or distribution and are expected to operate equipment on lines at least 50% of their hours worked.
• Makes equipment adjustments as needed to ensure a quality finished product. Must be able to perform major production line changeovers without the help of maintenance staff.
• Comes into contact with and handles powerful rare earth magnets.
• Performs special packaging projects as scheduled.
• Maintains equipment in accordance with SOP's and preventative maintenance schedules, and is required to train others in performing the job effectively.
• Works with production planning on a daily basis to help determine an efficient production schedule.
• Cases and palletizes finished product for inventory.
• Operates material handling, packaging, and processing equipment.
• Samples product for quality control checks.
• Visually inspects materials and supplies for defects; reports defective materials or questionable conditions to supervisor.
• Completes necessary documentation, including worksheets and computerized tracking systems for each product.
• Verifies product and supplies are accurate.
• Disassembles, cleans, and reassembles machinery.
• Uses and maintains familiarity with assembly, packaging, and measuring tools.
• Works with other departments to resolve problems as they arise.
• Works with Quality Assurance to monitor Statistical Process Controls and other quality related issues.
• Has a critical role in assuring food safety and quality.
• Responsible for monitoring critical control points and reporting any non-conformances related to food safety and quality to supervisor.
• Proactively communicates continual improvement suggestions.
• Follows safety, sanitation, production, quality and food safety procedures.
• Strives to reduce waste, recycle products whenever possible, and re-use resources when practical.
• Works safely at all times, follows safety rules and policies and participates in scheduled training.
• Reports injuries and near misses promptly and in required detailed format; proposes corrective action.
• Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
High school diploma or general education degree (GED). Must be able to perform basic math.
LANGUAGE SKILLS
• Ability to read and comprehend moderately detailed instructions, short correspondence, or memos; including operating procedures or safety rules.
• Ability to write simple correspondence.
• Ability to speak effectively in one-on-one and small group situations with a limited group of people.
QUANTITATIVE SKILLS
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to interpret bar graphs.
OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES
• Ability to train others in general manufacturing.
• Attention to detail and ability to cooperate and work within a team concept
• Ability to operate (or learn to operate) various types of machinery.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and/or fingers to type, handle, or feel. The employee frequently is required to stand, sit, climb stairs, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to walk; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job may include close vision and color vision - necessary to distinguish product quality and detect defects and debris in raw materials.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to airborne particles or strong fumes, notably fumes from alcohol, the scooping or pouring of herbs and spices, and essential oils. The employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals, and risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

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