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Machine Operator Jobs in Dubuque, IA (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Heavy Machine Operator Location: Dubuque, IA Job Type: Full-Time Pay Rate: $18-20/hr Position Overview: We are looking for a dependable Heavy Machine Operator to safely transport and park machinery ...

Equipment Operator

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Heavy Machine Operator Location: Dubuque, IA Job Type: Full-Time Pay Rate: $18-20/hr Position Overview: We are looking for a dependable Heavy Machine Operator to safely transport and park machinery ...

Operator - 1st Shift

Darlington, WI

$17 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SUMMARY Responsible for manually operating safety door on molding machine to extract molded parts ... Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times

Operator - 1st Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SUMMARY Responsible for manually operating safety door on molding machine to extract molded parts ... Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times

Operator - 1st Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SUMMARY Responsible for manually operating safety door on molding machine to extract molded parts ... Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times

Operator - 1st Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SUMMARY Responsible for manually operating safety door on molding machine to extract molded parts ... Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times

Operator - 1st Shift

Cuba City, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times * Required to perform secondary operations on molded parts to include trimming with knives and/or clippers ...

Operator - 1st Shift

Cuba City, WI

$17 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times * Required to perform secondary operations on molded parts to include trimming with knives and/or clippers ...

Operator - 1st Shift

Cuba City, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times * Required to perform secondary operations on molded parts to include trimming with knives and/or clippers ...

Operator - 1st Shift

Cuba City, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times * Required to perform secondary operations on molded parts to include trimming with knives and/or clippers ...

Intake Operator

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$22/hr

... CNC Machine Operator Express Employment Professionals CNC Machine Operator DIRECT HIRE Express Employment Professionals Production Operator - Day & Night Shift Sedona Staffing Services Forklift ...

Operator - 2nd Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SUMMARY Responsible for manually operating safety door on molding machine to extract molded parts ... Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times

Operator - 3rd Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SUMMARY Responsible for manually operating safety door on molding machine to extract molded parts ... Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times

Operator - 2nd Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SUMMARY Responsible for manually operating safety door on molding machine to extract molded parts ... Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times

Operator - 2nd Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SUMMARY Responsible for manually operating safety door on molding machine to extract molded parts ... Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times

Operator - 3rd Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SUMMARY Responsible for manually operating safety door on molding machine to extract molded parts ... Must remain at machine for duration of shift as required except for scheduled break times

Showing results 21-40

Machine Operator information

See Dubuque, IA salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Dubuque, IA is $17.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.37 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 job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Dubuque, IA look for?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Dubuque, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,670 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Summary:

A person in the position usually reports to an area supervisor, who reports to the Manufacturing ClearSpan Manager or Weld Manager. A Machine Operator 2 is responsible for planning and producing a variety of machines parts or components and the operations of those machines with minimal supervision to meet ship dates. This person will pick programs on the machines to produce simple parts meeting print specification.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Set up tools, appliances, machines, tube benders, band saws, drill presses, jigs, fixtures, press brake, robots, sheers needed to assembly or fabricate the product.
  • Operate any of several types of automated and semi-automated machines that are used to produce parts and components.
  • Select the right program on numerical control machines, press brake, robots or other machinery to produce parts and components according to drawing or blueprint specifications.
  • Change fixtures out as necessary on the machines.
  • Read and understand blueprints and other shop specifications/drawings.
  • Load and unload material and set up machines for standard and for special production runs.
  • Monitor machine performance and take preventative and corrective action as needed.
  • Perform standard general and specific maintenance on production machinery as indicated by protocol.
  • Accurately use micrometers, calipers, gauges and other measuring devices.
  • Understand and use basic shop math and general machine skills.
  • Verify settings by measuring positions and first article/sample pc.
  • Conduct in process inspection of machined parts.
  • Monitor feeds and speeds of machines during the machining process.
  • Promote ESAPCO and build a positive team environment with co-workers.
  • Mentor and help train new employees.
  • Clean and maintain area and floor space containing the machines.
  • Adhere to all safety and OSHA regulations.
  • Perform other tasks 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.

  • One year of machine operation preferred
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Knowledge of general N/C and other machine protocol and manufacturing methods
  • Knowledge of safety requirements and OSHA regulations
  • Knowledge of corporate production methods and safety procedures
  • Ability to read blueprints, work instructions, schematics and read a tape measure
  • Ability to select programs on N/C machines
  • Ability to produce parts and components from drawing and other specifications
  • Ability to use tools safely and effectively
  • Ability to handle production raw materials
  • Skilled in using tools and equipment
  • Skilled in following directions
  • Skilled in problem solving
  • Must have communication skills appropriate for the job
  • Ability to read, following written and verbal instructions
  • Must be able to work with minimal supervision

Education and/or Experience:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred
  • One year of machine operation experience preferred
  • Forklift Certification a plus

Language Skills

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Must be able to read and follow blueprints, interpret drawings and read a tape measure.

Mathematical Skills

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.

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 continuously stand, walk, talk, hear, use hand and fingers, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. In addition to the lifting the job requires various carrying, pushing/pulling, kneeling, crawling and squatting.

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 exposed to fluctuating temperatures indoors from cooler to warmer temps. The environment can be dry, dusty, humid, cold or hot indoors and outdoors.