1

Machine Operator Jobs in Marshalltown, IA (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Press Operator

Newton, IA · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Press Operator - Temp-to-Hire Target Hire: Immediate Pay Rate: $15-17/hr (Day Shift = 15/hr, Night Shift = 17/hr) Eligibility: U.S. citizens or residents / EAD only Location: Newton, IA Schedule · 2 ...

Utility Operator

Sully, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Utility Operator should be able to quickly learn and switch between tasks, follow safety rules ... Monitor machines during operation and report any issues or malfunctions * Perform basic maintenance ...

Utility Operator

Sully, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Utility Operator should be able to quickly learn and switch between tasks, follow safety rules ... Monitor machines during operation and report any issues or malfunctions * Perform basic maintenance ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Operator information

See Marshalltown, IA salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Marshalltown, IA is $16.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.08 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Marshalltown, IA?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Marshalltown, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,075 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


American Packaging Corporation rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Description

At American Packaging Corporation (APC), you'll find the packaging career you've been looking for. With competitive salaries, excellent benefits, 401(k) plans and tuition reimbursement programs, we nurture our employees while advancing and promoting diversity and inclusion. As the leading flexible packaging converter in North America for over a century, APC's longstanding success is fueled from the inside out. We're constantly seeking to improve our internal operations and were named a "Best of the Best" in the Best workplaces in the America's awards for 12 years in a row. It's how and why we engage the best and brightest talent to continue propelling our shared success into the future.


LOCATION: Story City, IA


SHIFT: Days, 12 hr (Slitting)


SUMMARY: Assist in daily operations of the Finishing Department.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

  • Participates in training, embrace concepts of and actively practice the STOP Safety Program fundamentals to aid American Packaging Corporation's efforts to achieve a zero-accident rate.
  • Retrieves all necessary set up information/specifications/guidelines and follows instructions on the job jacket.
  • Safely, efficiently and effectively assists with the assigned production machinery equipment monitoring quality, production and waste adhering to all customer specifications.
  • Ensures immediate work area and work areas for which Machine Operator has responsibility are free of clutter and debris. Perform all cleaning/sanitation responsibilities, safely using all required cleaning solutions and protective equipment.
  • Monitors all quality requirements as outlined by company procedure and specification. Completes necessary sheets for quality checks.
  • Actively participates in safety programs and completes required safety observations. Understands and follows plant safety rules.
  • Attends and participates in all scheduled meetings (Continuous Quality Improvement, safety, special projects, departmental, etc.).
  • Able to work all scheduled shifts and required overtime hours.
  • Trains new employees as necessary.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: 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) required. Previous manufacturing experience preferred.


LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.


MATHEMATICAL 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 draw and interpret bar graphs.


REASONING ABILITY

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.


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 stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk and reach with hands and arms. This position may require manual lifting not to exceed 50 lbs - reference your department-specific JHA (job hazard analysis) for departmental lifting restrictions. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.


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 moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to airborne particles and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.


American Packaging Corporation is committed to equal opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. American Packaging Corporation will make reasonable accommodations for known physical or mental limitations of otherwise qualified employees and applicants with disabilities unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. EOE/AA Disability/Veteran.

If you are interested in applying for an employment opportunity and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact our Human Resources department at:

talentacquisition@americanpackaging.com.


What American Packaging Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom