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Machine Operator Jobs in Ottumwa, IA (NOW HIRING)

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Machine Operator information

See Ottumwa, IA salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Ottumwa, IA is $17.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.32 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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

While most machine operator roles do not reach $500,000 annually, high-level positions in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or executive management can exceed this income level. Achieving such earnings typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, certifications, and often leadership responsibilities or ownership stakes.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $3,000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, high-level consultants, and skilled trades like offshore drilling or certain construction projects. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, certifications, or working in high-demand industries with long hours or high risk.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

The average salary for a machine operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled operators with certifications or experience working with specialized machinery may earn higher wages, and some positions offer shift differentials or overtime pay.

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 the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator roles are often found in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where advanced skills and certifications are required. These positions may offer higher salaries due to the technical expertise, safety requirements, and experience needed, with some earning over $70,000 annually depending on location and industry.

What are machine operators?

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 is the work of 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 troubleshoot issues as needed, often following safety protocols and using tools like control panels or gauges.
More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Ottumwa, IA? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Ottumwa, IA are:
What cities near Ottumwa, IA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Ottumwa, IA with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Ottumwa, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,601 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Clow Valve - Machine Operator Specialist Utility

Clow Valve - Machine Operator Specialist Utility

McWane, Inc.

Oskaloosa, IA • On-site

$500/day

Full-time

Medical

Posted 15 hours ago

Job description

Company Description

We are a leading manufacturer of water valves and fire hydrants. We are a division of McWane Corportation with sister companies in the US and Canada.The Iowa Valve Company was established in Oskaloosa in 1909 by W W Corey and Herman W Read to build hydrants and valves. The original location of "THE VALVE" is the current Machine Shop location on South Second St. the original buildings are still part of that facility. The Eddy Valve Company was founded in 1849 by George Eddy in Waterford New York. In 1878 Clow was formed in Chicago as a jobber of wrought iron pipe and other foundry products. The company was then known as James B Clow and Sons. Clow acquired Eddy Valve in 1945 and Iowa Valve in 1947. These were operated separately at their original locations until 1970 when they were merged in Oskaloosa under Clow Corporation, Valve Division.  
The original South Second street facility housed all the operations of "THE VALVE". This included a brass foundry, an iron foundry and the machine shop for machining and building of valves and hydrants. In 1967, demand had grown and the iron foundry was relocated and expanded to the southeast edge of Oskaloosa. When Eddy and Iowa were merged in Oskaloosa in 1970, the brass foundry was relocated to the iron foundry site on 17th Ave. East.
In June 1985, McWane Incorporated purchased all the stock of Clow and Clow became a wholly owned subsidiary of McWane. Clow Valve Company, including Oskaloosa and Corona, was formed and is how we are known today.
Today Clow Valve Company is a very well respected manufacturer of water works valves and fire hydrants. Clow manufactures 2" through 48" diameter Resilient Seated valves. Clow also manufactures dry and wet barrel fire hydrants. The Machine Shop and Metal Casting Facility utilize state of the art technology in both shops concerning safety, quality and production. The Clow Machine Shop has been ISO 9000 certified since 2002. The Foundry is recognized as a Voluntary Protection Program Merit Site as awarded by OSHA. Clow Valve is looking forward to operating in and benefiting Oskaloosa for the next 100 years.

Job Description

Clow Valve has an opening for a Machine Operator Specialist. Previous machining experience is needed. 

W/E Shift Position: Friday, Saturday, Sunday 5am-5pm

Starting Wage: $28.78

$500 Sign on bonus after 120 day probationary period completed

Health Insurance available after 60 days.

RESPONSIBILITIES INLCUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

  • Planning machines by studying work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, materials, specifications, and machining parameters.
  • Completes tooling setup for machine.
  • Complete any required fixture set-up.
  • Programs mills and lathes by entering instructions.
  • Load stock into machine (may require use of overhead lifting devices).
  • Verifies settings by measuring positions, first-run part, and sample work pieces; adhering to standards.
  • Maintains specifications by observing drilling, grooving, and cutting; taking measurements; detecting malfunctions; troubleshooting processes; adjusting and reprogramming controls; sharpening and replacing worn tools; adhering to quality assurance procedures and processes.
  • Maintains continuity among work shifts by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities, and continuing needs.
  • Documents actions by completing production and quality logs.
  • General cleanup of work area.
  • Maintains safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations.
Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

  • Lifting/carrying of less than 50 pounds.
  • Standing greater than 6 hours per day.
  • Ability to work in extreme temperature conditions.
  • Ability to work around machinery.
  • Ability to gauge and measure parts using mathematics.
  • Ability to use hand tools & do repetitive work.
  • Manufacturing Experience is preferred.
  • Ability to wear PPE including but not limited to earplugs, safety glasses, & metatarsal guarded boots.
  • Ability to understand and operate forklift in a safe manner
Additional Information

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

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
McWane is a Federal VEVRAA contractor, and an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices. McWane will not discriminate against any applicant for employment because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran or service member status, marital status, citizenship status (In IL - sex, including same sex, ancestry, order of protection status, physical or mental disability, military status, pregnancy, unfavorable discharge status, genetic information), (In IA - gender identity), (In CA- gender identity or expression, and genetic information) or any other category protected by federal, state or local law.

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