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Machine Operator Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Zinpro

2nd Shift Plant Operator

Shell Rock, IA · On-site

$23 - $34/hr

Shift: 2nd Shift Plant Operator. 2:00pm - 10:30pm - Sunday - Thursday. The plant operator is ... Controls, operates, and maintains the automated production machinery that blends, mixes, processes ...

Zinpro

3rd Shift Plant Operator

Shell Rock, IA · On-site

$23 - $34/hr

The plant operator is expected to work a 40-hour work week and occasional overtime. Compensation ... Controls, operates, and maintains the automated production machinery that blends, mixes, processes ...

Rada Cutlery

Toolroom Machinist

Waverly, IA · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

... CNC machine when needed, using existing programs (heavy programming or software modeling is not a ... You have proven, hands-on experience safely setting up and operating manual lathes, mills, and ...

Rada Cutlery

Toolroom Machinist

Waverly, IA · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

... CNC machine when needed, using existing programs (heavy programming or software modeling is not a ... You have proven, hands-on experience safely setting up and operating manual lathes, mills, and ...

Rada Cutlery

Toolroom Machinist

Waverly, IA

$28 - $40/hr

... CNC machine when needed, using existing programs (heavy programming or software modeling is not a ... You have proven, hands-on experience safely setting up and operating manual lathes, mills, and ...

Hodge

Forklift Operator- 2nd Shift

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

As the Forklift Operator , you are essential to the safety, quality, and productivity of the ... For jobs requiring heavy machinery: Employees must be at least 18 years old to operate heavy ...

New

Hodge

Forklift Operator- 2nd Shift

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

As the Forklift Operator , you are essential to the safety, quality, and productivity of the ... For jobs requiring heavy machinery: Employees must be at least 18 years old to operate heavy ...

Stouffers

Lift Truck Operator

Waverly, IA · On-site

$29.61/hr

Lift Truck Operator Foods you love. Brands you trust. And a career that empowers you to grow. At ... Supply machine centers with packaging and raw materials. Inspect the materials before using verify ...

New

Nestle

Canister Line Operator

Waverly, IA

$29.61/hr

Supply machine centers with packaging and raw materials. Inspect the materials before using verify ... Communicate with operators, mechanics, and management. Equipment: Operate and adjust packaging ...

Ranews Companies

Forklift Operator

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Now Hiring - Forklift Operator Ranew's Companies is seeking a Forklift Operator to join our team in Waterloo, IA. A Forklift Operator maintains production and distribution of product by pulling ...

QPS

Forklift Operator

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$16/hr

Forklift Operator QPS Employment Group is hiring a Forklift Operator for a company in Cedar Falls, IA. This is a potential to hire opportunity on 1st shift. Wage: $16.00/hour Shift: 1st Hours: 6:00am ...

Aerotek

Forklift Operator

Cedar Falls, IA

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Forklift Operator This role involves operating a sit-down forklift in a large, fast-paced warehouse to pick, move, and load oversized products using an RF scan gun and labeling system. You will start ...

Nestle

Lift Truck Operator

Waverly, IA

$29.61/hr

Supply machine centers with packaging and raw materials. Inspect the materials before using verify ... Communicate with operators, mechanics, and management. Equipment: Operate and adjust packaging ...

Nestle

Lift Truck Operator

Waverly, IA · On-site

$29.61/hr

Supply machine centers with packaging and raw materials. Inspect the materials before using verify ... Communicate with operators, mechanics, and management. Equipment: Operate and adjust packaging ...

New

Nestle

Line 20 Packaging Operator

Waverly, IA

$29.61/hr

Supply machine centers with packaging and raw materials. Inspect the materials before using verify ... Communicate with operators, mechanics, and management. Equipment: Operate and adjust packaging ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Waterloo, IA

Machine Operator information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Waterloo, IA is $17.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.18 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.

More about Machine Operator jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,299 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Forklift Operator - 1st Shift

Buckeye Corrugated, Inc.

Cedar Falls, IA • On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Work Schedule:
  • 1st Shift: 6:00am - 2:30pm Monday-Friday

Position Purpose:
Forklift Operators are an essential part of BCI's on time customer delivery guarantee. Forklift Drivers are responsible for loading, unloading, stacking and staging corrugated products and materials in a safe and timely fashion.
Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Follow established safety rules, policies and procedures at all times
  • Efficiently move product including:
    • Unloading inbound dry van trailers
    • Ensuring the accuracy of received product to bill of lading
    • Staging product on production line
    • Moving completed product into storage/warehouse area
    • Loading outbound dry van trailers
    • Pulling and preparing orders for shipment, ensuring accuracy of number and type of product being loaded and shipped
  • Operating forklift in a safe and efficient manner
  • Other tasks as assigned by supervisor
  • Full-time role in a manufacturing plant/warehouse setting

Desired Qualifications and Experience:
  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Basic computer skills required
  • Experience with electronic shipping computer systems a plus
  • Previous PIT experience and/or certifications required
  • Must have ability to learn and understand machine line up

Physical Demands
  • The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met in order to successfully perform the essential functions of this position:
    • Stand, walk and communicate with others (both speaking and listening) - regularly
    • Use hands to adjust, manipulate and feel product - frequently
    • Reach with hands and arms - frequently
    • Stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl - frequently
    • Sit - occasionally
    • Lift and/or move up to 50 pounds - regularly
    • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus

About BCI:
Buckeye Corrugated, Inc. (BCI) is a privately held, employee-owned company with twelve (12) corrugated manufacturing facilities, providing an extensive range of corrugated packaging products. Located in ten Southern and Midwestern states, our services and capabilities include custom-designed corrugated packaging, point-of-purchase displays, point-of-sale packaging along with fulfillment and logistics. Simply stated, we do not just make boxes. We build the means to shape impressions and influence perceptions.
BCI provides competitive pay and a robust benefits package including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision and life insurance, disability benefits, 401(k), paid time off and holidays, as well as a bonus plan and opportunity for employee stock ownership.

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