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Machine Operator Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Fairview AG

Be Seen First

Agricultural Specialist

Jesup, IA · On-site

$18 - $45/hr

Proven experience "turning wrenches" and troubleshooting diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, or agricultural machinery. * Operator Experience: Practical, hands-on experience operating ...

Fairview AG

Agricultural Specialist

Waverly, IA · On-site

$18 - $45/hr

Proven experience "turning wrenches" and troubleshooting diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, or agricultural machinery. * Operator Experience: Practical, hands-on experience operating ...

Fairview AG

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Agricultural Specialist

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$18 - $45/hr

Proven experience "turning wrenches" and troubleshooting diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, or agricultural machinery. * Operator Experience: Practical, hands-on experience operating ...

Fairview AG

Agricultural Specialist

Waverly, IA · On-site

$18 - $45/hr

Proven experience "turning wrenches" and troubleshooting diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, or agricultural machinery. * Operator Experience: Practical, hands-on experience operating ...

Fairview AG

Be Seen First

Agricultural Specialist

Jesup, IA · On-site

$18 - $45/hr

Proven experience "turning wrenches" and troubleshooting diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, or agricultural machinery. * Operator Experience: Practical, hands-on experience operating ...

Fairview AG

Be Seen First

Agricultural Specialist

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$18 - $45/hr

Proven experience "turning wrenches" and troubleshooting diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, or agricultural machinery. * Operator Experience: Practical, hands-on experience operating ...

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

$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 ...

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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 Jul 24, 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,299 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Drill Press /Utility-2ndend

Drill Press /Utility-2ndend

Geater Machining & Manufacturing, Co.

Independence, IA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Drill Press/ Utility Operator

Exciting news for all those CNC Machinists out there! Geater Machining & Manufacturing, located in Independence, IA, is looking for a talented individual to join our team. As a full-time Drill Press/ Utility Operator at GMM, you have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge equipment in a high-performance culture. If you're looking for a new challenge, a change of pace, or an opportunity to think outside the box, this could be the job for you!

This position is perfect for someone who wants to grow in their career and be part of a supportive culture. In addition to competitive pay, we provide the following amazing benefits:

  • $3 alternative shift premium or $5 weekend premium
  • Bonus opportunities
  • Weekend shift - 36-hour work week
  • Growth opportunities
  • Paid time off (PTO) starting at a rate of 2 weeks per year!
  • 401(k) with company Match
  • Profit sharing
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • 24/7 Fitness Center

Don't miss out on the opportunity to join an industry leader in aerospace manufacturing and machining. Apply today!

GMM: WHO WE ARE

We have been servicing the aerospace, electronics, and high-tech industries since 1962. As a customer-focused machining and sheet metal manufacturer, we dedicate ourselves to providing the highest quality and delivery available in the industry through continuous improvement. In order to best serve our customers, we have expanded our offerings to provide a variety of secondary value-added manufacturing processes, becoming a true one-stop shop to save our customers valuable time and money.

We continue to invest in our progressive team of problem-solving, innovative thought-leaders by offering quality training and coaching as well as funding continuing education, empowering our team to grow their careers. We are a family-oriented company where everyone is willing to lend a helping hand. Get ready to work with a team of great people who are proud of what they do... protect the lives of those who protect us.

YOUR DAY AS A DRILL PRESS/ UTILITY OPERATOR

We are searching for a Drill Press/ Utility Operator who will be able to set up and operate machines such as; drill press, hand punch, rollers, punch press, timesaver, fladder, floppy wheel, shear and other special purpose machines to fabricate or deburr metallic and non-metallic parts. Fabricate and/or modify parts to meet customer requirements. Study blueprints, supplemental drawings, specifications, or in some cases, a sample part, to determine dimensions and tolerances of finished work piece, sequence of operations, and setup requirements. Select, align, and secure holding fixtures, cutting or punching tools, attachments, and accessories needed to perform required functions on machines. Calculate and set controls to regulate repeatability of processes. Observe machine operation to detect malfunctions and adjust machine controls as required. Verify conformance of finished work pieces to specifications and blue prints by use of appropriate measuring devices. Accurately fill out work order routers with correct quantity of good parts and scrap parts. Communicate and confer with engineers, production personnel, programmers, or others to resolve any problems that may arise. Create the best product possible with no defects to help maintain a high standard of quality. As a Drill Press/ Utility Operator you play an important role in the manufacturing process by utilizing your skills to produce high-quality aerospace and electronic products that meet and exceed customer expectations. You have to be efficient in using various tools and making adjustments on the fly. If you are passionate about precision manufacturing and want to advance your career in the aerospace industry, then apply today for this exciting Drill Press/ Utility Operator position!

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR IN A DRILL PRESS/ UTILITY OPERATOR

Record of High School Diploma, GED or equivalent work experience. Additionally, individuals must be self-motivated and willing to learn and grow.

JOIN US!

If you think this job aligns with your requirements, then submitting an application is simple. In fact, you can complete the entire application process in about three minutes. Good luck!


Job Posted by ApplicantPro