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Operator Internship Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

MSI Mold Builders

Design Internship

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

The intern will be assigned tasks that are not directly related to operating machinery but will be ... College interns * First year students will begin training in the components and manual machining ...

MSI Mold Builders

Design Internship

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

The intern will be assigned tasks that are not directly related to operating machinery but will be ... College interns * First year students will begin training in the components and manual machining ...

MSI Mold Builders

Design Internship

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

The intern will be assigned tasks that are not directly related to operating machinery but will be ... College interns First year students will begin training in the components and manual machining ...

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Operator Internship information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operator intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operator Intern, you generally need a foundational understanding of mechanical or industrial processes, basic technical aptitude, and enrollment in a relevant degree or training program. Familiarity with industry-specific equipment, safety protocols, and common software systems like SCADA or data entry platforms is often required. Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities are important to ensure safe, efficient operations and to build the practical experience necessary for a successful career in operations.

What is an operator internship?

Operator internships are structured, short-term work experiences where students or recent graduates assist in operating machinery, equipment, or industrial processes under supervision. These internships are designed to provide hands-on training in areas such as manufacturing, utilities, or plant operations. Participants learn about safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and daily operational procedures. The goal is to help interns develop skills and knowledge needed for entry-level operator roles while gaining valuable workplace experience.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities during an operator internship?

During an Operator Internship, you can expect to assist with the setup, operation, and maintenance of machinery or equipment under supervision. Interns often learn to monitor production lines, troubleshoot minor issues, and follow safety procedures closely. You’ll collaborate with experienced operators and engineers, gaining hands-on experience and a clear understanding of manufacturing processes. This role provides an excellent foundation for understanding plant operations and can lead to more advanced positions in manufacturing or operations management.

What is the difference between Operator Internship vs Machine Operator?

AspectOperator InternshipMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, supervised, learning-focusedFull-time, hands-on in manufacturing or industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs in manufacturing, energy, or industrial sectorsManufacturing plants, factories, industrial facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Operator Internship and a Machine Operator is that an internship is a training position designed for learning and gaining experience, often with supervision, while a Machine Operator is a full-time role responsible for operating machinery independently. Internships serve as a stepping stone into the industry, whereas Machine Operators are experienced workers performing essential operational tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Iowa are:

Operator Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Internship job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Internship, 50% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Design Internship

MSI Mold Builders

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Other

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Discover how an internship with MSI could challenge you to explore new possibilities.
Company Overview:
Since 1971, industries around the world have turned to MSI to design and build molds of exceptional accuracy and durability. Our dedication to the highest quality mold design and building standards is part of our mission to lead the industry in the design and production of value added plastic molds.
Our customers rely on us to design and build various types of steel and aluminum molds for injection, structural foam, rim, blow, gas assist and structural web processes. We also design and build aluminum injection molds for limited production runs.
Today MSI serves customers in the computer, business machine, medical diagnostics, material handling, sporting goods, lawn and garden, appliance, consumer electronics, heavy equipment and transportation industries.
Student Qualifications
  • High School: Students entering their senior year in high school and older are eligible to apply for an internship. Interns under age 18 must have a parent co-sign the internship agreement.
  • College: Students accepted into an approved Advanced Manufacturing related program

Program Overview
MSI believes that one of the strongest components to our future success lies in the development of new talent. The goal of our internship program is to provide students with an opportunity to explore careers in the field of Advanced Manufacturing; and, to help them determine their interest and capabilities in the various careers in this field. The internship will provide hands-on learning experiences for students at the company facilities as well as help them develop interpersonal and technical skill sets that are necessary to be successful in today's workforce.
Internships are paid and the hours are flexible based on school work load and extra- curricular school programs. Participation in MSI's internship program does not guarantee regular employment will be offered at the completion of the internship. An internship can be terminated at any time, for example, if an intern does not show advancement in skills, demonstrates poor interpersonal skills, has poor attendance and/or punctuality, or if business conditions change.,.
  • High School interns
    • Exposed to all areas of MSI's production and engineering areas. The intern will be assigned tasks that are not directly related to operating machinery but will be of value to the organization. Examples may include electrode mounting, helping with set ups, maintenance work, print scanning, etc.
    • The goal of this first year is to evaluate the intern's work ethic and basic abilities as they relate to the skills needed in Advanced Manufacturing.
  • College interns
  • First year students will begin training in the components and manual machining areas, such as lathes and mills. Duties may also include saw cutting, benching, and maintenance work. Engineering students will begin color coding wire frame models, gain exposure to the manufacturing process and machining.
  • Second year students will have the opportunity to begin training on 2D machines. Detailing work will be added to the duties of engineering students. It will also be critical at this level for the intern to develop an understanding of mold making and the manufacturing process that MSI follows.
  • The goal of this year is to expand the intern's knowledge of Advanced Manufacturing opportunities, the mold making industry, and develop their base machine operator skills.

The level of tasks that are initially assigned to an intern will be based on schooling and background. Further advancement to more difficult tasks will be based on growth of skill set and the attitude that is demonstrated. MSI places equal importance on technical abilities and attitude. A positive "can do" attitude, punctuality, ability to stay on task, ability to communicate effectively and a willingness to learn and ask questions are critical attributes of a successful employee.
Accountability
Intern:
  1. Adhere to company work hours, policies, procedures and safety rules.
  2. Adhere to company policies governing confidentiality.
  3. Assume personal responsibility for his/her actions and activities.
  4. Maintain professional relationships with company employees, customers, etc.
  5. Utilize a courteous, enthusiastic, open-minded approach to the policies, procedures and work.
  6. Develop a self-awareness in regard to attitudes, values, behaviors, etc. that influence your work and relationships.
  7. Demonstrate a team player attitude and a willingness to assist with all tasks assigned.

Employer:
  1. Orient the student intern to the company's operations.
  2. Orient the student to the company's work and safety policies and procedures.
  3. Assign and supervise the completion of tasks.
  4. Provide regular feedback. During the 1st year, an intern will receive monthly reviews to inform them of their progression and any gaps that may exist. In subsequent years, the reviews will occur every 90 days.
  5. Provide exposure and opportunity for learning in various departments and positions in the organization.

Educational Assistance
MSI believes that a formal education is important to a successful career in Advanced Manufacturing. To reinforce this belief, interns have the opportunity to receive assistance for their college education.
Students who are accepted into an MSI approved Advanced Manufacturing related program may be eligible for:
  1. Educational benefits including payments for tuition, fees and books. Students should obtain eligibility verification before enrolling in any classes for which they will seek reimbursement.
  2. Reimbursement will be issued at the completion of a class for which eligibility was verified IF the student achieved a grade of a "B" or above and attended at least 90% of classroom instruction.
  3. Valid receipts and transcripts will be required for reimbursement. A student will be eligible for reimbursement of expenses actually incurred any grants , scholarships or other financial assistance will be deducted prior to calculation of the reimbursement amount.
  4. The annual reimbursement is limited to $5,250 for undergraduate degrees. Any reimbursement above this must be classified as wages. This is subject to change in accordance with IRS guidelines.

Such responsibilities will be assigned only to interns who are age 18 and over.

Apply