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Packaging Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Employbridge

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Packaging Machine Operator

Urbana, IA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Packaging Machine Operators in Urbana Shift: 7am - 3:30pm | Mon-Fri Limited OT, Rare weekends Pay: $18.00- $20.00 / hour This is a hands-on role requiring a strong understanding of machinery and ...

Just Staffing

Machine Operator

Mitchellville, IA · On-site

$19/hr

Machine Operator Worksite: Mitchellville, Iowa Company Overview: Our client is a leading food ... and packaging machines, to ensure proper functioning and product quality - Perform routine ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing various tasks associated with the packaging of liquid products and operating various packaging machines on ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control automated liquid bottle filling machinery and feed components onto assembly conveyors and other equipment.

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$21.20/hr

Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control automated liquid bottle filling machinery and feed components onto assembly conveyors and other equipment.

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing various tasks associated with the packaging of liquid products and operating various packaging machines on ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing various tasks associated with the packaging of liquid products and operating various packaging machines on ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control automated liquid bottle filling machinery and feed components onto assembly conveyors and other equipment.

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Machine Operator

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

What You'll Do Machine Operators will work with meat cutting/packaging machines and other equipment to process meat products for the consumer. These positions require technical knowledge of ...

Ascend Staffing

Machine Operator

Laurens, IA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Weekly Pay Machine Operator Tasks & Duties * Machines, welds, assembles, washes and/or paints ... Carry out production, inspection, packaging and machine operation duties * Read, analyze, and ...

Centro, Inc

Machine Operator

Davenport, IA · On-site

$22.20/hr

What You'll Do as a Machine Operator * Operate rotational molding machines and related ... Comprehensive benefits package including: * Health, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) with ...

Centro, Inc

Machine Operator

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$24.70/hr

What You'll Do as a Machine Operator * Operate rotational molding machines and related ... Comprehensive benefits package including: * Health, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) with ...

Centro, Inc

Machine Operator

Davenport, IA · On-site

$22.20/hr

Sunday-Thursday 11:00 PM-7:00 AM Are you an experienced Machine Operator looking for stability ... Comprehensive benefits package including: * Health, dental, and vision insurance * 401(k) with ...

Michael Foods Inc.

Machine Operator - First Shift

Norwalk, IA · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Responsibilities The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and troubleshooting food production and packaging equipment to support efficient manufacturing operations. Ensures ...

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All JobsPackaging Machine Operator JobsPackaging Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa

Packaging Machine Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do packaging machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging machine operator in Iowa is $18.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $20.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a packaging machine operator?

Packaging Machine Operators are skilled workers responsible for running, monitoring, and maintaining machinery that packages products in factories or warehouses. They set up the equipment, ensure it runs efficiently, load materials, and inspect finished packages for quality. Their role also includes troubleshooting minor issues, performing regular maintenance, and following safety standards to prevent accidents. Packaging Machine Operators are essential for ensuring that goods are properly packed and ready for shipment or sale.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a packaging machine operator?

To thrive as a Packaging Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with automated packaging machinery, basic computer systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators adapt to production changes and prevent downtime. These skills are crucial for maintaining product quality, operational efficiency, and workplace safety.

What are the most common challenges packaging machine operators face during a typical shift?

Packaging Machine Operators frequently encounter challenges such as troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and meeting production deadlines. Operators must stay alert to quickly identify and resolve minor mechanical issues, ensuring minimal downtime. Additionally, they need to follow strict safety and hygiene protocols, often while working in fast-paced environments with repetitive tasks. Strong attention to detail and good communication skills are essential for collaborating with maintenance teams and supervisors when more complex problems arise.

What is the difference between Packaging Machine Operator vs Material Handler?

AspectPackaging Machine OperatorMaterial Handler
Primary RoleOperates packaging machinery to package products efficientlyMoves, loads, and unloads materials and products within a facility
Skills & CertificationsMechanical skills, attention to detail, safety trainingForklift certification, physical stamina, safety awareness
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or production linesWarehouses, distribution centers
Industry UsageFood, pharmaceuticals, consumer goodsLogistics, manufacturing, distribution

While both roles are essential in manufacturing and logistics, Packaging Machine Operators focus on operating and maintaining packaging equipment, ensuring products are properly sealed and labeled. Material Handlers primarily manage the movement and storage of materials within facilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on skills and interests.

What are popular job titles related to Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Packaging Machine Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Packaging Machine Operator jobs in IA?

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

Packaging Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Packaging Machine Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,040 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Packaging Machine Operator

Urbana, IA • On-site

Employbridge
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Employbridgeexternal

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

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Job description

Now Hiring: Packaging Machine Operators in Urbana

Shift: 7am - 3:30pm | Mon-Fri

Limited OT, Rare weekends

Pay: $18.00- $20.00 / hour

This is a hands-on role requiring a strong understanding of machinery and equipment maintenance.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating, setting up, and maintaining machinery to ensure efficient and safe production.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

  • Operating and setting up manufacturing equipment to start and run production cycles.
  • Controlling and adjusting machine settings to meet quality specifications.
  • Feeding raw materials or parts into machinery.
  • Inspecting finished product to ensure they meet quality standards.
  • Testing machines periodically to identify and resolve issues.
  • Troubleshooting machine malfunctions and reporting them to maintenance.
  • Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs to keep equipment running smoothly.
  • Maintain cleanliness of machines and work areas.
  • Follow safely protocols and adhering to all workplace regulations.
  • Keeping activity and production logs.

Qualifications:

  • Proven experience as a Machine Operator, ideally in a similar manufacturing environment.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Safety-conscious mindset
  • Basic computer literacy.
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About employbridge

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The EmployBridge Story EmployBridge is the largest light industrial staffing supplier in the United States and a preeminent resource for professional staffing. We offer local expertise and service through our 400+ branches. EmployBridge offers a competitive benefits package which includes Medical/Dental/Vision, prescription drug benefits, 401(k), paid time off and holidays, a wellness program, and more. We also offer a variety of career paths and encourage promotion from within. At EmployBridge, we operate an entire family of specialty staffing companies that include: Decca, Hire Dynamics, ResourceMFG, Select Staffing, ProLogistix, ProDrivers, RemX Specialty Staffing, Westaff, and Remedy Intelligent Staffing. To find out more, visit us at www.employbridge.com.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Duluth, GA, US

Year founded

1985

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