1

Plate Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Plate Operator / Production Support Tipton Structural Fabrication | Cedar Rapids, IA More Than a Machine Operator We're looking for a detail-oriented Plate Operator to support both our fabrication ...

Plate maker

Irving, TX · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

... Operating Procedures when using digital, liquid or sheet plate equipment to produce finished plates in accordance with order and customer specifications • Remove, recover, clean, and trim finished ...

Plate Roll Operator

Hanover, PA · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Plate Roll Operator sets up and operates a 3-roll hydraulic plate roll to form steel plate into cylinders, cones, shells, curved segments, and related fabricated components in ...

POSITION SUMMARY The Plate Roll Operator sets up and operates a 3-roll hydraulic plate roll to form steel plate into cylinders, cones, shells, curved segments, and related fabricated components in ...

Plate Section Roll Operator - 1st Shift Location : Ooltewah, TN Shift : 1st Shift Pay : $20.00 production based About the Role We are seeking an experienced Plate Section Roll Operator to join our ...

Plate Roll Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

We're looking for a Plate Roll Operator who takes pride in precision and knows how to work steel the right way. If you have experience in heavy fabrication, can read prints, and understand how to ...

Plate Room Operator

Taunton, MA · On-site

$33.57/hr

This position is responsible for operating computer-to-plate (CTP) systems, Attiro CleanOut Units/Processors, and Nela Bending equipment in support of daily print production of The Boston Globe. The ...

As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem ... The Plate Gasketer will be responsible for assembling plates and gaskets in our Plate Product Line ...

We are currently seeking an experienced Saw Operator (bar/plate) at our Limerick, PA facility. We offer training, competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package. If you have the necessary ...

The Plate Roll Operator will shape, reduce the cross-sectional area, and elongate metal pieces by passing them between smooth-surfaced or rotating rollers which exert a continuous compressive force.

Plate Saw Operator

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Title Plate Saw Operator 2nd Shift Classification Non-Exempt (overtime eligible) Reports to Shift Supervisor Position Type and Expected Work Hours Full-time 2nd shift: Monday - Friday 2pm - 10:30pm ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Plate Operator information

See salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do plate operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for plate operator in the United States is $19.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Plate Operators face in maintaining equipment efficiency, and how are they typically addressed?

Plate Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment jams, plate misalignments, or wear and tear that can disrupt production schedules. Addressing these issues requires regular equipment inspections, prompt troubleshooting, and close collaboration with maintenance teams. Many workplaces provide ongoing training to help operators quickly identify and resolve common problems, ensuring minimal downtime and consistent product quality. Communication with supervisors and other operators is also crucial for sharing best practices and maintaining a safe, efficient work environment.

Which operator job pays the most?

Among operator roles, crane operators and heavy equipment operators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $60,000 annually due to the specialized skills and certifications required. These positions typically involve working in construction, manufacturing, or shipping environments and may require OSHA training and licensing. Salary can vary based on experience, location, and industry demand.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plate Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plate Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial machinery, basic mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or OSHA compliance are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient production, minimize downtime, and maintain workplace safety in a manufacturing environment.

What jobs are off limits to felons?

Felons may face restrictions in certain jobs that require security clearances, involve working with children or vulnerable populations, or require specific professional licenses. However, many roles, including those in manufacturing, construction, and general labor such as a plate operator, are often accessible to individuals with felony convictions, depending on the nature of the offense and state laws. Employers may also consider factors like rehabilitation and time since conviction when hiring felons for various positions.

What is a plating operator job description?

A plating operator is responsible for operating and maintaining equipment used in electroplating or metal finishing processes. They prepare solutions, monitor process parameters, inspect finished products for quality, and ensure safety protocols are followed. This role often requires attention to detail, technical skills, and knowledge of chemical handling and safety standards.

What are Plate Operators?

Plate Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating machinery that handles metal plates or sheets in industrial settings, such as manufacturing or printing. Their duties often include setting up, adjusting, and maintaining plate-handling equipment, ensuring the correct alignment and feed of materials, and monitoring production for quality. Plate Operators must follow safety protocols and may also perform basic troubleshooting and maintenance tasks. This role requires attention to detail, technical aptitude, and adherence to safety standards.

Why were 92,000 jobs lost?

The loss of 92,000 jobs can be attributed to economic downturns, industry declines, or automation reducing the need for manual labor, including roles like plate operators. Such job reductions often result from technological advancements, shifts in demand, or company restructuring, impacting employment levels across manufacturing and industrial sectors.
More about Plate Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Plate Operator jobs? Cities with the most Plate Operator job openings:
What states have the most Plate Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Plate Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Plate Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,702 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Aerotek

Cedar Rapids, IA

$21.40 - $24.70/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Plate Operator / Production Support

Tipton Structural Fabrication | Cedar Rapids, IA

More Than a Machine Operator

We're looking for a detail-oriented Plate Operator to support both our fabrication shop and custom manufacturing operations. In this role, you'll operate a laser table that produces precision parts for internal weld shop projects as well as external customers, making a direct impact on production efficiency and company revenue.

What You'll Do
  • Operate and monitor laser table equipment to cut and process steel components
  • Enter part numbers, job details, and production information into the computer system
  • Review work orders and drawings to ensure accurate production
  • Perform quality checks and verify finished parts meet specifications
  • Organize and stage materials for welding and fabrication teams
  • Support on-time delivery of parts for internal and customer projects
When the Laser Is Running...

We value productivity and cross-training. During longer production runs, you'll assist with:

  • Weld shop support
  • Warehouse operations
  • Material handling and general labor duties
  • Loading and unloading materials
  • Learning to operate additional equipment, including an end loader
  • Supporting overall shop efficiency wherever needed
Qualifications
  • Manufacturing, fabrication, machine operation, or warehouse experience preferred
  • Comfortable using computers for data entry, job tracking, and production records
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to read measurements and follow work instructions
  • Mechanically inclined with a willingness to learn new equipment
  • Team-first attitude and strong work ethic
  • Ability to work safely in a fabrication environment around steel and heavy equipment
Ideal CandidateThis role is perfect for someone who enjoys variety in their day, likes staying busy, and wants to learn multiple aspects of a fabrication operation. Success in this position comes from being dependable, detail-oriented, adaptable, and willing to jump in wherever the team needs support.Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cedar Rapids, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $21.40 - $24.70/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Cedar Rapids,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 23, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.