Machine Operator

Job Description

Job Title: Machine Operator

Job Description

We are seeking a skilled Machine Operator to perform production and recycling tasks in a warehouse manufacturing environment. Experience in manufacturing and machine operation is highly valued. Candidates with at least 6 months of manufacturing experience are preferred, though a consistent work history of 3 years or more is ideal.

Responsibilities

Perform machine setups at the start of each shift, including loading materials and making basic adjustments.

Install and monitor equipment to ensure machines run smoothly and safely.

Carry out basic troubleshooting to identify and resolve minor mechanical or operational problems.

Utilize material handling techniques to move products and totes throughout the production area.

Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet daily production goals and respond to changing order volumes.

Essential Skills

Previous experience in machine operation within a manufacturing or warehouse setting.

Proficiency in identifying and addressing simple mechanical issues on production equipment.

Experience with production processes and a track record of strong job tenure.

Knowledgeable in safety procedures and committed to wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Additional Skills & Qualifications

Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs regularly throughout the shift.

Capability to work in a warehouse environment that can be dusty due to the use of colorant powders.

Possession of strong reliability and punctuality, with the flexibility to work overtime and early start times during peak seasons.

Why Work Here?

This organization offers a small-company culture focused on long-term careers and internal growth. Employees benefit from flexible start times, annual production-based bonuses, and significant pay increases as they move into new roles. Additionally, all staff receive an extra hourly pay increase during the busy season to reward performance during peak production.

Work Environment

The role is based in an industrial warehouse setting where work is hands-on and physically active around running machinery. Because the production process involves colorant powders, the environment is considered "dirty" or dusty, though the powders are non-toxic and do not stain. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 5:00 AM to 1:30 PM, with extended hours of 10–12 hours per day required during the busy season from March to June. Required PPE like hard hats and safety goggles are provided, but employees must provide their own steel-toe boots.Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Ames, IA.Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $19.00/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 Ames,IA.Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 17, 2026.

About Aerotek:

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 meets 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 solving for 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.

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.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.