Machine Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Machine Operator

Job Description

This role carries full line responsibility from production through packaging in a high-volume manufacturing environment. You will operate computer-controlled bottle production equipment, monitor quality and output, and ensure products are produced and packaged in the correct quantities and according to specifications. The position is physically active and requires regular standing, walking, reaching, and lifting while working 12-hour shifts.

Responsibilities

• Operate the computer system that controls bottle manufacturing machines and related production equipment.
• Oversee the entire line from production to packaging to ensure smooth, efficient, and continuous operation.
• Monitor production processes, including machine performance and product flow, and make adjustments as needed to maintain quality and output targets.
• Perform quality inspections on bottles and caps, pulling samples for the lab according to established procedures.
• Record production data, including quantities produced, downtime, and any issues or problems encountered during the shift.
• Ensure goods are produced and packaged in the correct quantity and in accordance with agreed specifications and standards.
• Stack and organize finished products safely and efficiently for further handling or shipment.
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines and all site procedures to maintain a clean, safe, and compliant work area.
• Use basic mechanical aptitude to identify minor equipment issues and assist in troubleshooting or adjustments when appropriate.
• Work safely and consistently while regularly standing, walking, reaching, and lifting 10 lbs routinely, 30 lbs frequently, and occasionally up to 50 lbs.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to support production goals and communicate any concerns or improvement ideas.
• Participate in training during the probationary period and follow all instructions to become fully proficient in operating the equipment and processes.

Essential Skills

• At least 1 year of machine operating experience in a production or manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand how machines and production lines operate.
• Ability to operate computer-based control systems for manufacturing equipment.
• Experience with quality inspection in a production setting, including checking products against specifications.
• Capability to monitor production processes and respond to issues in a timely and effective manner.
• Ability to stand on your feet for 12-hour shifts on a regular basis.
• Physical ability to regularly lift 10 lbs, frequently lift 30 lbs, and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, hands-on role involving machine operation, general production, and packaging tasks.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience as a machine operator in bottle, packaging, or similar manufacturing is beneficial.
• Experience in general labor, assembly, or general production work is helpful.
• Familiarity with blueprint reading or CNC environments is an advantage.
• Strong attention to detail to identify quality issues quickly and accurately.
• Ability to follow GMP guidelines and written procedures consistently.
• Willingness to work rotating 12-hour shifts on a 2 on / 2 off, 3 on / 3 off schedule.
• Reliability and punctuality for long-shift operations.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn during the probationary training period.

Why Work Here?

You will join a stable manufacturing operation that invests in long-term growth and development. There is clear room for advancement, with leadership examples of production managers who began as operators. You can expect regular performance evaluations at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, along with pay increases when transitioning to a direct role. The culture emphasizes inclusion and recognition, with holiday parties and quarterly outings where all team members, including contractors, are invited and have opportunities to win prizes.

Work Environment

The facility manufactures bottles and caps for products such as shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, and hand soap in a production environment that follows Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines. Work is performed on and around automated bottle-making and packaging equipment, with continuous production lines and computer-controlled systems. The standard schedule consists of 12-hour rotating shifts on a 2 on / 2 off, 3 on / 3 off pattern, with primary shift times of 6:00 pm to 6:30 am (A/C and B/D shifts). During the approximately 30-day probationary period, training typically runs from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm on the same 2 on / 2 off, 3 on / 3 off rotation. The role requires extended periods of standing, walking, and reaching in a manufacturing setting, along with regular lifting tasks. The dress code includes steel-toed boots, long pants (jeans or khakis), and a t-shirt. The company provides ear plugs, hair nets, and other necessary protective items to support a safe and compliant work environment.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Iowa City, IA.

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $23.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Iowa City,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 9, 2026.

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.

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.

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.

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.