Machine Operator

Machine Operator

This role operates a variety of metal fabrication machinery to cut, bend, drill, and shape steel components used in catwalks, stairs, and other agricultural structures. You will set up and run multiple machines, verify parts against production prints, and help maintain efficient workflow in a growing manufacturing facility.

Responsibilities

• Operate machines such as lasers, CNC mills and lathes, angle-masters, press brakes, and other equipment to cut, fold, bend, drill, and mold steel components used in structural products.
• Work autonomously on at least three different machines within the plant, ensuring safe and efficient operation throughout the shift.
• Measure, inspect, and sign off on all parts to verify they meet production prints and quality standards.
• Interpret and work from blueprints and production drawings to set up machines and produce accurate parts.
• Collaborate and communicate clearly with detailing staff, industrial engineering technicians, and other team members regarding prints, programming, tooling, and equipment issues or improvements.
• Assist with or perform basic off-line programming for machines when needed, contributing to process efficiency.
• Operate forklifts, overhead cranes, jib cranes, and other material-handling equipment to move, load, and unload raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, following established safety procedures and production guidelines.
• Identify and report machine or equipment issues promptly, and support troubleshooting and continuous improvement efforts.
• Train other team members on machine controls, processes, and overall equipment use to support team capability and cross-training.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience operating manufacturing machinery such as lasers, CNC mills or lathes, press brakes, angle-masters, or similar equipment in a production environment.
• Prior work experience in a steel manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and production prints accurately.
• Ability to measure accurately and read a tape measure with precision.
• Experience operating forklifts, overhead cranes, jib cranes, or other material-handling equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and familiarity with sheet metal and steel fabrication processes.
• Effective communication skills to work with detailing, engineering, and production teams regarding prints, programming, tooling, and equipment concerns.
• Capability to work independently and operate multiple machines with minimal supervision.
• High school diploma or GED.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Off-line programming experience for CNC or laser equipment is highly desirable but not required.
• Experience with CNC saws and laser operation in a production setting.
• Ability and willingness to train others on machine operations and processes.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, growing manufacturing environment with evolving processes.

Why Work Here?

You join a company that is actively investing in its future and yours. The organization is experiencing significant growth, with a goal to double in size over the next three years, and is dedicating substantial resources to updating equipment and reorganizing the shop for better workflow. You benefit from modernized tools, improved processes, and the opportunity to grow your skills alongside an expanding team of welders and machine operators. A standard 50-hour workweek offers consistent hours and the chance to earn additional income through regular overtime, providing both stability and financial opportunity.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, first-shift position, typically working 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, with additional hours on Fridays to reach an approximately 50-hour workweek. The role is based in a steel manufacturing plant that uses equipment such as lasers, CNC mills and lathes, press brakes, CNC saws, and various material-handling systems including forklifts, overhead cranes, and jib cranes. The facility experiences seasonal temperature changes; summers can be hot and humid inside the building, and winters can be cold, especially when working near open overhead doors. You work on the production floor around sheet metal and steel fabrication processes, following appropriate safety procedures and wearing suitable industrial work attire and protective equipment as required for a manufacturing environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Des Moines, IA.

Pay and Benefits

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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Des Moines, IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 7, 2026.