Machine Operator

Machine Operator

This role operates a variety of metal fabrication machines to cut, bend, drill, and form steel components used in catwalks, stairs, and other agricultural structures. You will set up and run equipment such as lasers, CNC mills and lathes, angle-masters, and press brakes, while ensuring parts meet production specifications. The position requires strong attention to detail, the ability to work with minimal supervision, and a commitment to safety and quality in a busy steel manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate multiple machines, including lasers, CNC mills and lathes, angle-masters, press brakes, and related equipment to cut, fold, bend, drill, and mold steel components for structural applications.
• Work autonomously and efficiently run a minimum of three different machines within the plant, adjusting setups and parameters as needed to meet production requirements.
• Measure, inspect, and verify all parts against production prints, ensuring dimensions and tolerances are accurate, and sign off on completed parts to confirm quality.
• Interpret and follow blueprints and production drawings to determine machine settings, tooling requirements, and fabrication steps.
• Communicate clearly with detailing staff, industrial engineering technicians, and other team members regarding prints, programming needs, tooling, and any machine or equipment issues or improvement opportunities.
• Use forklifts, overhead cranes, jib cranes, and other material handling equipment to safely move, load, and unload raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, following safety procedures and reporting any hazards, equipment malfunctions, or quality concerns.
• Assist with or perform basic off-line programming of machines when needed to support production, even though this is not a core requirement.
• Train other team members on machine controls, operating procedures, production processes, and safe equipment use.
• Contribute to process improvement by providing feedback on workflow, equipment utilization, and production efficiency.

Essential Skills

• Previous experience working in a steel manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in operating metal fabrication equipment such as lasers, CNC mills, CNC lathes, angle-masters, press brakes, and related machinery.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and production prints accurately.
• Strong measurement skills, including the ability to read and use a tape measure correctly.
• Experience operating forklifts, overhead cranes, jib cranes, or similar material handling equipment in an industrial setting.
• Capability to work independently and operate at least three different machines within the plant with minimal supervision.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality parts within specified tolerances.
• Clear verbal communication skills to collaborate with engineering, detailing, and production teams.
• Physical ability to work in a steel fabrication environment, including standing for extended periods and handling materials safely.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with CNC programming or off-line programming for lasers, mills, lathes, or similar equipment.
• Experience in sheet metal fabrication or production environments.
• Familiarity with CNC saws and laser operation in a manufacturing setting.
• Ability to train and mentor other machine operators on controls, processes, and best practices.
• Strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot machine, tooling, or process issues.
• Comfort working with multiple types of machines and adapting to new equipment as it is introduced.
• Demonstrated focus on process improvement and workflow optimization.

Why Work Here?

You will join a growing organization that is actively investing in its future, with a clear goal to significantly expand operations over the next three years. The company is committing substantial resources to update equipment, reorganize and streamline the shop, and add more welders and machine operators to improve workflow and efficiency. You can expect a stable, full-time schedule with a standard 50-hour work week, offering consistent opportunities for overtime and increased earnings. As the operation grows, you will have the chance to work with newer equipment, contribute to process improvements, and develop your skills in a supportive, production-focused environment.

Work Environment

This position is based in a steel manufacturing plant on a first-shift schedule, typically working 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with additional hours currently extending into Fridays for a standard 50-hour work week. The environment is a busy production floor with active use of lasers, CNC equipment, press brakes, and various material handling systems such as forklifts, overhead cranes, and jib cranes. Seasonal temperatures in the plant vary; summers can be hot and humid, and winters can be cold, especially when working near open overhead doors. Team members should be prepared to work in these conditions and wear appropriate industrial work attire suitable for a steel fabrication setting, including safety gear as required.

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. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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 Sep 1, 2026.