Machine Operator

Aerotek; Fort Dodge (IA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Health, dental, vision

401(k) plan

Job summary

Aerotek in Fort Dodge, IA, is seeking a Machine Operator to set up and operate metal fabrication equipment, reading blueprints and job orders to produce precise parts.

You will program CNC machines, use measuring tools, and work with cranes to move materials. The role emphasizes safety, quality, and teamwork on a daytime, on-site schedule.

Preferred candidates have about 2 years of relevant production experience and a high school diploma; company offers comprehensive benefits and steady hours.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is beneficial but not required.
• Approximately 2 years of production or machine operation experience.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred.
• Able to read CAD/SolidWorks drawings.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate saws for cutting materials according to blueprints and job orders.
• Set up and operate press brakes to form parts to specified dimensions and tolerances.
• Operate shears and miscellaneous hole-making equipment to complete production tasks.
• Read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, SolidWorks drawings, and job orders to determine material requirements, dimensions, and machine settings.
• Write and adjust computer programs for running CNC equipment, ensuring programs meet production requirements.
• Monitor machines during operation, make adjustments as needed, and troubleshoot basic issues to maintain product quality and efficiency.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, following industrial safety procedures and company safety standards at all times.
• Operate forklifts, jib cranes, and overhead cranes safely to move materials and products as required.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Measuring tools

Teamwork

Safety compliance

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Lifts up to 50 lbs

Independent work

CAD/SolidWorks interpretation

CNC understanding

Education

High school diploma or equivalent (GED) beneficial

Tools

Forklift operation

Jib crane operation

Overhead crane operation

CNC programming

CAD/SolidWorks interpretation

Job description

Machine Operator

Job Description

This role involves setting up and operating a variety of metal fabrication equipment to produce high-quality parts to precise specifications. You will work from blueprints and job orders, use measuring tools and computer programs, and support fabrication activities while consistently following established safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate saws for cutting materials according to blueprints and job orders.
• Set up and operate press brakes to form parts to specified dimensions and tolerances.
• Operate shears and miscellaneous hole-making equipment to complete production tasks.
• Assist with general fabrication tasks as needed to support production workflow.
• Read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, SolidWorks drawings, and job orders to determine material requirements, dimensions, and machine settings.
• Use tape measures and other measuring tools to verify dimensions and ensure quality cutting and precise work.
• Write and adjust computer programs for running CNC equipment, ensuring programs meet production requirements.
• Monitor machines during operation, make adjustments as needed, and troubleshoot basic issues to maintain product quality and efficiency.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, following industrial safety procedures and company safety standards at all times.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members, follow directions, and complete tasks efficiently with a high level of quality.
• Operate forklifts, jib cranes, and overhead cranes safely to move materials and products as required.
• Participate in safety training meetings and follow all safety protocols and guidelines.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support production and fabrication operations.

Essential Skills

• Ability to understand and read blueprints and job orders.
• Ability to read and use a tape measure accurately.
• Understanding of industrial safety procedures and commitment to always adhere to company safety standards.
• Good problem-solving skills and basic math skills.
• Ability to take directions, communicate clearly with others, and complete tasks efficiently with a high level of quality.
• Training and experience operating a forklift, jib crane, and overhead crane.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to interpret CAD and SolidWorks drawings.
• Ability to decipher computer programs related to machine operation and production.
• Ability to maintain high standards of quality cutting and precise work.
• Computer skills to write programs for running a CNC machine.
• Strong work ethic and demonstrated productivity, dependability, resourcefulness, efficiency, and professionalism.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly and perform physical tasks such as standing, walking, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Capability to work in a moderate noise environment and maintain focus and attention to detail.
• Approximately 2 years of previous production or machine operation experience, including experience in a manufacturing environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) is beneficial but not strictly required, as candidates without a high school diploma may be considered.
• Experience in food manufacturing or similar production environments is an advantage.
• Comfort working with close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus to inspect parts and monitor machines.
• Willingness to participate in periodic performance reviews (for example, 30, 60, and 90 days) and respond positively to feedback.
• Interest in continuous improvement and learning new equipment, programs, or fabrication techniques.
• Reliability in attendance and punctuality to support consistent production schedules.

Why Work Here?

The organization offers a stable, direct placement opportunity with a strong focus on safety, benefits, and long‑term growth. Team members enjoy a consistent daytime schedule with minimal overtime, generous paid holidays, and comprehensive health, dental, vision, life insurance, and short‑term disability coverage paid by the company. A 401(k) plan with company match and profit sharing supports long‑term financial security, while regular performance reviews create opportunities for occasional raises and career development. Safety is a priority, with strong safety records and ongoing training that foster a supportive and responsible work culture.

Work Environment

The work environment is a fabrication and production setting that is heated but not climate controlled, so temperatures may vary with the seasons. The typical schedule runs from 6:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Friday, with overtime rarely required. Employees regularly stand, walk, and use their hands to handle tools, controls, and materials, and they may occasionally reach, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The role requires regularly lifting and moving up to 50 pounds. The noise level is usually moderate, consistent with a manufacturing environment. Safety is strongly emphasized, supported by good safety records and regular safety training meetings. The facility uses equipment such as saws, press brakes, shears, CNC machines, forklifts, jib cranes, and overhead cranes. Personal protective equipment is supported through annual provision of steel‑toed boots with a stipend, paid safety glasses, and provided welding helmets, contributing to a safe and professional work setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Fort Dodge, IA.

Pay and Benefits

• The pay range for this position is $35360.00 - $41600.00/yr.
• -401K-Health, dental, and vision

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.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Fort Dodge,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 4, 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.