**Job Title: Machine Operator II Powders Department**
**Job Description**
This role operates production machinery in the powders department, including slitting, assembly, labeling, quality checks, and packaging. The position involves minor equipment setup and basic mechanical troubleshooting to keep machines running safely and efficiently in a clean manufacturing environment.
**Responsibilities**
+ Operate production machinery in the powders department, including slitter and related equipment, in a safe and efficient manner.
+ Perform assembly, labeling, quality control checks, and packaging of products according to established procedures and standards.
+ Complete minor machine setup and adjustments as needed to support production requirements.
+ Monitor machines during operation, identify issues, and perform basic mechanical fixes to minimize downtime.
+ Follow written work instructions, production orders, and standard operating procedures accurately.
+ Use basic math skills to measure, count, and verify materials and finished products.
+ Work collaboratively in teams of 24 people to meet production goals and maintain workflow.
+ Maintain a clean and organized work area and follow all housekeeping and safety guidelines.
+ Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times and comply with all safety policies.
+ Support overtime needs based on production volume and scheduling requirements.
**Essential Skills**
+ At least 2 years of machine operation experience, preferably in a powders or similar production environment.
+ At least 2 years of experience working in a manufacturing environment.
+ Hands-on machine operation skills with the ability to run and monitor production equipment.
+ Basic mechanical aptitude with the ability to fix machines as needed within the scope of the role.
+ Ability to read and write to follow work instructions, labels, and documentation accurately.
+ Ability to perform basic math for counting, measuring, and verifying production quantities.
+ Comfort working as part of a small team and communicating effectively with coworkers.
+ Reliability in following schedules, safety procedures, and production guidelines.
**Additional Skills & Qualifications**
+ Previous experience operating slitter or similar converting equipment in a production setting.
+ Experience working in a clean manufacturing environment.
+ Strong attention to detail for labeling, quality checks, and packaging tasks.
+ Willingness to learn additional equipment and processes within the powders department.
+ Flexibility to work overtime based on production needs.
**Why Work Here?**
You will work in a clean, well-organized production environment that values teamwork, safety, and reliability. The schedule offers a consistent daytime shift with the opportunity for overtime when production volume increases. You will have the chance to build and strengthen your mechanical and machine operation skills while working closely with a supportive team focused on meeting shared production goals.
**Work Environment**
This role is based in a clean manufacturing facility, primarily in the powders department, working in teams of 23 or 34 people. The standard schedule is first shift, Monday through Thursday, 5:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with overtime possible depending on production volume. The dress code includes jeans or other durable work pants; leggings and sweatpants are not permitted. Personal protective equipment is required, including safety glasses, nitrile gloves, and cut-resistant gloves, which are provided on-site. You must supply your own steel-toe boots. The environment emphasizes safe work practices, teamwork, and consistent adherence to production and quality standards.
**Job Type & Location**
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ames, IA.
**Pay and Benefits**
The pay range for this position is $20.00 – $20.00/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)
**Job Type & Location**
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ames, IA.
**Application Deadline**
This position is anticipated to close on Nov 2, 2026.
**Workplace Type**
This is a fully onsite position in Ames,IA.
**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.