Machine Operator

Job Title:
Machine Operator
Job Description

As a Machine Operator, you will be responsible for operating various machines such as lasers, CNC mills/lathes, Angle-masters, and Press Brakes to cut, fold, bend, drill, and mold steel for agricultural structures like catwalks and stairs. You will need to operate at least three machines autonomously within the Des Moines LeMar Plant.

• Operate machines to cut, fold, bend, drill, and mold steel for agricultural structures.
• Ensure all parts match production prints by measuring, checking, and signing off on them.
• Communicate effectively with Detailing, Industrial Engineer Technicians, and others regarding prints, programming, tooling, and machine/equipment issues.
• Operate forklifts, overhead cranes, jib cranes, and other material movement equipment to handle raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods.
• Train others on machine controls, processes, and overall machine use.

• Experience in machine operation, including CNC, laser, press-brake, and sheet metal production.
• Ability to read blueprints and a tape measure.
• Prior work experience in a steel manufacturing environment.
• High school diploma or GED.

• Off-line programming ability is ideal but not required.

Join a company experiencing significant growth, aiming to double in size over the next three years. They are investing heavily in updating equipment, reorganizing the shop, and improving workflow processes. Enjoy a standard 50-hour workweek with opportunities for overtime.

The work environment includes a 1st shift from 6 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Thursday, and a 2nd shift from 4:30 pm to 3 am, Monday to Thursday. Currently, employees work at least 50 hours a week, including Fridays. The plant experiences seasonal temperature variations, with hot and humid conditions in the summer and cold conditions in the winter near open overhead doors.

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

This position is anticipated to close on Jan 20, 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 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 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.