Job Information
Aerotek Machine Operator in Albert Lea, Minnesota
Job Title: Machine Operator
Job Description
The Machine Operator will load and unload production machines, operate equipment by following established procedures, and perform visual inspections to ensure product quality. This role requires standing for extended periods, carefully monitoring output, and preparing finished products for shipment in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Responsibilities
Load raw materials and components into production machines according to established procedures.
Unload finished or semi-finished products from machines safely and efficiently.
Operate machines by initiating and monitoring cycles, including starting, stopping, and controlling basic machine functions.
Perform continuous visual inspection of products as they are completed to identify defects or quality issues.
Sort, count, and place completed products into boxes for shipping and further processing.
Follow basic quality inspection procedures to verify that products meet required standards.
Maintain a clean and organized work area around the machines to support safety and efficiency.
Stand and remain attentive at the machine for 8–12 hours per shift as required by production demands.
Follow all safety guidelines, including proper use of required footwear and adherence to facility rules.
Collaborate with team members and shift leads to meet daily production goals and timelines.
Essential Skills
High school diploma or GED.
At least 1 year of machine operating experience in a manufacturing environment, specifically involving loading and unloading machines.
A minimum of 6 months of basic quality inspection experience.
Ability to stand for 8–10 hours per day, supported by past work history and references.
Experience working in a manufacturing or production setting.
Ability to perform consistent visual inspections and identify obvious product defects.
Capability to follow written and verbal instructions and adhere to standard operating procedures.
Reliability and willingness to work scheduled shifts and occasional overtime when needed.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Previous experience in a high-volume manufacturing facility.
Comfort working around industrial machinery and equipment.
Attention to detail and strong focus on product quality.
Basic understanding of workplace safety practices in a manufacturing environment.
Ability to work effectively as part of a production team.
Why Work Here?
You will join a large, established manufacturing operation with a stable workforce and clear processes, where your contribution directly supports production goals. The schedule offers three-day weekends most weeks, with overtime available but not mandatory, supporting work-life balance. Shift differentials provide additional earning potential for non-day shifts, and the environment offers opportunities to gain valuable hands-on manufacturing and quality experience that can support long-term career growth.
Work Environment
This role is based in a manufacturing facility with approximately 250 full-time employees. The environment can become very warm during the summer months and requires comfort working on your feet for most of the shift. The standard schedule is Monday through Thursday, with first shift running from 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and second shift from 2:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., and some overtime available on Fridays that is not mandatory. A shift differential of $2.00 per hour applies to both second and third shifts. The dress code includes jeans and steel-toed boots, and shorts are not permitted. You will work around industrial machinery in a production setting that emphasizes safety, consistency, and adherence to procedures.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Albert Lea, MN.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $13.00 - $15.00/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 Albert Lea,MN.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 22, 2026.
About Aerotek:
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 meets 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.