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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Aire Serv

Plumbing apprentice

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

Join Aire Serv of Council Bluffs as a Plumbing Apprentice and kickstart your career in the plumbing ... All independently owned and operated franchised businesses operate under the service brands' marks ...

Nestle

Electrical Apprentice

Davenport, IA · On-site

$31/hr

As an Electrical Apprentice, you'll work alongside experienced maintenance electricians to observe ... Contact us at accommodations@nestle.com or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator ...

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Plasma Operator

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Plasma Operator Req Id: 2387 Workplace Type: On-Site Job Shift: 2nd Brand: Ryerson Job Location ... Successful candidates will be enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program as part of their ...

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Machine Operator

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.25/hr

Machine Operator Req Id: 2475 Workplace Type: On-Site Job Shift: 2nd Brand: Ryerson Job Location ... Successful candidates will be enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program as part of their ...

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Apprentice Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$18

$27

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Iowa is $18.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes entry-level certifications such as OSHA training are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in this hands-on environment. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient, and accurate operation of machinery, which is critical to maintaining production standards and workplace safety.

What can I expect during my first few months as an Apprentice Operator?

During your initial months as an Apprentice Operator, you'll primarily focus on learning operational procedures, safety protocols, and equipment handling under the guidance of experienced operators. You'll rotate through different stations, participate in hands-on training, and gradually take on more responsibility as you demonstrate competence. Close supervision and feedback are typical, as safety and accuracy are paramount in this role. Expect to work in a team-oriented environment where collaboration and clear communication are essential for smooth operations and troubleshooting.

What are Apprentice Operators?

Apprentice Operators are entry-level workers who are learning to operate machinery or equipment under the supervision of experienced operators. They typically participate in a structured training program that combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. The goal is to develop the technical skills and knowledge needed to perform the operator role independently. Apprentice Operators are common in industries such as manufacturing, utilities, and construction, where hands-on training is essential. Their responsibilities may include monitoring equipment, assisting with maintenance, and following safety procedures.

What is the difference between Apprentice Operator vs Operator?

AspectApprentice OperatorOperator
Required CredentialsBasic certifications, on-the-job trainingAdvanced certifications, experience
Work EnvironmentSupervised training settingFull operational environment
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, entry-level rolesFull-time operational roles in manufacturing, utilities

The main difference between an Apprentice Operator and an Operator is experience and certification level. Apprentice Operators are in training, gaining skills under supervision, while Operators have completed training and are fully responsible for operations. Apprentices focus on learning, whereas Operators handle daily operational tasks independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:
Apprentice Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 19% Full Time, and 81% Part Time. Highlights an 46% Physical, and 54% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,403 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Technician Apprentice - Postville, IA

Technician Apprentice - Postville, IA

Ziegler CAT

Postville, IA

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Ziegler CAT rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 139 rated vehicle equipment hire

Job description

The Ziegler Apprenticeship Program offers on-the-job training with no prior experience or education required. As a Technician Apprentice, you will build your skillset through hands-on and classroom training over the course of the 14-month program. The goal at the completion of the training period is for all apprentices to earn a career as a diesel repair technician at the Ziegler branch near you. This may be a great opportunity for you if you are interested in being a diesel mechanic and have graduated high school, are exiting the military, or looking for a career change.
Ziegler will provide you with tools/toolbox, hands on and classroom training led by mechanically skilled and trained instructors, and a full time position with pay, benefits, and PTO. Starting out as a Technician Apprentice, you will spend 50% of your time at the branch near you and 50% of your time at a Ziegler training facility, likely in Des Moines. During your training time, the cost of hotel, food, and travel will be covered. As you progress throughout the program, the amount of classroom training will likely decrease.
Course work includes:
General shop skills
Hydraulic and hydrostatic systems
Diesel engine overhaul and fuel systems
Powertrain systems and undercarriage
Electrical and machine electronic systems
Electronic engines and tier 4 emissions
Welding and flame cutting
Machine brake systems
Applied failure analysis
HVAC
Report writing

Responsibilities:

  • Attend and actively participate in all classroom and in person trainings
  • Perform all assigned work, including minor repairs and preventative maintenance services
  • Partner with assigned mentor and senior technicians in completing large and complex repairs
  • Maintain a clean and safe work area, adhere to all safety procedures
  • Follow standard operating procedures
  • Clean and organize equipment in accordance with Ziegler appearance standards
  • Assist to prepare new equipment for rent or sale
  • Perform other duties as assigned/required
  • Maintain paperwork documentation of work performed (work orders) in a complete and timely manner on a daily/job basis
  • Document labor, addition of segments, assuring that work order can be closed and billed as communicated with the customer
  • Positively interact with manager and team members to satisfy customer needs


Qualifications:

  • Desire for a career as a diesel mechanic
  • High school degree/GED required with minimum GPA of 2.5
  • High school transcript required
  • Commitment to the 14-month program
  • Ability to travel. Training courses are held at various Ziegler locations (housing provided) and your local branch
  • You must be at least 18 years old when the program begins
  • Strong work ethic, ability to work well as part of a team, and mechanical aptitude required
  • Ability to work cleanly and safely
  • Clean driving record

Minimum Physical Requirements:

  • Push/pull up to 50 lbs
  • Lift/carry up to 60 lbs
  • Lift bulky objects
  • Standing, walking, using hands, talking, hearing, neck rotation, trunk rotation, stair climbing, ladder climbing, repetitive bending, kneeling, sustained squat, forward reaching, overhead reaching, supine overhead reaching, crawling, bin lift, high steps, fingering/grasping - able to use bolt box.
  • Working Conditions may be indoor and/or outdoor. Noise level may be loud at times.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. Ziegler Inc. will reasonably accommodate the known disabilities of qualified disabled individuals.

SEE YOURSELF AT ZIEGLER

Founded in 1914, Ziegler is a third-generation, family-owned CAT dealer with over 2400 employees across 30+ locations in Minnesota, Iowa and northern Missouri. Since day one Ziegler has had the same philosophy- if the customer is successful- then Ziegler will be successful. That is why Ziegler is committed to providing employees with the best possible work environment and the right tools for career development. This means great benefits, work/life balance, and ongoing professional development and training. Fulfill your calling by starting a career with Ziegler today!

The pay range for this position is $17.00 to $20.00

Starting wage is dependent on skills, experience, education and location. Pay range may vary by 10% depending upon the applicant's location. Along with competitive pay, full time positions are benefits eligible which includes:

  • Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance

  • 15 days of PTO your first year, accrual starts day 1

  • 9 paid holidays

  • 401(k) plan with company contribution and match

  • HSA (Health Savings Account), Ziegler contributes up to $1000 tax-free each year

  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance, FSA & EAP

  • Paid Parental Leave & Funeral Leave

  • Fitness membership discount

  • Education Assistance

  • Safety Boot Reimbursement, PPE & Uniforms provided

  • Tool Insurance

  • Safe, clean and friendly work environment

At Ziegler Inc. we're committed to equal opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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