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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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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 Jun 1, 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:
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.
Route Sales & Service Apprentice

Route Sales & Service Apprentice

CertaSite

Bettendorf, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


CertaSite rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 32 rated health and safety providers


Job description

ROLE OVERVIEW
We are looking for a route sales & service apprentice technician who has a passion for the customer and life safety. The perfect candidate loves people, is sales oriented and can successfully perform inspection, installation, testing, service, and repairs required on fire extinguishers, exit/emergency lights, and life safety general products. This is a great opportunity to start your career in fire protection and train with other experienced technicians in the trade. This is a fast paced and demanding role with high visibility within the company.
COMPANY PERKS
  • Level up training program which includes bonus when you become a billable technician
  • Education & Certification reimbursement program
  • Referral bonuses starting at $1,000 per referral
  • Comprehensive medical plan options, including dental and vision
  • 401K plan with company match
  • Generous paid time off, paid holidays, and paid parental leave
  • Management opportunities
  • Opportunities for overtime with incentives
  • Company giveaways
  • Opportunities for community service and charity involvement
  • Work at a mission-driven company, focused on people
  • Continued growth and expansion into new markets and products and services

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING
  • Learn how to inspect, test, service, and repair fire extinguishers, exit/emergency lights, and general life safety products
  • Troubleshoot and perform service and repair of fire extinguishers, exit/emergency lights, and general life safety products
  • Train on how to record and document inspections, repairs, discrepancies, and recommendations either electronically or manually
  • Maintain a good positive relationship with the customer and pass on information to the appropriate personnel for follow up, quotes, questions, or concerns
  • Spend time with our shop technicians learning how to recharge extinguishers and properly stock trucks
  • Maintain equipment and tools necessary to safely perform job
  • Evaluate customer site for additional equipment and services that customer may require
  • Work in compliance with the Company's safety program
  • Observe how to properly discuss deficiencies noted with customer, explaining the problem and its resolution
  • There may be situations which require work on nights, weekends, and/or holidays. For some locations, these demands will be more frequent or required than others.
  • Must be comfortable with heights, working on ladders or lifts, or in confined spaces

QUALIFICATIONS
  • This is an entry level position
  • Must possess the ability to calculate basic math including fractions, decimals and percentages
  • Must possess the knowledge and ability to understand and operate basic computer functions, operating systems and software applications such as Windows, Word, Apple IOS, Android and Outlook. In addition, required to learn and use industry specific devices and software
  • Must currently have a valid U.S. driver's license

IDEAL QUALITIES
  • Previous experience working a business-to-business route which requires upselling and heavy customer interaction
  • Experience in a related skilled trade
  • Acute attention to detail
  • Strong mechanical and technical aptitude
  • Highly organized and detail-oriented
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills

Who are we?
CertaSite is a fast-growing fire protection and life safety company. Fire and life safety is our passion. It's all we think about. We leverage our hard-earned expertise to give people peace of mind, confidence, and more time to pursue their core businesses. Since 2018, we have grown from four to 18 markets while serving more than 30,000 customers throughout the Midwest.
As we grow and expand into new markets, we are building a team that loves what they do and has fun doing it. If you are looking to be challenged every day, for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, and to grow with a mission- and people-driven company focused on the customer, we hope you will consider this amazing opportunity.
Our Mission: To provide a meaningful impact to as many lives as possible.
Our Vision: To be the most dependable and simplified life safety solution on the planet.
Our Values:
  • Passionate - We are on a relentless pursuit to be great, not just good enough. And we have fun doing it.
  • Impactful - Our work makes a real difference in the world. We literally save lives, but that's just the beginning.
  • Innovative - We believe there is always a better way. We don't stop until we find it.
  • Genuine - We do what we say, and we mean it. We are authentic and dependable.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Overtime may be required, and the number of hours may vary based on work location. May be exposed to all kinds of work environments. Varying work environments from hot to cold temperatures and exposure to dust. Occasionally asked to travel overnight to a customer location. Must be able to successfully lift up to 50 pounds occasionally. Frequent lifting and carrying of toolboxes, equipment, parts, tools, equipment, cabling, and/or wiring. Frequent ladder climbing and checking, pulling wire, etc. Walking, stooping, bending, crouching, kneeling, and raising hands overhead. Driving is required and the amount of time driving may vary. Required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for this position in accordance with safety standards
Equal Employment Opportunity/M/F/disability/protected veteran status
Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.