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Assistant Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Cheese Utility Operator I develops and maintains a working knowledge of all plant positions to assist with personnel shortages thereby meeting manufacturing requirements in accordance with ...

The Whey Utility Operator I develops and maintains a working knowledge of all whey plant positions to assist with personnel shortages thereby meeting manufacturing requirements in accordance with ...

About the Role ChampionX has an immediate need for an Assistant Plant Operator in our Chemical Technologies group located in Odessa, TX . This position will join the production team in the Odessa ...

Operator

Spencer, IA · On-site

$18/hr

The Operator position is an active member of a production team that will assist in the manufacturing and/or assembly of building components to ensure daily production needs are being met. Reasonable ...

Operator

Spencer, IA · On-site

$18/hr

The Operator position is an active member of a production team that will assist in the manufacturing and/or assembly of building components to ensure daily production needs are being met. Reasonable ...

MACHINE OPERATOR

Waterloo, IA

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator will be responsible for performing routine tasks related to the feed ... Provide excellent customer service and assist customers when needed * Observe and enforce all ...

MACHINE OPERATOR

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

The Machine Operator will be responsible for performing routine tasks related to the feed ... Provide excellent customer service and assist customers when needed * Observe and enforce all ...

Operators are also asked to assist in unloading containers by hand to receive products. * Starting Wage $18.00 per hour. * Earn more with our Performance Incentive. * 1st shift positions. * Flexible ...

Dozer Operator

Grimes, IA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Operators will assist other crew members with general labor when work is complete. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Safely and skillfully operate Dozer and other standard concrete ...

Operators will assist other crew members with general labor when work is complete. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Safely and skillfully operate Dozer and other standard concrete ...

Equipment Operator

Carlisle, IA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

... promote safety and efficiency. * Assist in the setup and breakdown of job sites as needed ... Valid commercial driving license (CDL) preferred for operating various vehicles on-site.

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Assistant Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do assistant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant operator in Iowa is $18.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $21.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Assistant Operators face during shift changes, and how can they be managed effectively?

Assistant Operators often encounter challenges during shift changes, such as incomplete handovers or miscommunication about ongoing tasks. To manage these effectively, it’s important to follow standardized handover procedures, maintain accurate and up-to-date logs, and communicate proactively with both outgoing and incoming team members. Building strong teamwork and attention to detail helps ensure a smooth transition and minimizes operational disruptions.

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

To thrive as an Assistant Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, control panels, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and good teamwork skills help you excel in supporting smooth operations. These skills ensure safe, efficient production processes and help maintain workplace safety and productivity.

What is the difference between Assistant Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectAssistant OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in setup, monitoring, and maintenance of machineryOperates machinery directly, responsible for production output
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, construction, and industrial plantsPrimarily in manufacturing, processing, and production facilities

Assistant Operators support Machine Operators by preparing equipment and monitoring processes, while Machine Operators handle the direct operation of machinery. Both roles require similar credentials and are vital in industrial settings, but Machine Operators have more responsibility for operating equipment independently.

What are Assistant Operators?

Assistant Operators are entry-level professionals who support the operation of machinery or equipment in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or logistics. They work under the supervision of senior operators to help monitor processes, perform basic maintenance, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Their responsibilities may include setting up machines, loading materials, inspecting products, and reporting any issues to supervisors. Assistant Operators play a key role in maintaining efficient production and minimizing downtime. This position is often a stepping stone to more advanced operator roles.
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 Assistant Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Assistant Operator job openings:

Power Plant Utility/Operator - Co-Generation - Des Moines, IA

ADM

Des Moines, IA

$28.93 - $31.12/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


ADM rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 184 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 345 rated logistics


Job description

Job Description Power Plant Utility/Operator - Co-Generation Plant$1,500 Sign-On Bonus |$28.93/hr Starting PayLocation: ADM Soybean Processing Plant1940 Hull Ave. Des Moines, IA 50313Shift: 12-hr rotating swing shift (7AM-7PM / 7PM-7AM)Job Type: Full Time (40 hours per week)Compensation: $28.93 - $31.12/hour (depending on level of experience and license held)Plus $1.20/hour shift differential on rotating shiftsThis is a Utility position for the ADM Co-Generation plant in Des Moines. Utility employee applicants must have the aptitude and develop the skillset necessary to advance to the Operator positions at the location.

New hires placed directly into an Assistant Operator position must learn and qualify for the Utility position within 9 months.Job DutiesFocus on safety, quality and integrity. Shift operation (procedures) and equipment checks. Water treatment lab tests.

Generate accurate legible documentation and log records. Troubleshoot and perform basic maintenance on Co-Gen equipment and auxiliaries. Receiving and material handling, chemicals/materials.Requirements Preferred Experience: 2 years of power plant employment or relevant experience in a manufacturing environment or a relevant degree in power plant operations.

Applicant must possess basic math, science, and problem solving skills.Applicant must be able to work in all types of climates both inside and out including extreme hot and cold temperatures, noisy environments, heights, dusty environments, all of which require use of Personal Protective Equipment.Applicant must be able to stand for long periods, work in confined spaces and have good physical dexterity; i.e., bend, kneel, climb steps and ladders, and lift 50 Lbs. With training, the applicant must be able to operate heavy equipment including overhead cranes, pay-loaders, forklifts, and skid-steers.Attendance and punctuality is required including some mandatory overtime.All employees are subject to random drug screensApplicant must have the ability to work independently in an organized safe manner.Applicants must be willing to work rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays.Good computer and mechanical skills a plus. ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.

REF:109753BRBase pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

The pay for this position is expected to be:$28.93/hourBenefits and Perks Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares). Additional benefits include:Paid time off including paid holidays.Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.Tuition assistance.Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.

*Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.#IncludingYouDiversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.We welcome everyone to apply.

We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by lawAbout ADM At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company.

Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.


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