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Assistant Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Graphic Packaging Holding

Gluer Assistant Operator

Newton, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Support Operators in the assurance that the quality of the cartons meet customer specifications both at the feeder position and packer/stacker positions. Job functions include but are not limited to ...

Grain Millers

Mill or Packaging Operator

Saint Ansgar, IA

$17 - $22.50/hr

Assistant Operator Responsibilities * Support Operators in daily tasks and learn the role for future advancement. * Perform sampling and periodic machine checks to ensure consistent product quality ...

Grain Millers St. Ansgar

Mill or Packaging Operator

IA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Assistant Operator Responsibilities * Support Operators in daily tasks and learn the role for future advancement. * Perform sampling and periodic machine checks to ensure consistent product quality ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$28.09 - $31.12/hr

New hires placed directly into an Assistant Operator position must learn and qualify for the Utility position within 9 months. Job Duties * Focus on safety, quality and integrity. * Shift operation ...

Agropur

Cheese Utility Operator

Hull, IA · On-site

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 ...

Agropur Cooperative

Whey Utility Operator I

Hull, IA · On-site

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 ...

Agropur

Whey Utility Operator I

Hull, IA · On-site

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 ...

Morton Buildings

Operator

Spencer, IA

$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 ...

Morton Buildings

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 ...

Colony Brands, Inc.

Forklift Operator

Clinton, IA

$18/hr

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 ...

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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 May 30, 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 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 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 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 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 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:
Assistant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Operator job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,718 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Gluer Assistant Operator

Gluer Assistant Operator

Graphic Packaging International

Newton, IA • On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Graphic Packaging International rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 109 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

If you are a GPI employee, please click the Employee Login before applying.

At Graphic Packaging International, we produce the paper cup that held your coffee this morning, the basket that transported those bottles of craft beer you enjoyed last weekend, and the microwave tray that heated your gourmet meal last night. We're one of the largest manufacturers of paperboard and paper-based packaging for some of the world's most recognized brands of food, beverage, foodservice, household, personal care and pet products. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, we are collaborative, diverse, innovative individuals who create inspired packaging while giving back to our communities. 

With over 25,000 employees working in more than 130 locations worldwide, we strive to be environmentally responsible in our industry and in the communities where we operate. We are committed to workplace diversity and offer compensation and benefits programs that are among the industry's best to reward the talented people who make our company successful.

If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of, we'd love to hear from you.

A World of Difference. Made Possible.

Safely operate all assigned equipment to produce a quality folding carton that matches the customer's specifications.

Support Operators in the assurance that the quality of the cartons meet customer specifications both at the feeder position and packer/stacker positions.

Job functions include but are not limited to the following:

  • Maintains a safe work environment for yourself and other associates 
  • Notifies supervisor, maintenance, or quality immediately when a problem occurs with the equipment or product as well as follows all company rules and procedures 
  • Maintains all required documentation in accordance with the current SOPs
  • Load cases into the auto packer and hand packs cartons as needed
  • Completes quality checks at required intervals
  • Ensures correct carton and case counts, and finished cases are stacked and labeled appropriately

Required Skills

  • Knowledge of basic manufacturing practices and strong problem-solving skills 
  • Ability to effectively communicate any quality and/or production concerns to operators on the prior or next shift 
  • Basic mechanical ability to adjust the equipment to maximize production and ensure quality standards are met or exceeded
  • Ability to work in a physically demanding environment
  • Excellent attendance record with flexibility to work rotating shifts & overtime 
  • Maintains cooperative working relationships, demonstrates a positive attitude and consideration towards fellow employees and supervision 
  • Performs all duties in an independent manner with minimal direction and supervision

 

Physical Demands

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to move in a pushing and pulling motion when helping change loads; frequently required to use eye, hand and foot coordination when making load change.
  • Hand coordination is required of both hands for simple grasping.
  • Must be able to distinguish color to complete quality checks
  • The employee is frequently required to lift up to 40 pounds.
  • Frequent/strenuous physical effort (lifting, moving heavy objects, etc.) required.
  • Must be able to push, pull, and carry up to 40 pounds.
  • Operates PIV to move loads as needed

GPI's Benefit Program

  • Competitive Pay
  • 401(k) w/employer matching
  • Health & Welfare Benefits
    • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
    • Short and Long-Term Disability
    • Life Insurance
    • Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
    • Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
  • Various Voluntary benefits
  • Adoption Assistance Program
  • Employee Discount Programs
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Paid Time Off + 11 paid company holidays each year

Applications accepted on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.

Graphic Packaging is an equal opportunity employer and abides by all applicable federal, state provincial and local laws with respect to the recruitment and hiring process.  We are committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and hiring process free from discrimination or harassment based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.  Should you require an accommodation for a disability, please contact your Human Resources representative or email accommodations@graphicpkg.com. 

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