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Assistant Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Ankeny, IA

Utilities Operator - Water

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$31.95/hr

Utilities Operator Assistant - $28.753 per hour with no certifications. * Utilities Operator I - $31.946 per hour with a Grade I Water Treatment or Water Distribution operator certificate issued by ...

Access Dubuque

Forklift Operator

Dubuque, IA

$16 - $18.75/hr

Forklift Operator HODGE 1 Positions ID: 3579 Posted On 05/26/2026 Job Overview As the Forklift ... Inventory Control : Assist in maintaining accurate inventory records by documenting material ...

USA Today Co

Press Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22/hr

Prior press operator experiences preferred but will train; minimum of (3) years as a lead or assistant supervisor operating similar equipment. We Offer: * Comprehensive medical, dental & vision ...

USA Today Co

Press Operator

Des Moines, IA

$22/hr

Prior press operator experiences preferred but will train; minimum of (3) years as a lead or assistant supervisor operating similar equipment. We Offer: * Comprehensive medical, dental & vision ...

CF Industries

Operator-US

Spencer, IA

$16.75 - $22/hr

Comply with all training, environmental, health and safety programs of the Company/industry. * Assist with training and development of other operators as appropriate. * Interact and/or coordinate ...

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Operator

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$17 - $30/hr

Operator Who We Are Landmarc Environmental Systems, LLC (Landmarc) was conceived by a few ... Available to work overtime and weekends if necessary * Assist site supervisors with the materials ...

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Operator

Bettendorf, IA

$17 - $30/hr

Operator Who We Are Landmarc Environmental Systems, LLC (Landmarc) was conceived by a few ... Available to work overtime and weekends if necessary * Assist site supervisors with the materials ...

Kent Nutrition Group

MACHINE OPERATOR

Sheldon, IA

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

The Operator will perform routine tasks related to the feed production including quality control ... Mix and prepare livestock feeds efficiently assuring accuracy and high quality * Assist management ...

CF Industries Holdings, Inc.

Operator-US

Spencer, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Comply with all training, environmental, health and safety programs of the Company/industry. * Assist with training and development of other operators as appropriate. * Interact and/or coordinate ...

CF Industries

Operator-US

Spencer, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Comply with all training, environmental, health and safety programs of the Company/industry. * Assist with training and development of other operators as appropriate. * Interact and/or coordinate ...

Kent Corporation

MACHINE OPERATOR

Sheldon, IA

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

The Operator will perform routine tasks related to the feed production including quality control ... Mix and prepare livestock feeds efficiently assuring accuracy and high quality * Assist management ...

Enterprise Electrical

Equipment Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Perform daily inspections of equipment and report any malfunctions or maintenance needs. * Assist ... Heavy Equipment Operator certification preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities * Proven experience ...

Enterprise Electrical

Equipment Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Perform daily inspections of equipment and report any malfunctions or maintenance needs. * Assist ... Heavy Equipment Operator certification preferred Knowledge, Skills & Abilities * Proven experience ...

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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.

Operations Laborer

OWS Construction and Railroad Maintenance Ltd

Muscatine, IA • On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

North American Rail Products is seeking an Operations Laborer to support daily yard and material-handling activities within a fast-paced industrial environment. This role is responsible for loading and unloading materials, operating basic equipment, maintaining a clean and organized yard, and assisting with routing equipment preparation. The Operations Laborer contributes to safe and efficient facility operations while adhering to all safety, quality, and housekeeping standards.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES
• Operate forklift and material-handling equipment to move, stack, and retrieve goods and supplies.
• Load and unload materials from trucks, trailers, and containers.
• Organize, sort, and store tools, equipment, and materials in designated areas.
• Maintain yard cleanliness, including sweeping, debris removal, and seasonal tasks such as snow clearing.
• Assist operators and mechanics with equipment preparation and minor servicing.
• Conduct routine inspections and promptly report unsafe conditions, damaged materials, or equipment concerns.
• Support shipping and receiving activities by coordinating with drivers and delivery personnel.
• Palletize, package, and prepare orders for shipment.
• Maintain accurate inventory documentation and support general production-area organization.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
Education Required:
• High School Diploma or equivalency required
• Forklift Certification required
Work Experience Required:
• 1-2 years of experience in a yard, warehouse, construction, or industrial environment
• Experience operating forklifts or basic machinery
Skills & Knowledge Required:
• Ability to lift, carry, and move materials up to 50 lbs. regularly
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to perform simple equipment checks
• Familiarity with safe lifting techniques, load securement, and material-handling practices
• Ability to read and follow work orders, pick lists, or basic written instructions
• Strong commitment to safety and adherence to PPE and operational protocols
• Situational awareness and the ability to identify hazards in an active yard environment
• Effective time-management, reliability, and clear communication skills
• Ability to work outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions
• Ability to work varied schedule

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