ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Assistant Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

ForceSource

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.

ForceSource

Equipment Operator

Carlisle, IA

$18.50 - $25.25/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.

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 ...

Omega Morgan

Crane Operator (Traveling)

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$44/hr

As a Floating Crane Operator, you will travel to various different locations to assist with crane and forklift operations, to provide coverage when other operators are away from the site. Locations ...

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 ...

QPS

Slurry Operator

Lawler, IA · On-site

$27/hr

Slurry Operator $27.00 per hour Day, Night 6:00am-6:00pm; 6:00pm-6:00am (2-2-5-5 schedule) Are you ... Please note that QPS Employment Group may use a virtual recruiting assistant to help screen and ...

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 · 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 ...

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

$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 Nutrition Group

MACHINE OPERATOR

Altoona, IA

$16.50 - $19.50/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 ...

Kent Corporation

MACHINE OPERATOR

Altoona, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssistant Operator JobsAssistant Operator Jobs in Iowa

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:
Assistant Operator jobs near you
Press Operator

Press Operator

USA Today Co

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform printing related tasks to support efficient press operations.

  • Operate press and computer to plate (CTP) equipment across assigned shifts.

  • Handle production planning and scheduling including coordination of staffing, materials, and priorities.

Job description

PRESS OPERATOR I
  • Gannett Publishing Services/USA TODAY CO.
  • Des Moines, IA.
  • $22.00 per hour.
  • *$2,250 Sign-on Bonus.

The Press Operator I is assigned to perform printing related tasks to support efficient press operations as needed to achieve and maintain on-time production, product quality standards, low waste, and operational safety.  
Responsible for press and computer to plate (CTP) operation across assigned shifts. This role is accountable for production planning and scheduling including coordination of staffing, materials and priorities.
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 coverage options.
  • HAS/FSA options.
  • Life & pet insurance.
  • Wellness and fitness programs.
  • 401k.
  • Generous time off, including paid holidays.