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Associate Operator Jobs in Columbia, IA (NOW HIRING)

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Osceola, IA · On-site

$22.50/hr

Forklift Operator/Order Selector - to include cross-trained skills across multiple departments ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

DPDHL

Forklift Operator

Osceola, IA · On-site

$22.50/hr

Forklift Operator/Order Selector - to include cross-trained skills across multiple departments ... associates, including paid holidays and vacation - 401(k) with generous company match - Tuition ...

Neiman Foods Inc

HARDWARE SALES ASSOCIATE

Osceola, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

Sales Associate Get paid daily! We've partnered with DailyPay to offer employees more control over ... Read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and ...

Neiman Foods Inc

HARDWARE SALES ASSOCIATE

Osceola, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

Sales Associate Get paid daily! We've partnered with DailyPay to offer employees more control over ... Read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and ...

County Market

Hardware Sales Associate

Osceola, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $16.25/hr

SUMMARY The ACE Hardware Sales Associate is responsible for processing and stocking of product ... Read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and ...

Niemann Foods

Hardware Sales Associate

Osceola, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $16.25/hr

SUMMARY The ACE Hardware Sales Associate is responsible for processing and stocking of product ... Read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and ...

Niemann Foods

Hardware Sales Associate

Osceola, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $16.25/hr

SUMMARY The ACE Hardware Sales Associate is responsible for processing and stocking of product ... Read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and ...

County Market

Hardware Sales Associate

Osceola, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $16.25/hr

SUMMARY The ACE Hardware Sales Associate is responsible for processing and stocking of product ... Read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and ...

Dollar General

SALES ASSOCIATE in ALBIA, IA S02228

Albia, IA · On-site

$13.75 - $16/hr

The duties of the Sales Associate include assisting customers in locating and purchasing merchandise, operating the cash register, stocking merchandise, recovering merchandise, cleaning the store ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Operator JobsAssociate Operator Jobs in Columbia, IA

Associate Operator information

What is an associate operator?

Associate Operators are entry-level professionals responsible for supporting the daily operations of a facility, such as a manufacturing plant, warehouse, or control room. Their duties typically include monitoring equipment, performing basic maintenance, following safety protocols, and ensuring production processes run smoothly. They often work under the supervision of more experienced operators and may assist with troubleshooting issues or reporting problems. This role is a key starting point for those looking to build a career in operations or production environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate operator?

To thrive as an Associate Operator, you need a solid understanding of production processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industry-specific machinery, safety protocols, and basic computer systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities help individuals excel in monitoring operations and addressing issues quickly. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production, ensuring safety, and contributing to overall operational success.

What are some typical challenges an associate operator might encounter during daily operations?

As an Associate Operator, common challenges include quickly troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, adapting to unexpected changes in production schedules, and maintaining high attention to detail during repetitive tasks. You may also need to coordinate with maintenance and quality assurance teams to ensure safety and compliance standards are met. Effective communication and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for handling these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Associate Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectAssociate OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production linesFactories, industrial settings, production floors
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly, and production industriesWidely used in manufacturing, processing, and industrial sectors
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in operations, monitor equipment, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, ensure proper functioning, troubleshoot issues

Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, with Associate Operators typically supporting machine operations and performing basic tasks, while Machine Operators focus on directly handling machinery and ensuring smooth production processes.

Which associate operator job pays the most?

The highest-paying associate operator roles are often found in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and power generation, where specialized skills and certifications like OSHA training or technical licenses are required. These positions typically offer higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and company size.

What cities near Columbia, IA are hiring for Associate Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbia, IA with the most Associate Operator job openings:

Associate Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Columbia, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Forklift Operator

DPDHL

Osceola, IA • On-site

$22.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

DHL Supply Chain is Hiring! At DHL, you will play a part in one of the world’s most essential industries. There has never been a better time to join DHL Supply Chain. In a global business like ours, the opportunities are endless. So, join us. Work with us. Grow with us.

The core responsibilities of this role include: Forklift Operator/Order Selector - to include cross-trained skills across multiple departments
- inbound, outbound, auto store, domestic and international shipping, receiving.

-Preparing product for safe shipment and verifying accuracy utilizing computer, shipping label and/or packing list.

Position: Forklift Operator/Order Selector
Shift: 2nd/3rd Shift from 7:00pm-7:00am on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Pay: $22.50 per hour + $2.00 Freezer Premium + $2.00 Shift Differential

In addition to the general job description below, the ideal candidate will also possess the following skills and/or experience:

A minimum of 6 months experience in the following:

-Preparing product for safe shipment and verifying accuracy utilizing computer, shipping label and/or packing list.

-Experience with a WMS (Warehouse Management System) is highly desired. Examples of WMS systems are JDA, Red Prairie, Blue Yonder, Manhattan, SAP.

-Able to stand for extended periods of time. The position will require standing for up to 90% of the shift.

-Must be able to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds throughout the shift.


Be part of the world’s largest logistics company! DHL Supply Chain has been certified as a Great Place to Work® in the US and Canada! Our excellent benefits packages includes:
- Affordable medical, dental, and vision coverage available beginning on your 30th day
- PTO program for all associates, including paid holidays and vacation
- 401(k) with generous company match
- Tuition reimbursement program
- Excellent training and career advancement opportunities

Grow your skills. Shape your world.

Role Purpose:

What will you do in this role? Our Forklift Operators are responsible for moving stock from one area to another within our warehouse environment. You’ll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such as stand-up, sit-down, or clamp forklifts and electric pallet jacks.Our environment is team oriented, fast paced and safety focused. We move products that people need and want. At DHL, YOU will be an essential part of everyday life.

Key Accountabilities:

  • Load, unload, move, stock, and stage products and materials using various types of forklifts or other power equipment 80% of specified shift.
  • Pull and prepare product for shipment ensuring the exact number and types of product is loaded.
  • Keep appropriate records and reports for inventory accuracy.
  • Comply with all OSHA and MSDS standards.
  • Verify load accuracy; check the load count, stability, and product damage, report variances as necessary.
  • Change equipment battery or LP tank and monitor power source as necessary.
  • Maintain the facility’s equipment and materials in a neat, clean, and orderly fashion.
  • Assist in physical inventories.
  • Complete daily inspection of equipment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

  • Forklift operator certificate or satisfactory completion of a forklift-training program within the first 30 days of employment
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent, preferred
  • Six months warehouse experience, preferred
  • Six months forklift operation experience

Our Organization is an equal opportunity employer.

#LI-DNI

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