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Associate Operator Jobs in Muscatine, IA (NOW HIRING)

DES Employment Group

Forklift Operator

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$20.50/hr

Ability to work in dusty, humid environments with exposure to soy and wheat allergens Ideal Experience Forklift Operator Warehouse Associate Material Handler Shipping and Receiving Inventory Control ...

Airgas

Lead plant Operator

Muscatine, IA · On-site

R10098507 Lead plant Operator (Open) Location: Muscatine, IA (ADI) - Filling industrial - Dry-ice ... Associates who are members of collective bargaining units should review their bargaining agreement ...

SSAB

Production Operator - Shipping

Montpelier, IA · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

About the Position The Production Operator is responsible for supporting the safe and efficient ... Associates degree or certificate in mechanical or electrical field Position Type - Work Hours ...

SSAB

Production Operator - Melting

Montpelier, IA · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

About the Position The Production Operator is responsible for supporting the safe and efficient ... Associates degree or certificate in mechanical or electrical field Position Type - Work Hours ...

SSAB

Production Operator - Finishing

Montpelier, IA · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

About the Position The Production Operator is responsible for supporting the safe and efficient ... Associates degree or certificate in mechanical or electrical field Position Type - Work Hours ...

SSAB

Maintenance Operator - Baghouse

Montpelier, IA · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

About the Position The Maintenance Operator is responsible for supporting the safe and efficient ... Associates degree or certificate in mechanical or electrical field Position Type - Work Hours ...

SSAB

Production Operator - Rolling Mill

Montpelier, IA · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

About the Position The Production Operator is responsible for supporting the safe and efficient ... Associates degree or certificate in mechanical or electrical field Position Type - Work Hours ...

Airliquidehr

Plant Operator (Day)

Muscatine, IA · On-site

R10098873 Plant Operator (Day) (Open) Location: Muscatine, IA (ADI) - Filling industrial - Dry-ice ... Associates who are members of collective bargaining units should review their bargaining agreement ...

Airgas

Plant Operator (Day)

Muscatine, IA · On-site

R10098873 Plant Operator (Day) (Open) Location: Muscatine, IA (ADI) - Filling industrial - Dry-ice ... Associates who are members of collective bargaining units should review their bargaining agreement ...

SSAB

Production Operator - Lab

Montpelier, IA · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Learn and follow the standard operating procedures and safe operating practices (JSA/SOP) * Operate ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree with a science major, such as chemistry Work Environment and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Operator JobsAssociate Operator Jobs in Muscatine, 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Muscatine, IA?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Muscatine, IA are:

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

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

Associate Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Muscatine, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Forklift Operator

DES Employment Group

Muscatine, IA • On-site

$20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Forklift Operator (3rd Shift)


Location: Muscatine, IA


Pay

$20.50 per hour

Weekly Pay

Overtime Available


Schedule (Training on 1st shift 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM)

Monday-Friday

9:00 PM - 5:30 AM


Employment Type

Full-Time


Why Apply?

Weekly Pay

Supplemental Health Insurance Available

Advancement Opportunities


Position Overview

We are hiring an experienced Forklift Operator for a food-grade warehouse in Muscatine, IA. This role supports daily warehouse operations by safely moving products and keeping logistics running smoothly on the 3rd shift.


You will load and unload trailers, store inventory efficiently, and follow strict food safety guidelines. If you have solid forklift experience and are looking for a steady schedule with long-term growth, this is a great fit for you.


Key Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts and specialized equipment safely to move merchandise throughout the facility.

• Pick, prepare, and load outgoing orders according to daily shipping schedules.

• Unload incoming trailers, verify product counts, and record movements accurately.

• Store merchandise in proper warehouse locations to maximize storage space.

• Perform daily safety checks on equipment before starting your shift.

• Follow food safety standards (FSMA) and sanitation rules to maintain a clean workspace.

• Communicate with supervisors to ensure smooth shift transitions.


Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of warehouse forklift experience listed on your resume

• High School Diploma or GED

• Ability to pass a 7-year background check

• Ability to pass a drug screen, physical, and Stress Test (CRT)

• Ability to lift 50-60 pounds occasionally

• Ability to mount and dismount a forklift regularly throughout the shift

• Ability to work in temperatures ranging from 40°F to 90°F

• Ability to work in dusty, humid environments with exposure to soy and wheat allergens


Ideal Experience

Forklift Operator

Warehouse Associate

Material Handler

Shipping and Receiving

Inventory Control

Logistics

Food Warehouse


Benefits

Weekly Pay

PTO accrual begins on Day 1 (Eligible for use after 60 days of employment)

Supplemental health insurance options available

Opportunities for advancement based on attendance and performance


Apply today for immediate consideration.


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