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Cheese Factory Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Packaging Lead 1st Shift

Cedar Rapids, IA

$18.25 - $25.25/hr

Products include Frozen Soups and Macaroni & Cheese Company History: Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids ... factory accountability list in order to achieve targeted RCR. * As necessary, other duties and/or ...

Cheese Factory information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$14

$18

How much do cheese factory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cheese factory in Iowa is $14.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $14.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cheese factory job?

A Cheese Factory job involves working in the production, packaging, and quality control of cheese products. Employees may be responsible for operating machinery, monitoring ingredients, cutting and packaging cheese, and ensuring sanitation standards are met. Some roles require physical labor, such as lifting heavy blocks of cheese or working in cold storage areas. The job can be fast-paced and requires attention to detail to maintain product quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the cheese factory position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an employee in a cheese factory, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and an understanding of food safety and manufacturing processes, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial cheese-making equipment, safety protocols like HACCP, and basic machinery operation is typically required. Teamwork, reliability, and strong communication skills help individuals excel in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. These abilities ensure efficient production, high-quality products, and a safe workplace.

What types of tasks can I expect to perform on a daily basis in a cheese factory job?

In a cheese factory position, your daily tasks may include monitoring and operating machinery, checking product quality, packaging cheese, and ensuring that hygiene standards are maintained throughout the production process. You might also be responsible for cleaning equipment, labeling products, and recording production data. Team members often rotate between roles to keep the workflow smooth and efficient, making adaptability an asset. The work is generally hands-on and can involve standing for extended periods, but it’s a great way to develop valuable skills in the food manufacturing industry.

Is working in a cheese factory hard?

Working in a cheese factory can be physically demanding, involving tasks such as lifting, standing for long periods, and operating machinery. It often requires attention to safety protocols and sometimes involves working in cold environments. The difficulty level varies depending on the specific role and work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Cheese Factory jobs in Iowa?

For Cheese Factory jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cheese Factory job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,300 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Maintenance Technician 2

Kraft Heinz

Cedar Rapids, IA

$29.28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 hours ago


Kraft Heinz rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 438 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job DescriptionMaintenance Technician - NightsLocation:

Kraft Heinz - Cedar Rapids

4601 C Street SW

Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404

Plant Overview:

3-Shift Operation

Non- Union Facility with approximately 200 hourly staff members which are a mix of temporary

and full-time associates.

100% Food Service, 4 bag soup lines, 1 tub line, 18 Kettles, 5 Filling lines, and 4 packaging lines.

Products include Frozen Soups and Macaroni & Cheese

Company History: Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids started as Ashby Soups and was originated in the mid 1980's by Jamie and Shannon Ashby, along with their mother, using family held recipes for many kinds of soups. In the 1990s' the name was changed to Quality Chef Foods. Heinz acquired Quality Chef foods in the mid 2000's. In 2015 Kraft and Heinz merged to become Kraft Heinz as we know it today.

Community Overview:

The Cedar Rapids and Iowa City area is known as the cultural corridor. There is always something to do, a site to visit or a show to see! Also, from Cedar Rapids there is an easy commute, great school communities, low crime rates and bike friendly. Cost of living ratio great. Cedar Rapids is a vibrant city, encompassing unique attractions, exciting events, specialty shopping, a dynamic art scene, and a large variety of restaurant and nightlife options. You'll find that Cedar Rapids offers one of the best places to live, work and play in the Midwest.

More information on Cedar Rapids, IA can be found at: http://www.cedar-rapids.org/

Job Overview:

Are you ready to join a team that produces quality products that are amongst over 50 household brands in the U.S.? This is a place for you to create your career and make a difference! Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids is looking for candidates that want to make great soups!

Will participate in and contribute to all activities relating to the maintenance of equipment, building, and grounds. Result of successful execution of the duties of this position will help ensure the facilities and equipment are in top performing condition at all timesResponsibilities & Duties:
  • Maintains and services production equipment to keep in good working order

  • Technical knowledge of how to efficiently operate, service, and repair all production equipment.

  • Proficient at troubleshooting and adjusting the production operating equipment

  • Skilled in the mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic aspects on equipment.

  • Maintains a safe working environment to comply with safety and Food Safety standards consistently throughout the day.

  • Participate in the QRMP yearly audit and assist in the development of procedures and corrective actions.

  • Accountable for the QRMP (Quality Risk Management Process) system and operational standards as outlined in the factory accountability list to achieve targeted RCR.

  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

- Education: High school/ GED diploma required. Associates or Bachelor's Degree preferred.

Two to three years' experience of Industrial Maintenance experience in a manufacturing

environment is strongly preferred.

Must be able to work in a safe manner.

Must ensure that quality products are being produced.

Must be able to communicate effectively.

Responsible for following all Food Safety Policies and Safety Procedures.

Basic electrical skills such as but not limited to operation of a multi-meter for purposes of

troubleshooting simple electrical circuits

Basic Hydraulic system knowledge

Basic Pneumatic system knowledge

Basic Plumbing system knowledge

General PSM Knowledge preferred

Knowledge of and experience with power and hand tools

Basic welding preferred

- Other duties as assigned

Work Schedule:NightsBenefits & Compensation Overview:

Medical.

Dental.

Vision.

Additional perks: Pet Insurance, (EAP) Employee Assistance Program, etc.

(HRA) Health Reimbursement Account or (HSA) Health Savings Account.

Pay Rate: $29.28

Start earning PTO at hire, generous

Non-Union (FOIP) Field Operations Incentive Plan- BONUS PLAN

Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and savingfor the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coveragefor benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire aphysical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.

You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:

  • Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments

  • Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Recognition, Training

  • Emotional - Employee Assistance Program, Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs

  • Financial - 401k,Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)

Quality Chef - Cedar Rapids

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com.


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