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Communication Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Pella Corporation

Communication Associate

Pella, IA · On-site

LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and ... Must be able to communicate intelligently and accurately with consumers on technical issues. Will ...

Pella Corporation

Communication Associate

Pella, IA · On-site

This position requires excellent interpersonal, written communication skills including good ... LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and ...

Pella Corporation

Communication Associate

Pella, IA

LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and ... Must be able to communicate intelligently and accurately with consumers on technical issues. Will ...

Plymouth Energy

Operator

Merrill, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Production Operator - Ethanol Plant Operations Merrill, Iowa Join a Team Where Your Work Actually ... Ability to communicate clearly by radio and in person * High school diploma or equivalent * Valid ...

Louis Dreyfus Company

Operator

Grand Junction, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Ensures orderly shift change by communicating issues and/or ongoing tasks with incoming operators ... Effective communication skills * Ability to give direction as needed with respect to machine ...

Louis Dreyfus Company

Operator

Grand Junction, IA

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Ensures orderly shift change by communicating issues and/or ongoing tasks with incoming operators ... Effective communication skills * Ability to give direction as needed with respect to machine ...

Louis Dreyfus Company

Operator

Grand Junction, IA

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Ensures orderly shift change by communicating issues and/or ongoing tasks with incoming operators ... Effective communication skills * Ability to give direction as needed with respect to machine ...

CF Industries Holdings, Inc.

Operator-US

Spencer, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Good communication skills * HAZMAT certified (post-employment requirement) * Ability and initiative ... Ammonia terminal operators are required to function as emergency responders in the event of a ...

CF Industries

Operator-US

Spencer, IA

$16.75 - $22/hr

Good communication skills * HAZMAT certified (post-employment requirement) * Ability and initiative ... Ammonia terminal operators are required to function as emergency responders in the event of a ...

CF Industries

Operator-US

Spencer, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Good communication skills * HAZMAT certified (post-employment requirement) * Ability and initiative ... Ammonia terminal operators are required to function as emergency responders in the event of a ...

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All JobsCommunication Operator JobsCommunication Operator Jobs in Iowa

Communication Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$21

$41

How much do communication operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for communication operator in Iowa is $21.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $24.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a communication operator?

Communication Operators are professionals responsible for managing and directing communications within an organization or between organizations and the public. They operate communication equipment such as radios, telephones, and computers to dispatch information, relay messages, and coordinate responses, especially in emergency situations. Communication Operators play a critical role in ensuring that information is accurately and efficiently transmitted to the right parties. Their work is essential in fields like emergency services, security, transportation, and large organizations where constant communication is necessary.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a communication operator, and why are they important?

To excel as a Communication Operator, you need strong verbal and written communication skills, quick decision-making abilities, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with radio dispatch systems, computer-aided dispatch (CAD) software, and emergency response protocols is typically required. Exceptional multitasking, stress management, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate information relay, effective coordination, and timely response in high-pressure situations.

What are some common challenges communication operators face during high-pressure situations, and how can they effectively manage them?

Communication Operators often encounter high-pressure scenarios, such as emergency calls or critical incidents, where quick thinking and calm decision-making are essential. Managing multiple calls, relaying accurate information, and prioritizing tasks can be challenging when the workload spikes. To handle these situations effectively, operators rely on strong organizational skills, thorough training in protocols, and support from their team. Regular debriefings and ongoing professional development also help operators improve their stress management and communication abilities.

What is the difference between Communication Operator vs Radio Dispatcher?

AspectCommunication OperatorRadio Dispatcher
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications varySimilar requirements; often includes specialized radio operation training
Work EnvironmentCall centers, customer service, emergency communication centersEmergency services, transportation hubs, public safety agencies
Employer & IndustryTelecom companies, emergency services, government agenciesPolice, fire departments, transit authorities
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for communication roles in customer service or emergency responseCompared for roles involving dispatching and radio communication in public safety

Communication Operators and Radio Dispatchers share similar skills in radio communication and customer service, but they differ mainly in their work environments and specific responsibilities. Communication Operators often handle general communication tasks in call centers or customer service, while Radio Dispatchers focus on coordinating emergency or transportation services via radio. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in their respective industries.

What are popular job titles related to Communication Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Communication Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Communication Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Communication Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Communication Operator jobs in IA?

For Communication Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Communication Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Communication Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,537 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Underground Power and Communications Equipment Operator - Michels Underground Cable, Inc

Spirit Lake, IA

Michels
See more jobs at Michelsexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Underground Power and Communications Equipment Operator - Michels Underground Cable, Inc

Marshalltown, IA; Spirit Lake, IA

Installing underground cables for power transmission, power distribution, renewable energy and communication networks is a necessary step in hardening the electrical grid, delivering reliable communication networks, and integrating renewable energy into our existing systems. Michels Underground Cable, Inc. is one of the most trusted underground line and duct bank contractors in the United States. We do it all – from directly burying or installing protective casing for solid and stranded conductors and copper, fiber optic and coaxial cable. Our work improves lives. Find out how a career at Michels Underground Cable, Inc. can change yours.

An Equipment Operator performs any combination of the following duties on telecommunications deenergized buried power construction projects; maneuvering, navigating, and operating equipment. Operators use heavy equipment such as mini-excavators, backhoes, front-end loaders, and dozers to move materials and equipment throughout the job site.

Why Michels Underground Cable, Inc.

  • Customers trust us to build cables that will be out of sight, but in high demand
  • Our steady, strategic growth revolves around a commitment to quality
  • We are family owned and operated
  • We invest an average of $5,000 per employee on training each year
  • We perform challenging, meaningful work that improves the world
  • We believe everyone is responsible for promoting safety, regardless of job title
  • We are a part of the Michels family of companies – one of North America's largest, most diversified energy and infrastructure contractors
  • We offer a comprehensive benefits program, including Health, Dental, Life, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Account, Short Term and Long Term Disability Insurance, 401(k) plan, Legal Plan, and Identity Theft and Monitoring Plan. Depending on your positions and location you may participate in a different benefit plan.

Why You?

  • You like to surround yourself with dedicated, value-driven people
  • You relish new challenges and evolving technology
  • You cringe when you hear: "Because that's the way we've always done it."
  • You like to know your efforts are noticed and appreciated
  • You want to make your own decisions, but know support is always available
  • You want to work to make a difference in people's lives

What It Takes?

  • 6 months to 1 year of operator experience with mini-excavators, backhoes, front-end loaders, or dozers.
  • Willingness to work under a union collective bargaining agreement
  • A valid driver license for the type(s) of vehicles you may be driving and an acceptable driving record
  • A Commercial Driver's License with tanker endorsement or the ability to obtain
  • Travel Required

AA/EOE/M/W/Vet/Disability

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