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Container Loader Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Line Loader - Nights

Dubuque, IA

$15 - $18.50/hr

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION Operate and monitors loader equipment to properly fill containers with the product. ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES Run loader to properly fill baskets or trays depending ...

Line Loader - Days

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION Operate and monitors loader equipment to properly fill containers with the product. ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES Run loader to properly fill baskets or trays depending ...

Line Loader - Nights

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION Operate and monitors loader equipment to properly fill containers with the product. ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES Run loader to properly fill baskets or trays depending ...

Line Loader - Nights

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION Operate and monitors loader equipment to properly fill containers with the product. ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES Run loader to properly fill baskets or trays depending ...

Line Loader - Nights

Asbury, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION Operate and monitors loader equipment to properly fill containers with the product. ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES Run loader to properly fill baskets or trays depending ...

Line Loader - Days

Asbury, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION Operate and monitors loader equipment to properly fill containers with the product. ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES Run loader to properly fill baskets or trays depending ...

Assemble containers. * Load packages of vacuum sealed meat into boxes * Remove packages (one or two at a time) and inspect labels, product position and overall visual quality, according to order ...

Assemble containers. * Load packages of vacuum sealed meat into boxes * Remove packages (one or two at a time) and inspect labels, product position and overall visual quality, according to order ...

Assemble containers. * Load packages of vacuum sealed meat into boxes * Remove packages (one or two at a time) and inspect labels, product position and overall visual quality, according to order ...

Load and unload trucks safely and efficiently, following all site procedures and safety guidelines. * Read and interpret paperwork to verify that the correct containers and racks are being loaded ...

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Container Loader information

What is a container loader?

Container loaders are workers responsible for efficiently loading and unloading goods into shipping containers, trucks, or freight vehicles. Their main tasks include arranging cargo to maximize space, securing items to prevent damage during transit, and following safety protocols. They often use equipment like forklifts, pallet jacks, or hand trucks and must keep accurate records of loaded items. Container loaders play a vital role in the supply chain by ensuring goods are transported safely and efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Container Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic understanding of warehouse operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pallet jacks, forklifts, and inventory management systems is typically required, with OSHA forklift certification being a common asset. Strong teamwork, time management, and communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced environments. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate loading processes that support overall supply chain effectiveness.

What are some common challenges faced by a container loader, and how can they be addressed?

Container Loaders often encounter challenges such as managing heavy or awkwardly shaped cargo, working efficiently under time constraints, and ensuring items are securely packed to prevent damage during transit. To address these, it's important to follow proper lifting techniques, use appropriate equipment, and adhere to safety protocols. Clear communication with team members and supervisors is also key to coordinating loading activities and resolving issues quickly. Many companies provide on-the-job training to help workers develop these skills and promote a safe, productive environment.

What is the difference between Container Loader vs Forklift Operator?

AspectContainer LoaderForklift Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and safety trainingRequires forklift certification and safety training
Work EnvironmentLoading/unloading containers, warehouse, shipping yardsOperating forklifts in warehouses, distribution centers
Industry UsageShipping, logistics, freight forwardingWarehousing, manufacturing, logistics
Common Search/ComparisonContainer Loader vs Forklift Operator

Container Loaders and Forklift Operators both work in logistics and warehousing environments, often overlapping in tasks like moving goods. However, Container Loaders focus on loading goods into containers, requiring knowledge of cargo handling, while Forklift Operators operate forklifts to move pallets and materials within facilities. Both roles require safety training and certifications, but their specific duties and work settings differ slightly.

Infographic showing various Container Loader job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Line Loader - Nights

Dubuque, IA

Simmons Foods
Meat Processing and Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$15 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Simmons Foods rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
Operate and monitors loader equipment to properly fill containers with the product.

ESSENTIAL POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Run loader to properly fill baskets or trays depending on the line.
Verifies and monitors equipment setup and timing according to SOP.
Loads product correctly according to SOP.
Checks codes per mandated SOP.
Monitors product and trays/baskets for possible issues or defects. Takes appropriate corrective action.
Performs weekly sanitation.

Participates as a member of the Team. Participates in ongoing development, communication and implementation of team concepts, programs and policies; coordinates work to ensure best practices with all team members. Attends appropriate team meetings. As a member of the Team, fosters strong cohesiveness regarding all major issues; e.g., direction, annual plan, budget, policy changes, etc. Accepts responsibility to quickly identify any areas that lack cohesiveness, bringing them to the attention of the team leader and working with the team in a supportive manner to resolve issues and actively look for ways, and reinforces actions needed, to achieve synergy possible within the larger organization.

Simmons Operating systems principles and objectives: Is familiar with Simmons' established operating systems (e.g. quality, security, office environment, company policies); understands the responsibility to maintain familiarity with the systems and this position's role in support of these systems - including a consideration of the impact of individual actions on the systems and the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas.

Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives: This position description is intended to guide the activities of Line Loader and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person to the work of this function nor is it intended that this describe all the work that may be required of the person in this position.

Physical Activities: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential dusty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Steel-toed shoes, ear plugs, hair net.

Travel: none

Technical Experience: N/A

Industry Experience: N/A

Minimum Education: N/A

Preferred Education: Up to one month experience or training.


What Simmons Foods employees say

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About Simmons Foods

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Simmons Foods, headquartered in Siloam Springs, AR, US, is an established player in the global food processing industry. The company was founded in 1949 by Bill Simmons, and over the decades, it has grown to become a world leader in poultry, pet, and animal nutrition industries. Through its official website (simmonsfoods.com), the company has consistently communicated its commitment to quality, reliable partnerships, and innovative solutions. It specializes in the production and distribution of chicken, pet foods, and specialty pet snacks. Their mission is to be at the forefront of innovation in food products and to provide quality and value to customers and consumers.

Industry

Meat processing and manufacturing and animal food manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Siloam Springs, AR, US

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