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Dock Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

As a Dock Worker, you will receive, store, and accurately distribute material, equipment, and ... Stretch wrap products * Assist in recording amounts of materials or items received or distributed

Dock Attendant

Graettinger, IA · On-site

$17.33/hr

Sign for incoming shipments and notify the appropriate department or employee when materials have arrived. * Assist with transporting and distributing received parts, supplies, and materials to the ...

Dock Attendant

Graettinger, IA · On-site

$17.33/hr

Sign for incoming shipments and notify the appropriate department or employee when materials have arrived. * Assist with transporting and distributing received parts, supplies, and materials to the ...

Freight Handler

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

... across dock area to/from trailers for loading to trailers. Essential Functions * Perform freight ... Verify and complete required documentation and reports * Assist customers with freight and freight ...

Warehouse Operator

Clive, IA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Dock & Warehouse Operations * Manage dock loading/unloading and staging areas * Oversee forklift ... Identify safety risks and support compliance efforts * Assist with site security, especially during ...

Warehouse Operator

Clive, IA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Dock & Warehouse Operations * Manage dock loading/unloading and staging areas * Oversee forklift ... Identify safety risks and support compliance efforts * Assist with site security, especially during ...

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Dock Assistant information

What is a dock assistant?

Dock Assistants are workers responsible for assisting with the loading, unloading, and organization of goods at docks, warehouses, or shipping facilities. They help move cargo, operate equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks, and ensure shipments are handled safely and efficiently. Dock Assistants may also check incoming and outgoing shipments for accuracy, help maintain inventory records, and follow safety regulations. Their role is essential for keeping supply chains running smoothly.

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

To thrive as a Dock Assistant, you need basic knowledge of warehouse operations, physical stamina, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pallet jacks, forklifts, and inventory management systems is typically required, and forklift certification can be an asset. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient loading and unloading operations, accurate inventory handling, and smooth collaboration with other warehouse staff.

What are some common challenges faced by dock assistants, and how can they be managed effectively?

Dock Assistants often face challenges such as managing heavy or awkward loads, working in fast-paced environments, and handling varying weather conditions. Effective communication with team members and adherence to safety protocols are essential to prevent accidents and ensure efficient operations. Staying organized, using proper lifting techniques, and being adaptable to changing schedules can help Dock Assistants succeed and maintain a safe, productive workflow.

What is the difference between Dock Assistant vs Dock Worker?

AspectDock AssistantDock Worker
CredentialsMay require OSHA safety training, forklift certificationTypically OSHA safety training, physical fitness
Work EnvironmentHarbor, warehouse docks, shipping yardsLoading/unloading ships, trucks, warehouses
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, logistics firms, portsShipping companies, freight carriers, warehouses
Job RoleAssist with cargo handling, equipment operation, safetyUnload/load cargo, operate equipment, manual labor

Dock Assistants and Dock Workers both operate in shipping and logistics environments, often performing cargo handling and safety tasks. Dock Assistants typically focus on assisting with cargo movement and equipment, while Dock Workers are more involved in manual loading and unloading. Both roles require safety training and are essential in port and warehouse operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Dock jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Dock jobs in Iowa are:

What job categories do people searching Dock Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Dock Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Dock Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Dock Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Dock Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Dock Worker

Des Moines, IA

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

As a Dock Worker, you will receive, store, and accurately distribute material, equipment, and products in the facility within the time scheduled and the output parameters needed. This is an agile role that requires you work on multiple projects at once. Our success depends on your ability to deliver in a safe, accurate and timely manner!
Responsibilities of the Dock Worker:
Read production schedule, customer order, work order, shipping order, or requisition to determine items to be moved, gathered, or distributed
  • Convey materials and items from receiving areas to storage or to other designated areas
  • Sort and place materials or items on racks, shelves, or in bins according to predetermined sequence such as size, type, style, color, or product code
  • Sort and store perishable goods in refrigerated rooms
  • Fill requisitions, work orders, or requests for materials, tools, or other stock items and distributes items
  • Assemble customer orders from stock and places orders on pallets or shelves, or conveys orders to shipping department
  • Stretch wrap products
  • Assist in recording amounts of materials or items received or distributed
  • Compile worksheets or tickets from customer orders
  • Maintain clean work environment
  • Follow up on orders assigned by superintendents
  • Operation of all equipment to assist in operations when needed
  • Perform other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications of the Dock Worker:
  • Warehouse experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to effectively present information in one—on—one and small group situations to team members
  • Demonstrated ability to use basic mathematical skills
  • Excellent problem solving abilities
  • Must be able and willing to complete a pre-employment background check and drug screen
Preferred Qualifications of the Warehouse Worker:
  • High school diploma or GED
Work Environment
  • This is a cold storage environment
  • Temperature in warehouse ranges from -20 degrees up to 54 degrees
  • Mid top or high-top Steel toe or Composite toe boots are required
  • Must be capable of multi-tasking and communicating with a variety of people and personalities
  • Noise level in the warehouse varies and, at times, can be loud