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Dock Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Goodwill of Central Iowa

Dock Assistant

Johnston, IA · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Goodwill of Central Iowa is looking for Warehouse Dock Assistants to assist with donated goods processing and safe operation of equipment with our values of love, kindness, and respect. Hours amp;

DM Goodwill

Dock Assistant

Johnston, IA · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Goodwill of Central Iowa is looking for Warehouse Dock Assistants to assist with donated goods processing and safe operation of equipment with our values of love, kindness, and respect. Hours ...

Just Staffing

Dock Worker

Des Moines, IA

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

Suntex Marina Investors, LLC

Dockhand

Polk City, IA · On-site

Dockhands assist the Dockmaster and other Dockhands in all duties related to the marina. Doing so ... docks, black water pump out, waste disposal, and general facility sanitation * Carry out routine ...

Suntex Marina Investors, LLC

Lead Dockhand

Pella, IA · On-site

Lead dock hands assist the Dockmaster and direct Dockhands in all duties related to the marina. Doing so while being friendly, positive, and accommodating, they also keep the area clean, safe, and ...

Forward Air

Forklift Operator - Part Time

Carter Lake, IA · On-site

$19.86/hr

Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery. * Assist drivers with loading and unloading activities following dock and safety procedures. * Label, scan, and track freight using handheld ...

HyVee

Overnight Stock Assistant Manager

Grimes, IA · On-site

Overnight Stock Assistant Manager Department: Grocery FLSA : Non-Exempt General Function Sets the ... Orders products from warehouse; pre-orders, orders from grocery to dock, pre-orders for grocery ...

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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:

Dock Assistant jobs near you
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 Assistant

Goodwill of Central Iowa

Johnston, IA • On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Goodwill of Central Iowa is looking for Warehouse Dock Assistants to assist with donated goods processing and safe operation of equipment with our values of love, kindness, and respect.
Hours amp; Schedules:
  • Full-Time (40 hours/week)
  • Shifts are scheduled Monday - Friday: 7:30 am - 4 pm
Pay amp; Benefits:
  • Starting wage of $14.00-15.00/hour depending on relevant experience.
  • Annual merit increase eligibility based on individual job performance.​
  • Eligible for Full-Time benefits on the first of the month following the date of hire including medical, dental, vision insurance, retirement plan, PTO, and more (click here!)
Successful candidates have:
  • Effective communication skills for daily interactions with coworkers and managers
  • Flexibility to work positively on a team within Goodwill of Central Iowa's values of treating others with love, kindness, amp; respect
  • Excellent attention to safety and pallet jack, two-wheel dolly, trash compactor, and baler equipment experience - forklift experience is a plus
Dock Assistants will load and unload donation trucks, open and/or unpack items from containers, sort, inspect, and route for distribution. They perform job duties following safety guidelines in a warehouse environment.
What you'll do here:
  • Sort, inspect, and distribute product per quality standards.
  • Adhere to established processes and safety practices.
  • Operate forklift and other equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Safely and correctly stack storage containers, bales, and other items.
  • Meets daily production goals.
  • Maintain housekeeping of the dock area by keeping the area clean and organized.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
What you'll need:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • High school diploma or its equivalent, or a minimum of four (4) years of any of any combination of military service, high school, or related full-time paid employment.
  • Safely use equipment such as pallet jack, forklift, two-wheel dolly, trash compactor, and baler as directed and authorized.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Effective communication and basic math skills
  • Must be able to pass a criminal background check and a dependent adult and child abuse background check.
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to understand verbal and/or written instruction and communicate effectively.
  • Ability to tolerate variations in work environment temperature.
  • Ability to be stationary or mobile for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to carry, lift, push or pull fifty (50) pounds.
Goodwill of Central Iowa and our affiliates are Equal Opportunity Employers (EOE/M/F/Vet/Disability) and E-Verify Participants.
The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

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