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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Clysar LLC

Operator-Entry Level-Wrap and Pack

Clinton, IA

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

Learn how to assist other operators in cutting cores. What Will Your Work Schedule Be? * Full-Time, rotating shifts and weekends Requirements What are the Job Requirements? * Must be at least 18 ...

SRX Home Care, LLC

Entry Level In-Home Healthcare

Waverly, IA · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

SRX Home Care, LLC, operating under the Happier At Home brand, is seeking compassionate and motivated individuals for the position of Entry Level In-Home Healthcare Provider. This role is designed ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$19.30/hr

Here at Scotts Miracle-Gro there is no such thing as a typical day. Our culture is constantly energized by new and exciting growth opportunities and at a rapid pace. Below are details on an open job.

Kloeckner Metals Corporation

Entry Level Welder

Paton, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Forklift and Crane operation will be required, prior experience is a plus, but not required Minimum Requirements * Entry-Level High-Volume Welding Operator * Candidate must adhere to all safety ...

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All JobsEntry Level Operator JobsEntry Level Operator Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Iowa is $16.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Entry Level Operators and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Operators often face challenges such as mastering complex machinery, adapting to shift work, and maintaining consistent productivity in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions, and seek guidance from experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and being proactive about safety procedures can also help new operators quickly become effective and confident in their roles.

How to become an operator with no experience?

To become an entry-level operator with no experience, focus on gaining relevant skills through vocational training or technical programs, and consider obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training. Many employers offer on-the-job training, so demonstrating a strong work ethic and willingness to learn can help you start in this role.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Entry level operator roles typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized or highly skilled positions like certain freelance consultants, high-level traders, or contractors in industries such as oil and gas. Most entry level jobs offer hourly wages or salaries significantly below this amount, and earning $2000 daily generally requires extensive experience, certifications, or working in high-demand fields with premium pay rates.

What is an entry-level operator?

An entry-level operator is a worker who performs basic operational tasks in industries such as manufacturing, utilities, or transportation. They typically require minimal prior experience, may need a high school diploma or equivalent, and often receive on-the-job training to operate machinery or equipment safely and efficiently.

What are entry level operators?

Entry level operators are employees who typically work in manufacturing, production, or industrial settings and are responsible for running machinery, monitoring equipment, and ensuring products meet quality standards. They are usually new to the field and receive on-the-job training to learn how to operate specific machines or processes. Their duties may include starting and stopping equipment, doing basic maintenance, reporting malfunctions, and keeping work areas clean and safe. Entry level operators play a key role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

An entry-level operator role typically does not pay $10,000 a month without specialized skills or certifications. High-paying jobs in fields like skilled trades, sales, or certain technical roles may reach that level, but they often require experience, training, or licensing rather than a formal degree. Most positions offering such salaries involve significant responsibility or technical expertise.

What is the difference between Entry Level Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectEntry Level OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing lines, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles across manufacturing and industrial sectorsOperational roles in manufacturing, processing, and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Operator and a Machine Operator lies in their experience and specialization. Entry Level Operators typically have basic training and perform general operational tasks, while Machine Operators often have specific technical skills and certifications to handle particular machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and share similar work settings, but Machine Operators usually require more technical expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn safety and operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial machinery, control systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are often required or highly valued. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations in manufacturing or industrial environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Operator jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Operator job openings:
Entry Level Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,120 per year, or $16.4 per hour.
Entry Level Equipment Operator- 2nd shift

Entry Level Equipment Operator- 2nd shift

Advanced Heat Treat

Waterloo, IA

$15 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Everyone knows what ion nitriding, gas nitriding, carbonitriding, and induction hardening are... right? Nope... nope they sure don't! THAT'S OK! Join our team... we would love to teach you!!!

AHT has been in the Industry for 40+ years! Our team has touched products that make the world stronger and safer. Our processes improve upon parts manufactured by other industries, including aerospace, defense, firearms, automotive, construction, agriculture, energy and medical... just to name a few.

Are you familiar with the jaws of life, how about airplane landing gear, or perhaps the Mars Rover? Our employees processed parts that went to MARS!

As part of our team, you will learn about metals, effects of our process on metal, and why quality is so important. You will become an expert in an industry little known, but truly essential! Best of all, we will train you!

Do you like waking up without an alarm? Do you like to run errands or schedule appointments in the mornings? Are you looking to save on daycare costs? Then this is the job for YOU!

We currently have a regular, full-time position open for 2ND SHIFT Equipment Operator working at one of two Waterloo, IA facilities!

Hours and pay: Monday through Friday 3-11 pm. Shift differential paid on top of competitive wage!

What does a Equipment Operator do exactly? Great question! You will provide setup, parts processing, and inspection for processes. You will also provide backup support to technicians using process instructions, work orders and prints. You will degrease, clean and unload customer parts and perform routine shop duties.

Job requirements:

  • minimum of five years equipment operation experience and/or two year industrial tech degree
  • Ability to operate fork truck and overhead crane
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Equipment operating/industrial experience preferred

Willing to hire the right candidate as Heat Treat Support and train into Heat Treat Equipment Operator if the above requirements are not met.

Why join the AHT Family? We thought you'd never ask! On top of invaluable knowledge and ground up training, our culture and benefits are pretty awesome!

  • Pay: competitive pay based on experience and initiative. Your effort and desire determine your success, advancement, and profitability.
  • Benefits: Telehealth, Employee Assistance Program, medical, dental, 401k match and MORE.
  • Quality of Life Benefits: Lucrative PTO structure and paid holidays. After all, making a life is just as important as making a living.
  • Loyalty and job security: A committed and productive employee can look forward to a career with us. 53% of employees have been with AHT for 10+ years!
  • Culture: We like to earn a living, but we try to have a little fun in the process... check out our Facebook page to see more @AdvHeatTreat

AHT is an Equal Opportunity Provider/ Affirmative Action

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