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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Private

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Grinder Operator

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$20/hr

Position Summary We are searching for an entry-level Grinder/Machine Operator to join our client's growing metals processing team. This role is ideal for someone looking to start or build a career in ...

AVEKA GROUP INC

Production Operator- All Shifts

Waukon, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Operate machinery and package product - Employee Owned Company - Growth opportunities - good workplace culture! Entry level and experienced operators welcome to apply! We are looking for people who ...

Tuson Manufacturing Company

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CNC Machine Operator, Experienced and Entry level

Story City, IA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

To utilize all resources associated with manufacturing in an environmentally responsible way Entry-Level CNC Machine Operator Requirements Responsible for performing changeovers, control, and ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

When you join our team as an Entry-Level Dental Assistant , you will have the opportunity to give ... May vary by independently owned and operated Aspen Dental locations. ADMI Corp., d/b/a TAG-The ...

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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 Welder

Entry Level Welder

Kloeckner Metals Corporation

Paton, IA • On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Fabricate and weld products according to drawings and production voucher specifications using correct materials and procedures.

  • Inspect welded assemblies to ensure they meet tolerance requirements.

  • Complete quality documentation and production voucher information.

Kloeckner Metals rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Summary

This is an entry-level opportunity for individuals that desire to develop welding skills within a production environment. Success in the role requires a strong focus on maintaining productivity, quality, and safety. This position works within a team, working together to manufacture customer assemblies.

No experience is required. On the job training provided! 

 Job Functions

  • Fabricating and welding products to the drawings and production voucher specifications using the correct materials and to the appropriate welding procedures.
  • Inspect welded assemblies produced to ensure tolerance
  • Complete the appropriate quality documentation and production voucher information
  • Maintaining high quality results
  • Will be trained in; Welding, Grinding, Material Handling, and Packaging

 Skills/Abilities

  • Candidate must always maintain a clean / orderly work area
  • 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 policies and procedures in place at the facility
  • Candidate must complete all training sessions as required

What Kloeckner Metals employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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