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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Kloeckner Metals Corporation

Entry Level Welder

Paton, IA

$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 ...

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 ...

Crownholdings

Bagger/ Palletizer Operator

Dubuque, IA · On-site

The Palletizer, Bagger, Entry Level Equipment Operator roles serve a key function in the operation and on-going maintenance of the high-speed manufacturing equipment that produces both metal cans and ...

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 ...

Crownholdings

Bagger Operator- 2nd Shift

Dubuque, IA

$15.75 - $19/hr

The Palletizer, Bagger, Entry Level Equipment Operator roles serve a key function in the operation and on-going maintenance of the high-speed manufacturing equipment that produces both metal cans and ...

Arete Technologies, Inc.

Batch Operator

Des Moines, IA

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

IA - Technical Operator Location: Des Moines, IA Short Description: Must be willing to work 3rd ... an entry level capacity with minimal supervision. -Alert Program Manager of any problem(s ...

NCW

Grinder/ Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Eldridge, IA

$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 ...

Crown Holdings, Inc.

Bagger Operator- 2nd Shift

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

The Palletizer, Bagger, Entry Level Equipment Operator roles serve a key function in the operation and on-going maintenance of the high-speed manufacturing equipment that produces both metal cans and ...

NCW

Grinder/ Machine Operator 1st Shift

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 ...

Tuson Manufacturing Company

Be Seen First

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 ...

Adecco

Packaging Operator

Clinton, IA · On-site

$17/hr

Adecco is currently seeking motivated individuals for the role of Packaging Operator at a leading ... This immediate-opportunity position offers a hands-on entry-level role within a dynamic warehouse ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Ottumwa, IA

$17 - $17.50/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 JobsOperator 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 Jul 21, 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.

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% 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.
Night-Shift Mill Operator

Night-Shift Mill Operator

Gold-Eagle Cooperative

Eagle Grove, IA • On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Gold-Eagle Cooperative rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 58 rated farming

Job description

Would you like to work in a dynamic, hands-on environment where you can learn new things and improve your skills? If so, a job as a full-time Night-Shift Mill Operator could be right for you! Gold-Eagle Cooperative is hiring a hard-working and punctual person for our Eagle Grove, IA team.

With a competitive wage of $22.00 - $26.00/hour, based on experience and qualifications, and a $1,500 sign-on bonus, this is an excellent entry-level opportunity! We also provide these amazing benefits after a 30-day probation period:

  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Short- and long-term disability
  • $500 clothing allowance
  • Medical/child care flexible spending
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Pension plan strictly funded by employer
  • Paid time off (available after 30 days)
  • Paid holidays
  • CDL-paid courses and training for non-driving positions

Apply today to join a team that values safety, integrity, and professional excellence!


WHAT WE DO

Gold-Eagle Cooperative is a tight-knit organization rooted in the vibrant agriculture community of north-central Iowa. For over a century, we've grown alongside our members, embracing change while staying true to our cooperative values. Our facilities are hubs of innovation, equipped with cutting-edge technology to support farmers every step of the way.

From the fields to the office, we celebrate collaboration, flexibility, and a strong sense of belonging. Just ask our employees-they'll tell you about our recent survey, where we scored an impressive 85% in satisfaction and a whopping 95% in culture and benefits. Join our supportive community where your work makes a real difference.


YOUR SCHEDULE

Our Night-Shift Mill Operator typically works from 5:00 pm - 4:00 am, Monday - Friday.


IS THIS JOB RIGHT FOR YOU?

Here's what we're looking for from a Night-Shift Mill Operator:

  • Valid driver's license with a good driving record
  • Commitment to our zero-injury goal and ability to follow company safety procedures
  • Ability to perform physical tasks such as kneeling, climbing ladders, lifting up to 55 pounds, and working in confined spaces
  • Willingness to work overtime and on weekends during the busy season as needed

Experience in a maintenance-related role would be preferred. A high school degree or equivalent would also be a plus.

In this entry-level position, you support our feed mill's nightly operations. Always punctual and professional, you assist operations and maintenance personnel with a wide variety of tasks. This includes operating a computer-controlled system, performing general housekeeping, and loading and unloading trucks. You work independently and with a team, doing whatever needs to be done to ensure a successful shift!


APPLY TODAY!

If you think you're the right fit for this job, then applying is simple. You can complete our initial application process in about three minutes. Good luck!


Job Posted by ApplicantPro

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