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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Kemps

CIP/Environmental Operator

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$27.29/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and communicating effectively with all departments and meeting ...

New

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 ...

NCW

Grinder/ Machine Operator 1st 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 ...

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 ...

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Ankeny, IA

$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 ...

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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Showing results 1-20

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.
CIP/Environmental Operator

CIP/Environmental Operator

Kemps

Le Mars, IA • On-site

$27.29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY
DFA/Kemps has immediate job openings for well-versed CIP Operators to perform an array of functions including maintaining, breaking down and setting up equipment and machinery, while troubleshooting and resolving basic to moderate operating issues. Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and communicating effectively with all departments and meeting daily deadlines.
DFA/Kemps is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative owned by more than 12,500 family farmers. Our mark matters and it represents the wholesomeness of dairy that we share with our communities and loved ones. DFA manufactures a variety of dairy products, including cheese, butter, fluid milk, ice cream, dairy ingredients and more, under well-known and established regional brands. Our fingerprints touch thousands of brands across the marketplace, and we're passionate about delivering the simple pleasures of dairy to people everywhere, straight from our family farm-owners. At DFA/Kemps we are proud to provide families with fresh, delicious dairy.
By joining DFA, you can help us continue to make a difference that matters. We care deeply about the well-being of our neighbors and friends, and we celebrate the diversity of our company and our world. It takes an incredible team to deliver the goodness of dairy and enrich our communities - come join us!
OUR CIP OPERATORS MAKE:
  • $27.29 per hour

SCHEDULE: Sunday - Thursday 5:00 AM - 1:30 PM
BENEFITS:
  • 401(k) with company contribution*
  • Competitive pay
  • Paid vacation and holidays*
  • Career growth opportunities - we promote from within!
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits
  • Service recognition and employee rewards*
  • Employee referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement*
  • Uniforms provided
  • Work for dairy farm families

REQUIREMENTS:
  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Must be able to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measurement, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimal
  • Must be able to pass all pre-employment screenings including drug, background and criminal checks
  • Must be able to push, pull, stand, walk, climb, crouch and lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Must be able to be able to work in a wet environment
  • May have some exposure to dust, fumes and cleaning chemicals
  • Must be willing to work flexible hours including overtime as required, occasional weekends and holidays

An Equal Opportunity Employer
Kemps logo

About Kemps

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1914, Kemps has been delighting families throughout the upper Midwest with wholesome and delicious dairy products. We started as a small creamery in Southeastern Minnesota, but we’ve grown quite a bit through the years. Today, we’re owned by Dairy Farmers of America Inc. (DFA). At Kemps, we produce fresh milk, frozen yogurt, sour cream, cottage cheese, and frozen novelty treats, to bring the goodness of Kemps to families and communities.

Industry

Animal farming

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Paul, MN, US

Year founded

1914

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