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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Crown Holdings, Inc.

Bagger/ Operator - 1st 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 ...

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 ...

Wells Enterprises, Inc

Machine Operator

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$27.42 - $29.65/hr

Under the direction of the production supervisor and operator, the Machine Operator is responsible ... Minimum of 2 years solid and continuous work experience beyond an entry level role required.

Wells Enterprise

Machine Operator

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$27.42 - $29.65/hr

Under the direction of the production supervisor and operator, the Machine Operator is responsible ... Minimum of 2 years solid and continuous work experience beyond an entry level role required.

Red Boot Beverage

Production Line Operator

Des Moines, IA

$16 - $19/hr

Production Line Operator On-site | U.S. Work Authorization Required Position Summary The Production ... This is an entry-level role focused on learning processes, food safety, and teamwork in a fast ...

Aerotek

Entry Level Recruiter

Johnston, IA · On-site

$50K/yr

Aerotek is an operating company within Allegis Group, a global leader in talent solutions. We are a privately held organization with over 200+ offices nationwide. We work with 95% of Fortune 500 ...

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Entry Level Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 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 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 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 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
Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Aspen Dental

Cedar Rapids, IA

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 hours ago

Aspen Dental rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 458 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

659th of 864 rated healthcare providers

Job description

At Aspen Dental, we put You First, offering the security and job stability that comes with working with a world-class dental service organization (DSO).  Our best-in-class training program, generous benefits package, and flexible scheduling will help you thrive in your career.  When you join our team as an Entry-Level Dental Assistant, you will have the opportunity to give back to communities and positively affect patients’ lives. 

Salary: $18 - $20 / hour

Job Type: Full-Time

At Aspen Dental, we put You First.  We offer:

  • A pathway for you to become a DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) to maximize your career potential
  • Part-time, Full-time, flexible scheduling available*
  • Paid training to become radiology and safety certified through our partnership with the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
  • Paid time off and holidays, Health, Vision, and 401(k) savings plan
  • Free Continuing Education (CE) through TAG U

How You’ll Make a Difference

As an Entry-Level Dental Assistant, you will help support the clinical needs of the practice’s patients and doctors. You will have the support and training you need to help you be successful, no matter your level of expertise.   We are committed to promoting from within to allow you to expand your career and your life.  You can help make a difference in your community one smile at a time. 

  • Assist during a variety of treatment procedures
  • Set up and breakdown operatory post treatment
  • Manage infection control – prepare and sterilize instruments and equipment
  • Supports patient charting for Doctors
  • Perform various office tasks as necessary
  • Collaborate with other members of the dental team to provide exceptional patient care

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Obtain your radiology and safety certification within the required timeframe for the state of practice
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with patients of all ages and backgrounds
  • Commitment to ongoing learning and professional development

Aspen Dental-branded practices are independently owned and operated by licensed dentists. The practices receive non-clinical business support services from Aspen Dental Management, Inc., a dental support organization.

*May vary by independently owned and operated Aspen Dental locations.

ADMI Corp., d/b/a TAG-The Aspen Group, its affiliates, related companies and independently owned supported clinical practices are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers and welcome everyone to apply.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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