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Entry Level Process Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... process. We design and manufacture a wide range of innovative and sustainable metal packaging ... The Palletizer, Bagger, Entry Level Equipment Operator roles serve a key function in the operation ...

Batch Operator

Des Moines, IA

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

... an entry level capacity with minimal supervision. -Alert Program Manager of any problem(s ... of a process or internal/external customer service issue. -Use JCL (Job Control Language ...

Bagger/ Operator - 1st Shift

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

... process. We design and manufacture a wide range of innovative and sustainable metal packaging ... The Palletizer, Bagger, Entry Level Equipment Operator roles serve a key function in the operation ...

Bagger Operator- 2nd Shift

Dubuque, IA

$15.75 - $19/hr

... process. We design and manufacture a wide range of innovative and sustainable metal packaging ... The Palletizer, Bagger, Entry Level Equipment Operator roles serve a key function in the operation ...

Bagger Operator- 2nd Shift

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

... process. We design and manufacture a wide range of innovative and sustainable metal packaging ... The Palletizer, Bagger, Entry Level Equipment Operator roles serve a key function in the operation ...

Machine Operator

Le Mars, IA

$27.42 - $29.65/hr

... processes and procedures (SOPs, Standard Work, Etc.), adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices ... Minimum of 2 years solid and continuous work experience beyond an entry level role required.

Machine Operator

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$27.42 - $29.65/hr

... processes and procedures (SOPs, Standard Work, Etc.), adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices ... Minimum of 2 years solid and continuous work experience beyond an entry level role required.

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 ...

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Entry Level Process Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$19

$29

How much do entry level process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level process operator in Iowa is $19.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Process Operator, you need a basic understanding of industrial processes, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with process control systems, instrumentation, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and teamwork help operators excel in monitoring equipment and responding to issues. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and continuous plant operations, minimizing downtime and maintaining product quality.

What are some typical challenges an Entry Level Process Operator may face when starting in this role?

As an Entry Level Process Operator, you may initially find it challenging to quickly learn and follow complex operational procedures and safety protocols, especially in fast-paced manufacturing or industrial environments. Adjusting to shift work and collaborating with experienced operators can also require adaptability and strong communication skills. However, with on-the-job training and support from your team, you'll gain practical experience and confidence in monitoring equipment, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring quality standards are met.

What is the difference between Entry Level Process Operator vs Production Technician?

AspectEntry Level Process OperatorProduction Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or processing plants, often in chemical, food, or pharmaceutical industriesManufacturing facilities, focusing on equipment maintenance and process support
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in chemical, oil & gas, and manufacturing sectorsUsed across similar industries, often overlapping with process roles

The Entry Level Process Operator and Production Technician roles share similar environments and credentials, often working in manufacturing plants. While both roles support production processes, process operators typically focus on monitoring and controlling equipment, whereas technicians may handle maintenance and troubleshooting tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and career goals.

What is an entry level process operator?

An entry level process operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling machinery and equipment in manufacturing or processing plants. They ensure that processes run smoothly, safely, and efficiently by following standard operating procedures and reporting any issues to supervisors. Their duties often include starting or stopping equipment, taking readings, performing basic maintenance, and maintaining accurate logs. This role typically requires a high school diploma and some on-the-job training, making it an accessible entry point into industrial operations.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Iowa are:

Bagger/ Palletizer Operator

Crownholdings

Dubuque, IA

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

About Crown

Crown Holdings, Inc. through it's subsidiaries, is a world leader in the metal packaging production process. We design and manufacture a wide range of innovative and sustainable metal packaging solutions and products. Our clients are some of the largest and most respected companies in the world.


Crown is dedicated to building a team of highly talented, dedicated, and driven individuals. It's an exciting time to join our business because Crown offers you the opportunity to grow and develop your skills in an expanding industry.

Crown was founded with the goal of valuing and promoting sustainability and this vision continues to be essential to our long-term future.

Job Description:

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 ends at the Dubuque, Iowa manufacturing location.

Duties And Responsibilities:

Reporting directly to manufacturing floor supervision and management, the Palletizer, Bagger and Entry Level Equipment Operator responsibilities would include, but not be limited to, the following:

  • Operate the automatic can palletizer including inserting separator sheets between layers of cans, and placing top frames on top of completed pallets
  • Sorting and inspecting cans, printing pallet tickets, and performing quality checks
  • Keeping the work area clean and organized, performing minor tasks as directed by the line maintainer here qualified
  • Supporting the line maintainer in the operation of the production lines where qualified
  • Assisting in the preparing, loading and feeding of metal coils when requested
  • Removing jams as they occur in the production lines
  • Visual inspection of finished cans and ends for obvious defects and recording this information
  • Assisting in removing metal dies and assisting in lubrication when needed
  • Replacing and re-aligning cans as necessary
  • Operating automatic bulk packing machinery to load/unload various size can onto pallets
  • Removing old ID tags from packing material and applying correct ID tags
  • Maintaining numeric sequence of pallets of cans and ends
  • Observe and practices company safety rules and SOP's at all times
  • Maintain the flow of finished product as required
  • Communicate all pertinent information between departments, peers and between shifts on changes to equipment, production schedules, production problems or any other related information.
  • Works with employees on identifying, discussing solutions and implementing "fixes" on machinery and equipment problems
  • Performs other job-related duties as required or assigned

Qualifications:

In addition to the specific responsibilities listed above, the ideal candidate will possess the following:

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School Education/GED or equivalent preferred
  • One or more years' experience in a manufacturing environment

Preferred Requirements:

  • Vocation or technical certification would be a plus
  • High-speed packaging industry experience

Competencies:

  • Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team
  • Must be able to look at new solutions and "think creatively and strategically" to solve problems
  • Excellent time management and project management skills as well as the ability to multi-task
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Provenmath and computer skills and working knowledge of variousMicrosoft programs (Excel, Word, Access, etc.)

Physical Requirements:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, use hands, reach with hands and arms, and may be required to balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  • The associate may lift and/or move up to 50 pounds on occasion
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus

Working Conditions:

  • The majority of work will be in a plant environment but maybe required to move around to different parts of the manufacturing floor
  • While performing the duties of this job, the associate will be exposed to moving mechanical parts and vehicular trafficin the plant
  • The associate may be exposed to a wide range of temperatures
  • The noise level is frequently loud

*Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

What Crown Offers You
  • Strong engagement and commitment to the safety of our employees

  • The opportunity to build a meaningful career

  • Professional and personal development through training and work experiences

Join us and become part of a team of professionals who are passionate about sustainable packaging!

Working TogetherWorking Together is one of the five pillars that make up our Twentyby30 program. We aim to value and respect each individual and foster an environment of inclusivity.