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Factory Jobs in Akron, IA (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator Nights

North Sioux City, SD · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

The ability to maintain safety standards by using LOTO and confined space entry procedures when working in the primary area of the factory. * The ability to load production materials into the primary ...

Lead and drive continuous improvement projects to elevate the reliability and performance of factory assets and structures.Analyze existing operational costs with a focus on implementing innovative ...

Truck Driver

IA · On-site

Transports equipment to/from customers and/or between dealer facilities; may also pick-up new equipment from a John Deere factory * Supports the sales department with equipment delivery as needed.

Showing results 21-29

Factory information

See Akron, IA salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do factory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for factory in Akron, IA is $16.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $17.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a factory worker?

Factory workers are employees who perform various tasks in a manufacturing environment, such as assembling products, operating machinery, packaging goods, or performing quality checks. Their roles are essential for producing and preparing products for distribution. Factory workers often work on production lines and must follow strict safety and quality guidelines to ensure efficient and safe operations.

What are different factory jobs?

Factory jobs focus on different aspects of the manufacturing process. As a factory worker, you may perform your duties on a production line where you produce, assemble, or package products or parts. Shift managers oversee operations during a particular time of day, while supervisors or foremen manage a department or monitor the entire factory floor. You can work as a technician, a job in which your responsibilities involve maintaining factory equipment. Factories also employ managers, administrative staff, accountants, designers, engineers, and quality assurance professionals. You can find factory jobs in various industries, include automotive, fashion, food, electronics, household goods, and industrial products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a factory worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Factory Worker, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and attention to detail, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like OSHA training are commonly required. Reliability, teamwork, and good communication skills help individuals excel in this role. These attributes are vital for maintaining efficient production, ensuring workplace safety, and contributing to overall operational success.

What are some common challenges faced by workers in a factory environment, and how can they be addressed?

Factory workers often encounter challenges such as repetitive tasks, meeting production targets under tight deadlines, and maintaining safety standards in a fast-paced environment. To address these, it's important to stay focused, follow established safety protocols, and communicate effectively with supervisors and team members. Many factories also offer training sessions and ergonomic equipment to help reduce physical strain and improve productivity, which can make the work more manageable and rewarding.

What is the difference between Factory vs Machine Operator?

AspectFactoryMachine Operator
Primary RoleOversees entire manufacturing processes and manages production linesOperates specific machinery within the factory
CredentialsTypically requires basic education; certifications depend on machineryOften requires technical training or certifications for specific equipment
Work EnvironmentFactory floor, involving supervision and coordinationFactory floor, focused on operating machinery
Industry UsageUsed broadly to describe manufacturing facilities and processesSpecific role within factories, focusing on machinery operation

While a factory refers to the entire manufacturing facility or process, a machine operator is a specific role within that environment responsible for operating machinery. Understanding this distinction helps in targeting the right job searches and career planning.

What are good factory jobs?

Factory jobs typically include roles such as assembly line worker, machine operator, quality control inspector, and production technician. These jobs often require physical stamina, attention to detail, and familiarity with tools or machinery; certifications like OSHA safety training can be beneficial. They usually involve shift work in a manufacturing environment with a focus on efficiency and safety.

What type of job is working in a factory?

Working in a factory typically involves operating machinery, assembling products, or managing production processes in an industrial environment. Factory jobs often require physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and may involve shifts or overtime. Skills in equipment handling and basic technical knowledge are commonly needed.

What cities near Akron, IA are hiring for Factory jobs?

Cities near Akron, IA with the most Factory job openings:

Infographic showing various Factory job openings in Akron, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,064 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Plant Operator

Bluestem Biosciences

South Sioux City, NE • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

ABOUT US:

We use American corn and existing bioethanol infrastructure to produce critical chemicals right here at homepowering U.S. competitiveness and securing our nation's supply chains - while reinvesting in agricultural America. Bluestem Biosciences has engineered a breakthrough in American manufacturing. Our proprietary biomanufacturing process represents a new, cost-effective, and advantaged way to produce platform chemicals domestically. With the foundation of existing infrastructure, we convert abundant, renewable American corn into high-value chemicals at scale. JOIN US AS WE ACCELERATE TO COMMERCIALIZATION

Job Title: Plant Operator

Location: On-Site (Production Facility)

Role Type: Full-Time

Role Summary We are seeking a reliable and safety-focused Plant Operator to join our production team. Reporting directly to the Plant Manager, you will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and continuous daily operation of our biochemical production equipment.

As a core member of the operations team, you will work on a shift schedule to monitor equipment, execute daily production runs, and support the facility's exciting transition from commissioning to full-scale commercial operation.

Key Responsibilities

  • Daily Operations & Shift Work: Operate the plant daily on a designated shift schedule, ensuring continuous, safe, and efficient facility operations.
  • Equipment Monitoring: Monitor and control biochemical production systemsincluding upstream fermentation and downstream purification equipmentto maintain optimal process yields and specifications.
  • Commissioning & Startup Support: Assist with hands-on Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and initial commissioning/startup activities for utility and process systems.
  • Safety Compliance: Strictly follow and enforce all Site Safety Protocols, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), confined space entry, and Process Safety Management (PSM) standards.
  • Procedures & SOPs: Execute production runs according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Work Instructions, providing feedback to improve technical accuracy and efficiency.
  • Troubleshooting & Maintenance: Identify operational bottlenecks, equipment failures, or yield deviations on the floor, and assist with Root Cause Analysis (RCA) to rectify issues quickly.
  • Shift Reporting: Document and communicate shift data, technical challenges, and equipment status clearly to the Operations Lead.

Requirements

  • Experience Level: 2+ years of experience in biochemical or specialty chemical manufacturing. Experience working within a brownfield or greenfield startup environment is highly preferred.
  • Technical Familiarity: Hands-on experience with upstream aerobic/anaerobic fermentation, aseptic processing, or downstream purification systems.
  • Technical Skills: Strong understanding of plant operations, fluid dynamics, and reading Process & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) or Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs).
  • Working Style (Adaptability): Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and handle the physical, "boots-on-the-ground" demands of daily plant operations.
  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective shift handovers and reporting to leadership.
  • Location & Availability: Ability to work full-time on-site at the production facility on a shift schedule.

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans available.

Bluestem is an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.