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Factory Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Teams Will need metatarsal safety boots for first day This is a shop floor position so candidates must be comfortable in this environment -75% time spent on feet within the factory. -Must be able to ...

Lift Truck Operator

Waverly, IA · On-site

$29.61/hr

Maintain a food factory level of sanitation. Communicate with operators, mechanics, and management. Equipment: Operate and adjust packaging equipment in a safe manner. Ability to modify running ...

The Maintenance Planning Supervisor position is a key person for the factory maintenance program who owns all technical store areas and people operating in the technical store. Responsible for ...

Senior Software Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$120K - $159K/yr

Manufacturing domain experience Practical exposure to factory operations (Manufacturing / Quality Engineering). Comfortable collaborating with plant stakeholders to translate operational needs into ...

New

Lift Truck Operator

Waverly, IA · On-site

$29.61/hr

Maintain a food factory level of sanitation. Communicate with operators, mechanics, and management. Equipment: Operate and adjust packaging equipment in a safe manner. Ability to modify running ...

Showing results 41-60

Factory information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$10

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How much do factory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for factory in Waterloo, IA is $16.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 jobs are there in a factory?

Factory jobs include roles such as assembly line workers, machine operators, quality control inspectors, maintenance technicians, and supervisors. These positions often require knowledge of manufacturing processes, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications or training in specific equipment. Factory workers typically work in shifts within a production environment to ensure efficient operation.

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 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 some good factory jobs?

Factory jobs include roles such as assembly line worker, machine operator, quality control inspector, and production technician. These positions often require physical stamina, attention to detail, and familiarity with tools or machinery; some may also require safety certifications or training. They typically involve working in manufacturing environments with shifts that can include nights and weekends.

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 the most commonly searched types of Factory jobs in Waterloo, IA?

The most popular types of Factory jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Factory job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,585 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Facilities Engineer

VIVA USA INC

Waterloo, IA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description:
Facilities Engineering Project Manager
Primary Position Responsibilities & Duties
The primary responsibility for this position is to provide overall engineering and project management services related to implementing changes to Tractor Operations' manufacturing facilities.
Experience with Manufacturing Engineering, Operations and/or Maintenance is recommended as well as knowledge of Emergency Notification Systems (ENS). This position will plan, coordinate and perform facilities and maintenance work for the facility infrastructure, production equipment and processes of moderate scope. Operates in a team environment. Assigns, coordinates and reviews the work of support and contract personnel.
Some specific duties of this position are:
Coordination, planning, and management of multi-discipline facilities and maintenance-based projects
Hot work Requests and Red tag reviews
Provides engineering design for the infrastructure for the facility, grounds and production equipment and processes through both internal and external resources using various engineering disciplines.
Provides project management of projects related to the facility infrastructure, production machines, equipment and processes that support the manufacturing and/or distribution operation. Projects complexity may integrate several areas of engineering and require limited management of outside design professionals and contractors.
Provides troubleshooting of the facility infrastructure and production equipment to support production, manufacturing, distribution and maintenance operations.
Provides life, safety and building code analysis and supports and implements programs within the organization to prevent injuries and illnesses. Assists in the identification and resolution of potential environmental, safety, ergonomic and health hazards.
o Emphasis on ENS (Emergency Notification Systems), FM Global Insurance coordination, I.T. & network project coordination.
Work with non-mobile material handling equipment application, engineering, and installation.
Research market for qualified suppliers of materials and services. Seeks competitive and negotiated sources for materials, equipment and services for maintenance and new construction projects assigned to engineers.
Required Skills, Knowledge & Relevant Work Experience
Experience in project management
Cross competency experience with either Manufacturing Engineering, Operations Supervision, and/or Maintenance Engineering
Experience in coordinating multiple skilled trades and contractors to achieve project objectives (5+ years)
Background in building infrastructure systems (mechanical, electrical, structural) (3+ years)
Understanding of engineering principles as related to manufacturing operations (3+ years)
Communication and teamwork skills
Ability to prioritize multiple active projects simultaneously
Ability to work with personnel and middle management to communicate and coordinate project activities.
Knowledge of OSHA Safety standards
Work Details:
Onsite only (no remote)
Business casual dress code
Interview preference: Teams
Will need metatarsal safety boots for first day
This is a shop floor position so candidates must be comfortable in this environment
-75% time spent on feet within the factory.
-Must be able to lift up to 30 lbs
Notes:
Shift: 1st shift (7:00 am to 3:30 pm) with the occasional need to work until 5 pm a couple times a month.
VIVA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants have an equal opportunity for placement, and all employees have an equal opportunity to develop on the job. This means that VIVA will not discriminate against any employee or qualified applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status