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Farm Equipment Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Farm Creek Trucking

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CDL Driver with Farmhand experience

Cascade, IA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... operating advanced equipment. Reporting to the Farm Manager, this role involves working with precision agriculture technology and semi trucks to maintain smooth and productive farming activities year ...

Farm Creek Trucking

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CDL Driver with Farmhand experience

Cascade, IA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... operating advanced equipment. Reporting to the Farm Manager, this role involves working with precision agriculture technology and semi trucks to maintain smooth and productive farming activities year ...

ForceSource

Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Job OverviewWe are seeking a motivated and experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our dynamic ... tankers, and farm machinery to perform tasks such as excavation, material handling, grading ...

ForceSource

Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Job Overview We are seeking a motivated and experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our ... tankers, and farm machinery to perform tasks such as excavation, material handling, grading ...

Nexus Cooperative

Agricultural Equipment Operator

IA · On-site

$18.65/hr

Duties may include driving/operating a tender truck, delivering agronomy products to the certified spray and spreader operators, operating equipment in the farmers field, or delivering agronomy and ...

Thompson Agro

Grain Hauling-Farm Assistant

Leland, IA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Primary job duty is hauling grain (semi) but will also include operating farm equipment and other general farm tasks. Family farm setting near Leland, IA. Full-Time. Retirement Plan available, Paid ...

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Job Overview We are seeking a motivated and experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our ... tankers, and farm machinery to perform tasks such as excavation, material handling, grading ...

Absolute Group

Equipment Operator

Urbana, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Successful candidate will have experience with farming, agriculture and or a landscape background ... When not operating equipment individuals must be willing to perform physical labor work wherever ...

Absolute Group

Equipment Operator

Granger, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Successful candidates will have experience with farming, agriculture and or a landscape background ... When not operating equipment individuals must be willing to perform physical labor work wherever ...

Absolute Group

Equipment Operator

Granger, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Successful candidates will have experience with farming, agriculture and or a landscape background ... When not operating equipment individuals must be willing to perform physical labor work wherever ...

Absolute Group

Equipment Operator

Urbana, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Successful candidate will have experience with farming, agriculture and or a landscape background ... When not operating equipment individuals must be willing to perform physical labor work wherever ...

JTH WIND LLC

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Heavy Equipment Operator Working Foreman

Forest City, IA · On-site

$28 - $42/hr

... and solar farms running--miles of precisely installed electrical cable that connect renewable ... As a Heavy Equipment Operator - Working Foreman focused on cable installation, you'll lead crews in ...

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All JobsFarm Equipment Operator JobsFarm Equipment Operator Jobs in Iowa

Farm Equipment Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$19

$25

How much do farm equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for farm equipment operator in Iowa is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $21.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a farm equipment operator?

Farm Equipment Operators are skilled workers who operate and maintain machinery used in agricultural settings, such as tractors, combines, balers, and plows. They are responsible for preparing fields, planting crops, applying fertilizers or pesticides, and harvesting produce. In addition to operating machinery, they often perform routine maintenance and minor repairs to ensure equipment runs efficiently. Farm Equipment Operators play a crucial role in modern farming by increasing productivity and supporting various tasks throughout the farming cycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a farm equipment operator?

To thrive as a Farm Equipment Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, experience with agricultural machinery, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, tractor controls, and safety certifications like a commercial driver's license (CDL) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently set top operators apart. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of equipment, maximize crop yields, and minimize costly mistakes on the farm.

What are some common challenges farm equipment operators face during peak seasons?

During peak planting and harvesting seasons, Farm Equipment Operators often work long hours and must adapt to changing weather conditions. Equipment breakdowns and maintenance issues can add pressure, requiring quick troubleshooting skills to minimize downtime. Additionally, coordinating with other team members and keeping up with tight production schedules are essential for ensuring smooth operations and meeting farm deadlines.

What is the difference between Farm Equipment Operator vs Tractor Driver?

AspectFarm Equipment OperatorTractor Driver
CredentialsMay require CDL or specialized certificationsOften requires only a valid driver's license
Work EnvironmentOperates various farm machinery across fields and farmsPrimarily operates tractors, often on farms or construction sites
Industry UsageUsed broadly in agriculture, forestry, and constructionPrimarily in agriculture and landscaping
Job ScopeHandles multiple types of equipment and tasksFocuses mainly on tractor operation

Farm Equipment Operators and Tractor Drivers both work in agriculture, but Farm Equipment Operators typically handle a wider range of machinery and may require additional certifications. Tractor Drivers focus mainly on operating tractors, often with simpler licensing requirements. Both roles are essential in farming operations, but Farm Equipment Operators have a broader scope of responsibilities.

How much do farm equipment operators make?

Farm equipment operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of machinery operated. Skilled operators with certifications or experience in operating large or specialized equipment can earn higher wages, especially during peak seasons or in high-demand areas.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Farm Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Farm Equipment Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Farm Equipment Operator jobs in IA?

For Farm Equipment Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Farm Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Farm Equipment Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 5% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,391 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Farm Equipment Operator - Applicator

Key Cooperative

Roland, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Farm Equipment Operator - Applicator
Location Roland, Iowa

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