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Farm Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Farm Agronomy Operator

Hawarden, IA

$60K/yr

Generational farming industry cooperative that continues to grow and evolve in size, technology and innovation is looking for an experienced farm hand to join their strong operation! This position ...

DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA

Forklift Operator

Le Mars, IA

$26.90/hr

DFA/Kemps Dairy is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing ... OUR FORKLIFT OPERATORS MAKE: * $26.90per hour SCHEDULE: Mon. - Fri. 9:00 PM - 5:30 AM with Saturday ...

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All JobsFarm Operator JobsFarm Operator Jobs in Iowa

Farm Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$19

$25

How much do farm operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for farm 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 the difference between Farm Operator vs Farmhand?

AspectFarm OperatorFarmhand
CredentialsMay require a high school diploma, farm equipment certificationsTypically high school diploma, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentOperate machinery, manage farm activitiesAssist with daily farm tasks, manual labor
Employer & Industry UsageFarm operators are responsible for overall farm managementFarmhands support farm operations under supervision

Farm Operators oversee farm activities and machinery, often managing staff and resources, while Farmhands perform manual labor and assist with daily tasks. Both roles are essential in farm operations, but Farm Operators have more responsibility and may require specific certifications.

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

To thrive as a Farm Operator, you need a solid understanding of agricultural practices, crop and livestock management, and basic business principles, often supported by experience or an agriculture-related degree. Familiarity with farm machinery, irrigation systems, and agricultural software is typically required, and certifications in pesticide application or equipment operation can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, organization, and leadership skills set outstanding farm operators apart, especially when managing teams and adapting to changing conditions. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure efficient farm operations, maximize productivity, and maintain sustainability in a dynamic agricultural environment.

What does a Farm Operator do?

A Farm Operator is responsible for managing the daily operations of a farm, which may include planting, cultivating, harvesting crops, and raising livestock. They oversee the maintenance of equipment, management of farm workers, and ensure compliance with safety and agricultural regulations. Farm Operators also handle budgeting, marketing, and often make decisions on crop rotation, pest control, and resource management to maximize productivity and profitability.

What are some common challenges faced by Farm Operators when managing both crops and livestock, and how can they be addressed?

Farm Operators who manage both crops and livestock often face the challenge of balancing time and resources between these two demanding areas. Seasonal workloads can fluctuate significantly, requiring careful planning to ensure that planting, harvesting, and animal care are all properly attended to. Additionally, biosecurity and disease management become more complex when livestock and crops coexist. Effective communication with team members, the use of farm management software, and ongoing training in best practices can help address these challenges and improve overall efficiency.
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What cities in Iowa are hiring for Farm Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Farm Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Farm Operator jobs in IA? For Farm Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Farm Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Farm Operator job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,391 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Farm Equipment Operator - Applicator

Farm Equipment Operator - Applicator

Key Cooperative

Roland, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Key Cooperative is a member-owned, rural Iowa cooperative serving agriculture producers. With locations in 13 communities and 6 counties. Key Cooperative provides Agronomy, Energy, Feed and Grain with a small-town, yet professional feel. Our employees take pride in our identity and they're committed to the success of our owners by delivering innovation, leadership and performance. If you're looking for a place where you can grow and be proud of what you do each day - you can find this kind of career at Key Cooperative.
We are currently hiring for the position of Farm Equipment Operator - Applicator to join our team in our NW region (Story Co. & surrounding counties). In this role you will be operating farm equipment such as a sprayer or floater performing custom application for our farming member owners and customers.
We offer competitive compensation along with a full benefit package including development opportunities, health, vision and dental insurance along with two retirement plans - 401(k) and pension. We also offer an amazing family work environment where we all share the passion for agriculture and our member owners and customers.
This role is for you if you have:
  • High school diploma along with experience operating farm and/or heavy equipment.
  • CDL, Applicator's licenses, or willingness/ability to obtain both.
  • Ability to work longer hours during peak seasons.
  • An outstanding work ethic with ability to pay attention to the details.
  • Ability to always project a positive attitude to customers and employees while exhibiting good customer relations skills.

What you will be doing:
  • Operate sprayer equipment to accurately apply fertilizer and chemicals to customer crops.
  • Precisely blends and custom applies fertilizers and agricultural chemicals based on recommendations and label directions.
  • Loads and unloads outbound and inbound inventory.
  • Maintains facility and equipment so that they have a good appearance and are always in working order; performs light maintenance work on selected vehicles.
  • Completes all assigned tasks according to work order estimates and their daily work schedule
  • Keeps facility, safety, equipment, and application records as required.
  • Keeps the Location Manager informed of product inventory levels that could restrict application or delivery schedules, and any other operational issues that may arise.
  • Promotes the business with existing and potential customers.
  • Implements, promotes, and supports all Key Cooperative programs.
  • Assists in keeping all inside and outside work areas extremely neat and orderly.

Apply