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Farm Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ForceSource

Farm Hand with CDL

Nevada, IA · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

The ideal candidate enjoys working outdoors, has experience operating heavy equipment, and is ... Maintain farm buildings, fences, and equipment. * Keep the farm clean, organized, and operating ...

Apply Early

360 Headhunter

Farm Agronomy Operator

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$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 ...

Apply Early

ForceSource

Farm Hand with CDL

Nevada, IA · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

The ideal candidate enjoys working outdoors, has experience operating heavy equipment, and is ... Maintain farm buildings, fences, and equipment. * Keep the farm clean, organized, and operating ...

Kemps

CIP/Environmental Operator

Le Mars, IA

$27.29/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... DFA/Kemps is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative ...

DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA

Blow Mold Operator

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$26.98/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... DFA/Kemps is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative ...

Kemps

Highrise 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 OPERATORS MAKE: * $26.90 per hour SCHEDULE: Mon. - Fri. 1:00 PM - 9:30 PM BENEFITS: * 401(k) ...

Kemps

Highrise Forklift Operator

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$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 ...

Guida's Dairy

Culture Filler Operator

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$26.98/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... DFA/Kemps is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative ...

Kemps

Culture Filler Operator

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$26.98/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... DFA/Kemps is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative ...

Dairiconcepts, L.P.

Culture Filler Operator

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$26.98/hr

Machine operators will be responsible for processing finished or raw materials, while following ... DFA/Kemps is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 3, 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.
What are popular job titles related to Farm Operator jobs in Iowa? For Farm Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Farm Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Farm Operator jobs in Iowa are:
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 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% 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

Other

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

Job description

Farm Equipment Operator - Applicator
Location Roland, Iowa

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