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Farm Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... tankers, and farm machinery to perform tasks such as excavation, material handling, grading ... RequirementsProven experience operating construction machinery such as excavators, loaders (front ...

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

... tankers, and farm machinery to perform tasks such as excavation, material handling, grading ... RequirementsProven experience operating construction machinery such as excavators, loaders (front ...

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

... tankers, and farm machinery to perform tasks such as excavation, material handling, grading ... RequirementsProven experience operating construction machinery such as excavators, loaders (front ...

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

... tankers, and farm machinery to perform tasks such as excavation, material handling, grading ... Requirements * Proven experience operating construction machinery such as excavators, loaders ...

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

... tankers, and farm machinery to perform tasks such as excavation, material handling, grading ... Requirements * Proven experience operating construction machinery such as excavators, loaders ...

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

... tankers, and farm machinery to perform tasks such as excavation, material handling, grading ... Requirements * Proven experience operating construction machinery such as excavators, loaders ...

Bunge

Process Operator

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$27.73/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

BG), our purpose is to connect farmers to consumers to deliver essential food, feed and fuel to the ... Process Operator, Facilities, Food Safety, Supply, Agricultural, Manufacturing, Operations, Quality ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 15, 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,391 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

FARROWING LEAD| MARCO SOW FARM| ST.ANTHONY,IA

JBS Imports

Saint Anthony, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description
Position at JBS USA
Position Title: Department Head
Job Status: Full-time
Exempt (Agriculture)
Direct Reports: Breeding and/or Farrowing Employees
Reports to: Farm Manager
Nature of Position:
Manage all functions of the department including staff for the successful operation of the unit.
Essential Functions:
(Order of Essential Functions does not indicate importance of Functions)
  • Take an active role in safety program including following safety procedures, enforcement of policy and continued training.
  • Perform all required duties in a timely manner as outlined in the S.O.P (Standard Operating Procedure).
  • Work scheduled hours which may include nights and weekends.
  • Maintain a good working relationship with all co-workers.
  1. Must recognize and report any broken or faulty equipment to their supervisor.
  2. Meet company expectations for attendance at work and punctuality.
  3. Follow all rules and procedures from both the employee handbook and direct rules and procedures from supervisor.
  4. Attend all mandatory meetings and training.
  5. Must be receptive to constructive criticism by co-workers and supervisors.
  6. Understand and demonstrate AI (Artificial Insemination) protocols and procedures.
  7. Achieve conception rate goal for wean sows or gilts set by location.
  8. Understand and perform proper techniques of sow monitoring in farrowing.
  9. Understand and perform proper techniques of day 0-3 pig care.
  10. Understand and perform proper techniques of sorting and fostering.
  11. Understand and perform proper techniques of manure feedback.
  12. Understand and perform proper techniques of prostaglandin use.
  13. Understand and perform time efficiencies in all tasks.
  14. Assist in maintaining inventories of medications and supplies.
  15. Take responsibility for correct handling and storage of semen.
  16. Understand and demonstrate knowledge of pregnancy diagnostics.
  17. Understand and demonstrate knowledge of unit targets and objectives.
  • Perform equipment, facilities, grounds maintenance and manure handling as required.
  • Understand and demonstrate correct animal handling techniques at all times.
  • Properly identify and understand and demonstrate proper procedures for treatment, vaccines and bio feedback guidelines of sick and/or lame animals through health assessments.
  • Agree to and observe all Bio-Security Requirements for the unit.
  • Achieve PQA+ (Pork Quality Assurance Training).
  • Ensure that all animal welfare procedures outlined by TriOak are followed.
  • Ability to lead the team in the absence of the sow farm manager.
  • Assign schedules for power washing.
  • Assist with loading pigs and sows.
  • Training of animals for electronic feeding system and demonstrate correct feeding procedures.
  • Held accountable for production results and key performance indicators.
  • Records accurate concise records to be turned in to database systems.
  • Count pigs total born and born alive.
  • Performing Day 1 through 3 management, semen handling and storage and heat checking.
  • Will perform supervisory role training and managing employees.
  • Assist with Sow conditioning under direct supervision.
  • Complete other duties as may be assigned.

Success Factors:
  • Project leadership qualities to effectively promote corporate philosophy.
  • Take action in solving problems while exhibiting judgment and a systematic approach to decision making: to identify the important dimensions of a problem, determine potential causes, obtain relevant information and specify alternate solutions.
  • Establish and carry out specific courses of action for self and/or groups.
  • Show a competent level of self-motivation to complete tasks.
  • Work within and lead in a team environment.
  • Work in a physically demanding environment.
  • Demonstrate honesty, trustworthiness, dependability and caring.
  • Be proud of work well done.
  • Respect others.
  • Demonstrate a strong work ethic.

Job Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated expertise in swine management.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage inventory and throughput efficiently.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage people.
  • Be able to lift and move 50lbs up to 100 yards.
  • Push and/or pull a minimum of 500lbs in a cart with wheels when required.
  • Squat to floor, grip small objects with ease and twist at least 45 degrees.
  • Capable of repeated motions.
  • Be responsive to visible signs of animal discomfort.
  • Be responsive to verbal alarms and sounds of animals.
  • Be able to understand, retain and perform oral and written instructions in English.
  • Able to communicate orally and in writing with other employees and company contacts.
  • Be able to move, load and unload animals up to 750 pounds.
  • Ability to walk, stand and squat for long periods of time on different surfaces including concrete and slats.
  • Ability to climb in and out of crates and over obstacles.
  • Climb different types of ladders including feed bin ladders.
  • Maintain balance on all surfaces.
  • Must not own or live near any swine. Must not live with anyone who has contact with swine.

Working Conditions:
  • During summer months outside temperatures can be over 100° F for entire scheduled workday.
  • During winter months outside temperatures can be below 0° F for entire scheduled workday.
  • During and after heavy rains the road in and around the farms can become extremely muddy and difficult to maneuver on.
  • During different job duties the noise inside or outside barns can become very loud.
  • Will be exposed daily to odors, dusts and gasses that may be uncomfortable or hazardous if proper procedures are not followed.
  • Will be exposed to electrical boxes and electrical machinery that are not to be entered or repaired by those who are not certified in basic electrical training and/or lock out tag out.
  • Will be exposed daily to procedures that may cause contact with hazardous materials.

Preferred Qualifications: Bilingual - Spanish
The applicant who fills this position will be eligible for the following compensation and benefits:
  • Benefits: Vision, Medical, and Dental coverage begin after 60 days of employment;
  • Paid Time Off: sick leave, vacation, and 6 company observed holidays;
  • 401(k): company match begins after the first year of service and follows the company vesting schedule;

This position does not have an application deadline. We will continue to recruit until the position has been filled.
The Company is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our team members and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct a drug, alcohol, and background checks for all new team members post-offer and prior to the start of employment. The Immigration Reform and Control Act requires that verification of employment eligibility be documented for all new employees by the end of the third day of work.
About us: JBS USA is a leading global provider of diversified, high-quality food products, including a portfolio of well-recognized brands and innovative, easy-to-use food solutions. We process, prepare, package and deliver fresh and value-added premium meat, poultry and retail-ready food products for customers in approximately 100 countries on six continents. We are also the majority shareholder of Pilgrim's, the largest poultry company in North America. JBS USA employs more than 100,000 team members, and our corporate office is located in beautiful Greeley, Colorado, where our 1,200 team members onsite enjoy more than 300 days of sunshine a year.
Our mission: To be the best in all that we do, completely focused on our business, ensuring the best products and services to our customers, a relationship of trust with our suppliers, profitability for our shareholders and the opportunity of a better future for all of our team members.
Our core values are: Availability, Determination, Discipline, Humility, Ownership, Simplicity, Sincerity
EOE, including disability/vets

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