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Food Production Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

1114 - FSS - 1st Shift

Peosta, IA · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

We are seeking a meticulous and dedicated Food Safety Sanitor to join our team and ensure the highest standards of cleanliness and safety in our food production processes. If you are committed to ...

1172 - FSS- 3rd Shift

Davenport, IA · On-site

$12.50 - $17/hr

We are seeking a meticulous and dedicated Food Safety Sanitor to join our team and ensure the highest standards of cleanliness and safety in our food production processes. If you are committed to ...

1114 - FSS - 1st Shift

Peosta, IA · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

We are seeking a meticulous and dedicated Food Safety Sanitor to join our team and ensure the highest standards of cleanliness and safety in our food production processes. If you are committed to ...

Showing results 21-40

Food Production Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$14

$18

How much do food production associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for food production associate in Iowa is $14.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.97 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food production associate?

Food Production Associates are workers who assist in the preparation, packaging, and quality control of food products in manufacturing or processing facilities. Their responsibilities often include operating machinery, following recipes or production guidelines, maintaining cleanliness and safety standards, and monitoring products for quality. They play a key role in ensuring that food items are produced efficiently and meet health and safety regulations before reaching consumers.

What are some common challenges faced by food production associates, and how can they be managed?

Food Production Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict hygiene standards, meeting high production quotas, and adapting to fast-paced work environments. Successfully managing these challenges involves following proper safety protocols, staying organized, and collaborating effectively with team members. Open communication with supervisors and ongoing training also help associates stay updated on best practices and regulations, ensuring a smooth workflow and product quality.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food production associate?

To thrive as a Food Production Associate, you need knowledge of food safety standards, attention to detail, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with food processing equipment, HACCP protocols, and inventory management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced environments. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality food production that meets regulatory and company standards.

What is the difference between Food Production Associate vs Food Processing Worker?

AspectFood Production AssociateFood Processing Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require food safety certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires food safety training
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, food manufacturing plantsFood processing facilities, manufacturing plants, packaging lines
Employer & Industry UsageFood manufacturing companies, processing plantsFood processing companies, packaging facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Food Production Associate and a Food Processing Worker lies in their specific roles within food manufacturing. Food Production Associates typically focus on assembling, packaging, and quality checks on production lines, while Food Processing Workers may be involved in more specialized processing tasks. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, and they are often used interchangeably in the industry. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers find the right position aligned with their skills and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Food Production jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Food Production jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Food Production Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Food Production Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Food Production Associate job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,025 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

$17/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description

Job Summary

The Production Associate is responsible for supporting daily production operations by preparing, processing, packaging, and inspecting products in compliance with all safety, quality, and regulatory standards. This role requires adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety protocols, and a commitment to maintaining a clean and safe work environment. 


General Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operate production equipment and machinery safely and efficiently in accordance with company procedures. 
  • Monitor production to ensure consistent product quality and report any issues or deviations. 
  • Perform quality checks on raw and finished products, including visual inspections, temperature checks, and labeling accuracy. 
  • Follow all GMPs, food safety guidelines, sanitation procedures, and company SOPs to prevent contamination and ensure product integrity. 
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitized work area, including tools, equipment, and production surfaces. 
  • Assist in the setup, changeover, and cleanup of production equipment between runs. 
  • Accurately complete production logs, batch records, and documentation for traceability and compliance. 
  • Report any food safety or quality concerns to the Production Manager or Quality Assurance immediately. 
  • Work collaboratively with other team members and departments to meet production goals and resolve issues. 
  • Participate in ongoing training related to Food Safety, Allergen Control, HACCP, and Workplace Safety. 
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors or managers 

Schedule and Hours: 

2nd Shift hours are Monday through Thursday, 2:30pm - 1:00am

Requirements

Requirements

  • Must be 18 years or older. 
  • Ability to follow instructions, work independently or as part of a team, and pay close attention to detail. 
  • Willingness to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow all safety protocols. 


Competencies/Skills

  • Clear written and oral communication. 
  • Willingness to grow and adapt as the needs of the business grow. 
  • Detail-oriented, organized, and able to problem solve.  
  • Ability to work independently and team-orientated, able to work with diverse individuals within and outside the organization.  
  • Flexible and reliable, with a strong work ethic and willingness to learn. 


Physical Demands

  • The physical demands described here represent those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, sit, and walk. The employee is occasionally required to lift up to 50 pounds on their own, use hands to grasp or handle objects, reach with hands and arms, stoop, talk, and hear. Able to perform physical labor continually and stand for extended periods.  


Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people in this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required from personnel. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside their normal responsibilities as needed. Â