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General Helper Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Hourly Production

Waterloo, IA ยท On-site

$25.01/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

General Helper/Hourly Production Category/Shift: Hourly Full-Time, 3rd shift - 6:00pm - 6:00am, 24/7 Schedule (3 days on, 2 days off, etc), 3-day weekends every other week, predictable bi-weekly ...

Highway Helper

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$23/hr

We are seeking a Full Time Highway Helper , to join our team in Des Moines, IA. Shift Hours: Monday ... A general working knowledge of traffic incident management is a plus. * Military, Police or ...

Highway Helper

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$23/hr

We are seeking a Full Time Highway Helper , to join our team in Des Moines, IA. Shift Hours: Monday ... A general working knowledge of traffic incident management is a plus. * Military, Police or ...

Shipping Helper

Ames, IA

$18 - $18.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

General labor experience in production, shipping, and receiving. * Ability to lift up to 50 lbs ... We offer on-the-job training to help you succeed and grow in your role. Work Environment Work in a ...

Helper - Insulation

Clinton, IA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

A Helpers is responsible for performing general non-craft labor as assigned. Responsibilities: * Promote, demonstrate and instill Brock's Bsafe and Bbest culture in all aspects of the business

Residential Plumbing Helper

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsibilities include maintaining a safe and clean job site, delivering materials and tools, and helping with general labor. This is an entry-level position ideal for individuals interested in ...

Residential Plumbing Helper

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsibilities include maintaining a safe and clean job site, delivering materials and tools, and helping with general labor. This is an entry-level position ideal for individuals interested in ...

Kitchen Install Helper

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

... helpers. We are expanding rapidly throughout the Midwest and East Coast and are looking for A-Team ... We are searching for individuals who have basic remodeling or general construction experience. The ...

Kitchen Install Helper

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

... helpers. We are expanding rapidly throughout the Midwest and East Coast and are looking for A-Team ... We are searching for individuals who have basic remodeling or general construction experience. The ...

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General Helper information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do general helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for general helper in Iowa is $15.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a general helper?

General Helpers are workers who assist with a variety of tasks in workplaces such as warehouses, construction sites, factories, or offices. They typically perform duties like cleaning, moving materials, loading and unloading items, and providing support to skilled workers and supervisors. General Helpers are valuable team members because they ensure operations run smoothly by taking on essential but non-specialized tasks. Their responsibilities can vary widely depending on the industry and employer needs.

What are common challenges faced by general helpers?

General Helpers often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks simultaneously and adapting quickly to changing work priorities. The work can be physically demanding, requiring stamina and attention to safety protocols, especially in environments like warehouses or construction sites. Communication is also key, as General Helpers frequently coordinate with various team members and supervisors to ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Developing problem-solving skills and maintaining a positive attitude can help General Helpers navigate these challenges successfully.

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

To thrive as a General Helper, you need basic physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, safety equipment, and sometimes inventory management systems is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and a positive attitude are standout soft skills in this position. These skills ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently, supporting smooth operations in various work environments.

What is the difference between General Helper vs Construction Laborer?

AspectGeneral HelperConstruction Laborer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; OSHA safety training often required
Work EnvironmentVarious industries, including retail, warehouse, and construction supportConstruction sites, outdoor and indoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across multiple industries for general support tasksPrimarily in construction projects, building sites
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level support roles in constructionDetails about physically demanding construction support jobs

The main difference between a General Helper and a Construction Laborer lies in their work scope and environment. General Helpers often work across various industries providing general support, while Construction Laborers focus specifically on physically demanding tasks on construction sites. Both roles typically require similar credentials and safety training, but their work settings and industry usage differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of General jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of General jobs in Iowa are:

What job categories do people searching General Helper jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for General Helper jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for General Helper jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most General Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various General Helper job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,114 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Manufacturing - General Maintenance Helper

EFCO Forming and Shoring Solutions

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Are you a construction-minded professional with a passion for building and making a lasting impact in the industry? At EFCO, we don't just build concrete structures, we build careers, partnerships, and opportunities. Established in 1934, we deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions that make construction safer and more efficient.
Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, EFCO is a growing, people-focused company committed to Quality, Integrity, Innovation, and Super Service. From engineering and design to manufacturing and field support, we help customers turn vision into reality while achieving the Lowest In-Place Concrete Cost (LIPCC).
Purpose
Support EFCO maintenance operations by assisting with routine repairs, equipment upkeep, and facility readiness. Contribute to operational efficiency by maintaining a clean, safe, and functional work environment.
EFCO Culture & Safety Statement
Act with Integrity by demonstrating honesty, responsibility, trustworthiness, and respect in all actions. Strive for Quality through continuous improvement and data-driven decision-making. Embrace Innovation by being self-aware, collaborative, and curious. Deliver Super Service by creating value and consistently exceeding customer expectations.
At EFCO, the health and safety of our team members, visitors, and contractors is an overriding priority and EFCO is committed to promoting a safe and healthy work environment by requiring all team members to participate in environmental, safety, and health program activities. This includes always wearing required personal protective equipment; participating in safety training; engaging in and supporting safety activities including reporting hazards, unsafe work practices & near misses, incidents involving property damage, and any / all injuries - no matter how minor - immediately to their supervisor or manager.
Key Responsibilities
Assist Maintenance Operations (30%)
Support maintenance technicians during repairs, installations, and service routines to improve equipment performance and extend asset lifespan. Help gather tools, set up work areas, and transport parts or equipment as needed.
Perform Preventative Maintenance (20%)
Carry out routine upkeep on facility, shop equipment, and grounds. Clean and inspect equipment like cranes, forklifts, and other production machines.
Develop a Safe and Organized Work Environment (15%)
Maintain clean, well-organized workspaces and tool storage areas to reduce hazards and enhance team productivity.
Operate Tools and Equipment Safely and Effectively (15%)
Utilize hand tools, power tools, and material handling equipment (e.g., pallet jacks, forklifts, cranes) in accordance with safety protocols to minimize risk and improve task efficiency.
Document Work to Improve Maintenance Tracking (10%)
Accurately complete work orders, logs, and checklists to support data-driven decisions and strengthen maintenance planning.
Support Safety Standards and Compliance (10%)
Participate in audits, document findings, and ensure completed jobs align with EFCO standards and procedures. Follow all safety rules, engage in safety initiatives, and promptly report unsafe conditions.
Additional duties may be assigned to meet organizational goals and priorities. Duties and responsibilities, as required by business necessity, may be added, deleted, or changed at any time at the discretion of management, formally or informally, either verbally or in writing.
Qualifications
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Experience: Must pass a general mechanical aptitude test. Ability to read imperial and metric tape measures.

Core Competencies
  • Technical Skills: Proficiently uses job-specific tools, systems, and procedures to perform tasks effectively.
  • Professionalism: Demonstrates reliability, accountability, and a respectful approach to all work and interactions.
  • Judgment: Makes sound decisions by evaluating facts, risks, and potential outcomes.
  • Adaptability: Adjusts quickly and effectively to changing circumstances, priorities, and feedback.
  • Collaboration: Works well with others toward shared goals, contributing constructively to team efforts.

EFCO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants for employment will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical Demands
Level II Work: Exerting up to 50 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or 25 lbs. of force frequently, and/or 10 lbs. of force constantly to move objects.
To ensure a safe work environment while meeting the physical demands of the job you must be able to perform the following physical and mental tasks with or with or without a reasonable accommodation:
  • Climbing: Rarely
  • Hearing & Speaking: Continuously.
  • Vision: Continuously
  • Balancing: Occasionally to Frequently, depending on the work environment.
  • Standing: Frequently to Continuously
  • Sitting: Rarely to Continuously
  • Walking: Frequently
  • Forward Bend in Standing: Occasionally to Frequently
  • Rotation in Standing: Occasionally
  • Squatting: Occasionally to Frequently
  • Kneeling: Occasionally to Frequently
  • Stooping: Occasionally to Frequently
  • Static postures: Occasionally to Frequently
  • Right-hand Left-hand Coordination: Continuous
  • Reaching: Frequently
  • Crawling: Occasionally
  • Crouching: Occasionally to Frequently
  • Repetitive Motions- Shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, fingers: Continuously
  • Elevated work: Crown level 5 lbs up to 2 mins occasionally, and rarely 20 lbs up to 20 secs
  • Floor to waist vertical lift: Frequently 25 lbs, occasionally up to 50 lbs
  • Waist to crown vertical lift: Frequently 25 lbs, occasionally up to 50 lbs
  • Horizontal carry: Frequently 25 lbs, Occasionally up to 50 lbs for 25 feet
  • One hand carry: Frequently 25 lbs, Occasionally up to 50 lbs for 25 feet
  • Push horizontally: Frequently 25 lbs, Occasionally 50 lbs
  • Pull horizontally: Frequently 25 lbs, Occasionally 50 lbs
  • One hand pull right hand: Frequently 25 lbs, Occasionally 50 lbs for 20 ft
  • One hand pull left hand: Frequently 25 lbs, Occasionally 50 lbs for 20 ft
  • Left hand repetitive coupling: Frequently 65 lbs, Occasionally up to 80 lbs
  • Right hand repetitive coupling: Frequently 65 lbs, Occasionally up to 80 lbs
  • Expertise in:
    • Ability to regularly perform all job functions at company office or worksite
    • Ability to withstand environmental conditions such as extreme heat or cold, grass, wind, sand, fumes, odors, gases, noises. Etc.
    • Ability to wear personal protective equipment as required

Working Arrangement
  • This role will work 100% onsite at our Des Moines, IA location.

The company reserves the right to modify, update, change and/or make corrections to this job description, at the sole discretion of senior leadership, at any time during the employee's employment term, at the sole discretion of management.
Benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Health Savings Account
  • Life and AD&D insurance
  • 401k options
  • PTO
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • 10 paid holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program

EFCO Culture and Safety
Act with INTEGRITY by demonstrating honesty, responsibility, trustworthiness, and respect in all actions. Strive for QUALITY through continuous improvement and data-driven decision-making. Embrace INNOVATION by being self-aware, collaborative, and curious. Deliver SUPER SERVICE by creating value and consistently exceeding customer expectations.
At EFCO, the health and safety of our team members, visitors, and contractors is an overriding priority and EFCO is committed to promoting a safe and healthy work environment by requiring all team members to participate in environmental, safety, and health program activities. This includes always wearing required personal protective equipment; participating in safety training; engaging in and supporting safety activities including reporting hazards, unsafe work practices & near misses, incidents involving property damage, and any/all injuries - no matter how minor - immediately to their supervisor or manager.
EFCO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants for employment will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
The company reserves the right to modify, update, change and/or make corrections to this job description, at the sole discretion of senior leadership, at any time during the employee's employment term, at the sole discretion of management.
Quality | Integrity | Innovation | Super Service