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Grain Handler Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Ag Processing

Material Handler

Emmetsburg, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Material Handler, you'll learn the foundation of our operation by safely unloading railcars ... Working around grain dust and industrial equipment * Climbing railcars, ladders, stairs up to 120 ...

AgState

Operations Technician

Alta, IA · On-site

Measure grain inventory as needed. * Prepare grain rail cars and load cars according to ... Have a valid or the ability to obtains a Class A CDL, Commercial applicator license and/or Handler ...

AgState

Operations Technician

Marathon, IA · On-site

Measure grain inventory as needed. * Prepare grain rail cars and load cars according to ... Have a valid or the ability to obtains a Class A CDL, Commercial applicator license and/or Handler ...

AgState

Operations Technician

Emmetsburg, IA · On-site

Measure grain inventory as needed. * Prepare grain rail cars and load cars according to ... Have a valid or the ability to obtains a Class A CDL, Commercial applicator license and/or Handler ...

AgState

Operations Technician

Kingsley, IA · On-site

Measure grain inventory as needed. * Prepare grain rail cars and load cars according to ... Handler's license within 30 days of employment * Ability to work overtime as required.

AgState

Operations Technician

Emmetsburg, IA · On-site

Measure grain inventory as needed. * Prepare grain rail cars and load cars according to ... Have a valid or the ability to obtains a Class A CDL, Commercial applicator license and/or Handler ...

AgState

Operations Technician

Albert City, IA · On-site

Measure grain inventory as needed. * Prepare grain rail cars and load cars according to ... Chemical Handler's license - 1A, 1B, and 1C - beneficial but not required - will train to obtain ...

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Grain Handler information

See Iowa salary details

$4

$14

How much do grain handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for grain handler in Iowa is $14.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $14.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grain handler?

Grain handlers are professionals responsible for the receiving, storing, transferring, and shipping of grain at facilities such as elevators, terminals, and processing plants. They operate equipment like conveyors, elevators, and loaders to move grain safely and efficiently. Grain handlers also inspect grain for quality, monitor storage conditions, and help maintain facility cleanliness to prevent contamination. Their work is crucial to ensuring that harvested grain is properly managed and delivered to markets or processors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a grain handler?

To thrive as a Grain Handler, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and knowledge of grain quality standards, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grain handling equipment, conveyor systems, and safety regulations is essential, and certifications in forklift operation or OSHA safety are often beneficial. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and reliability help ensure smooth operations and safe working conditions. These qualifications are vital for maintaining product quality, safety, and efficient workflow in grain storage and transport facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by grain handlers on a daily basis?

Grain handlers often encounter challenges such as working in variable weather conditions, managing heavy or repetitive lifting, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent accidents or grain spoilage. Additionally, they must remain vigilant in operating machinery and handling large volumes of grain efficiently, especially during peak harvest seasons. Effective communication with team members and attention to detail are crucial to maintaining workflow and quality standards in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Grain Handler vs Grain Elevator Worker?

AspectGrain HandlerGrain Elevator Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety certifications often requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety and equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentGrain storage facilities, loading/unloading areasGrain elevators, storage silos, processing plants
Job DutiesLoading, unloading, and moving grain; operating machineryManaging grain storage, overseeing loading/unloading, maintaining equipment

Both roles involve working in grain storage environments and require safety certifications. While Grain Handlers focus on loading and unloading grain, Grain Elevator Workers often have broader responsibilities including managing storage and overseeing operations. The roles are closely related, with overlapping skills and work settings, making them common points of comparison for job seekers in the grain industry.

How much does a grain handler make?

The average salary for a grain handler is around $15 to $20 per hour, which equates to approximately $31,000 to $41,000 annually for full-time work. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of handling equipment like conveyors and grain dryers.

What does a grain handler do?

A grain handler is responsible for loading, unloading, and moving grain at storage facilities or processing plants. They operate equipment such as conveyors, grain carts, and loaders, and often work outdoors in varying weather conditions. Basic safety training and knowledge of equipment are important for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Grain Handler jobs in IA?

For Grain Handler jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Grain Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grain Handler job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $29,586 per year, or $14.2 per hour.

Material Handler

Emmetsburg, IA • On-site

Ag Processing
1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Ag Processingexternal

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

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

Ag Processing rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Looking for more than just a job? Start a career with long-term growth, strong pay progression, and real advancement opportunities.
Ag Processing Inc (AGP) is seeking motivated individuals who want to build a future in a stable, essential industry. No experience is required - we provide the training. What matters most is reliability, initiative, and a willingness to learn.
As a Material Handler, you'll learn the foundation of our operation by safely unloading railcars and trucks while working alongside experienced team members. You'll also gain hands-on experience operating industrial equipment and performing quality control tasks that help keep our operation running safely and efficiently.
This role is often the first step toward becoming an Operator, Lead, or Supervisor.
What You'll Learn & Do

  • Unload tank railcars and trucks safely and efficiently
  • Perform quality control testing on materials
  • Operate industrial equipment including:
    • Forklifts
    • Pallet jacks
    • Drive switches
    • Locomotive/track mobile engines
    • Other material handling equipment
  • Follow plant safety procedures and operational policies
  • Work closely with team members to support daily operations
What We're Looking For
We're looking for individuals who:
  • Take initiative and work efficiently
  • Are dependable and motivated to perform at a high level
  • Have a strong attention to detail
  • Work well as part of a team
  • Are willing to learn new skills and responsibilities
  • Can understand and follow rules, procedures, and safety policies
  • Have basic reading, math, and communication skills
Minimum Requirements
  • At least 18 years old
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to safely operate material handling equipment (training provided)
  • Ability to:
    • Carry 50 pounds
    • Lift up to 65 pounds
    • Push/pull up to 120 pounds
Work Environment
This is a hands-on industrial position. Candidates should be comfortable:
  • Working outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Working around grain dust and industrial equipment
  • Climbing railcars, ladders, stairs up to 120 feet high
  • Working rotating 10-12 hour shifts including days, nights, weekends, and holidays
Typical schedule:
  • Rotating swing shifts (example: 7a-7p / 7p-7a)
  • Multiple consecutive workdays followed by multiple days off
Career Growth Opportunities
Many of our Operators and Supervisors started in entry-level positions like this one. Employees who demonstrate initiative, reliability, and leadership can advance into:
  • Operator roles
  • Specialized equipment operations
  • Maintenance support roles
  • Leadership and supervisory positions
Employees who demonstrate strong performance and attendance often advance into Operator positions within 12-24 months.
Backgrounds That Translate Well
People with experience in these areas often succeed in this role:
Farm hand • warehouse • manufacturing • construction • maintenance • lawn care • machine operation • grain handling • labor • utilities
Why Employees Stay
We offer industry-leading benefits and long-term stability, including:
  • Competitive pay with advancement opportunities
  • Clothing and boot allowance
  • 401(k) retirement plan (Roth and Traditional options) with a company match
  • 100% employer-funded pension plan
  • No-wait medical benefits
  • Paid training and career development
  • Long term disability insurance & salary continuation
  • Company paid life insurance
  • Wellness program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Adoption assistance
  • Paid time off

Who We Are
Ag Processing Inc (AGP) is a cooperative founded in 1983 that processes, sells and transports soybeans, grains, and related products. Our company has become one of the largest soybean processing cooperatives in the world and our plants process soybeans that can be used in a variety of products such as animal feed, vegetable oil, and fuels.

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