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Handler Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler

Newton, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Thanks to our material handlers, customer orders can be fulfilled and moved quickly. Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Operates forklifts, pallet jacks, and other machinery to move items, or ...

Material Handler

Newton, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

We are currently looking for Material Handlers to join the Mittera family where ideas are valued, and internal mobility is promoted! In our production facilities, Material Handlers find products on ...

Material Handler

Newton, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

We are currently looking for Material Handlers to join the Mittera family where ideas are valued, and internal mobility is promoted! In our production facilities, Material Handlers find products on ...

Freight Handler (11am-8pm) Department: Des Moines IA Job Status: Non-Exempt Compensation: Direct Reports: No COMPANY OVERVIEW CrossCountry Freight Solutions (CCFS) is an exceptional company with a ...

Material Handler

Carlisle, IA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Material Handler | $24-26 per hour | 1st Shift: Monday-Friday | 6:00 AM - 4:30 PM or 3rd Shift: Monday Night-Thursday Night | 6:00 PM - 6:00 AM / Temp to Hire What Matters Most * Competitive Pay of ...

Material Handler

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$28.48/hr

Assists in the training of new Material Handlers and ongoing training of current employees. * Communicates material handling/processing information to coworkers in a timely manner to ensure efficient ...

Assists in the training of new Material Handlers and ongoing training of current employees. * Communicates material handling/processing information to coworkers in a timely manner to ensure efficient ...

Material Handler

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$28.48/hr

Assists in the training of new Material Handlers and ongoing training of current employees. * Communicates material handling/processing information to coworkers in a timely manner to ensure efficient ...

Freight Handler

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$600 - $800/wk

ANKENY IA Freight Handler $600-$800 per week/paid weekly People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance culture. We build strong relationships, challenge the status quo, work hard to ...

ANKENY IA Freight Handler $600-$800 per week/paid weekly People want to work at Capstone because of our high-performance culture. We build strong relationships, challenge the status quo, work hard to ...

Be Seen First

Contract to Full-Time (US Citizens or Authorized Workers Only.) Now Hiring for Multiple Material Handler Positions! We are currently hiring dependable, motivated individuals to join a growing ...

Material Handler As a Material Handler, you will be responsible for the reconditioning of heat exchange plates. This involves removing old rubber gaskets, power washing the plates, testing for cracks ...

Material Handler As a Material Handler, you will be responsible for pulling customer orders based on invoices and tickets. You will assist the burn table operator in pulling product for orders and be ...

Material Handler

Ames, IA · On-site

$17.50/hr

The Material Handler's responsibility is to ensure that the Service PLUS Center materials are accurately received, stored, picked, packed, and shipped to customer specifications while meeting our ...

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Handler information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$5

$19

$27

How much do handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for handler in Des Moines, IA is $19.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $25.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a handler?

Handlers are professionals responsible for managing, moving, or caring for specific items, animals, or materials, depending on the industry. For example, in logistics, a handler may be in charge of sorting and transporting packages, while in animal care, a handler works with animals to ensure their safety and well-being. Handlers often work in environments like airports, warehouses, or with security teams, and their duties require attention to detail, physical fitness, and sometimes specialized training. The role is critical in ensuring smooth operations and the safe handling of goods or animals.

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

To thrive as a Handler, you generally need physical stamina, attention to detail, and experience in safe material handling, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems, forklifts, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and time management skills help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial to ensure efficient, safe, and accurate processing and movement of goods within various logistics or warehouse environments.

How does a handler typically coordinate with other team members to ensure efficient workflow?

Handlers often work closely with logistics coordinators, warehouse staff, and drivers to streamline the movement of goods and materials. Clear communication and timely updates are essential, as Handlers must verify inventory, track shipments, and address any discrepancies quickly. Collaboration tools and regular team meetings help everyone stay aligned on priorities and deadlines, making teamwork a crucial aspect of this role.

What is the difference between Handler vs Warehouse Worker?

AspectHandlerWarehouse Worker
Required CredentialsBasic certifications, training in safety and handling proceduresSame as Handler, often includes forklift certification
Work EnvironmentLogistics centers, shipping docks, warehousesWarehouses, distribution centers, storage facilities
Employer & Industry UsageLogistics companies, shipping firms, manufacturingRetail, manufacturing, distribution companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Handlers and warehouse workers often share similar environments and credentials, but handlers typically focus on managing and securing items during transit or storage, while warehouse workers handle the physical movement and organization of goods within a warehouse.

What are popular job titles related to Handler jobs in Des Moines, IA?

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

Infographic showing various Handler job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,476 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Description

We are currently looking for Material Handlers to join the Mittera family where ideas are valued, and internal mobility is promoted! In our production facilities, Material Handlers find products on shelves, wrap or package them appropriately, and place them on delivery trucks; they may also take products off of trucks and put them on shelves. Thanks to our material handlers, customer orders can be fulfilled and moved quickly. 


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operates forklifts, pallet jacks, and other machinery to move items, or signals machine operators to move materials onto and off trucks, ships, and loading docks
  • Reads and understands the job ticket and other special instructions before beginning the assigned job
  • Obtains and records accurate counts of finished products, goods, and materials to be shipped and for those received
  • Packs materials in a manner that will ensure delivery without damage, following job jacket and/or customer packing specifications
  • Identifies contents and number of pieces of shipments on all boxes, cartons, or skids, using proper labeling methods
  • Checks accuracy of all shipping and receiving documents
  • Utilizing the shipping system to process shipments, including packages and skids
  • Scheduling delivery trucks for on-time shipments
  • Prepare the stacking area (skids, cardboard and boxes).
  • All other duties as assigned



Requirements

Required Skills and Abilities


  • High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED)
  • 1 - 3 years of previous material management experience preferred
  • Safely operate a forklift, pallet jack, and any other lift equipment required for the job (following appropriate training)
  • Full comprehension in reading work instructions and business memos
  • Effective communications skills with all levels within the organization
  • Ability to use basic math skills, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, measurements and critical thinking, to solve practical problems
  • Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
  • Must have the ability to work effectively in stressful situations and meet stringent deadlines
  • Be organized and able to plan, prioritize and follow through on projects assigned with minimal supervision
  • Has basic computer skills 



Physical Requirements


  • Requires use of proper body mechanics with pushing, pulling, reaching, lifting, squatting, kneeling and bending
  • Pushing/pulling and lifting up to 50 lbs
  • Requires fine motor hand and arm movement, manual dexterity and coordination
  • Requires near visual acuity
  • Requires working around and operating departmental equipment
  • Must be able to access and navigate each department in the facility
  • Requires the ability to function in a professional manner under stressful circumstances


 Work Environmental FactorsWhile performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles. The employee is occasionally exposed to hazardous materials. A production employee regularly works near moving mechanical parts. 
Mittera is a leading-edge company that provides commercial and digital printing, finishing, graphic design, data analytics, direct mail processing, and fulfillment services. Mittera's full-service approach connects data-driven revelations, bar-raising creative, and expertly printed materials to give our customers' brand recognition it deserves. Competitive compensation and robust benefits plans are offered. Benefits include:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life and AD&D Policies
  • Short and Long-Term Disability
  • 401K with Company Match
  • Paid Time Off 
  • Paid Volunteer Time OfF

Mittera is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. All applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
Visit us today at mittera.com or stop by and fill out an application at Mittera location near you!