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Head Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Now Hiring a Department Head Burlington, IA Silgan Containers is seeking a Department Head to join ... Safety, Quality, Standard Operating Requirements, Employee Relations, and Lean Manufacturing. This ...

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This role partners closely with the Founder & CEO, President & COO, and Senior Leadership Team to align financial performance with strategic priorities across all business verticals. The Head of ...

Forklift Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$28.81/hr

What you'll need to succeed as a Forklift Operator at XPO Get a feel for the role. Watch this short ... Reach (including above your head), bend, climb, push, pull, twist, squat and kneel as necessary ...

Forklift Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$28.81/hr

What you'll need to succeed as a Forklift Operator at XPO Get a feel for the role. Watch this short ... Reach (including above your head), bend, climb, push, pull, twist, squat and kneel as necessary ...

Forklift Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$28.81/hr

What you'll need to succeed as a Forklift Operator at XPO Get a feel for the role. Watch this short ... Reach (including above your head), bend, climb, push, pull, twist, squat and kneel as necessary ...

The Head of Operations will also serve as the primary factory interface for new product ... operating cadence Build and maintain production plans, capacity models, staffing plans, and ...

The Head of Operations will also serve as the primary factory interface for new product ... site operating performance across safety, quality, delivery, cost, productivity, and schedule ...

What you'll need to succeed as a Forklift Operator at XPO Get a feel for the role. Watch this short ... Reach (including above your head), bend, climb, push, pull, twist, squat and kneel as necessary ...

What you'll need to succeed as a Forklift Operator at XPO Get a feel for the role. Watch this short ... Reach (including above your head), bend, climb, push, pull, twist, squat and kneel as necessary ...

What you'll need to succeed as a Forklift Operator at XPO Get a feel for the role. Watch this short ... Reach (including above your head), bend, climb, push, pull, twist, squat and kneel as necessary ...

Plant Operator

Wever, IA · On-site

$52 - $75/hr

In this role, the Operator controls equipment systems that process chemical substances into ... Turn numerous ball valves at rapid pace at knee level and above head height. * Work in extreme ...

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Head Operator information

What is a head operator?

Head Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the operation of machinery, equipment, or industrial processes in facilities such as factories, plants, or construction sites. They supervise other operators, ensure safe and efficient workflows, and troubleshoot any issues that arise during operations. Head Operators also coordinate maintenance, enforce safety regulations, and may be involved in training new staff or implementing process improvements. Their leadership ensures that production goals are met while maintaining quality and safety standards.

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

To excel as a Head Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of operational processes, leadership abilities, and experience in the relevant industry, often supported by vocational training or technical certifications. Familiarity with machinery controls, SCADA systems, safety protocols, and maintenance management software is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and team management skills help drive efficiency and ensure safety. These competencies are crucial for overseeing smooth operations, minimizing downtime, and maintaining compliance with industry regulations.

What are some typical challenges faced by a head operator in managing production teams, and how can they be effectively addressed?

As a Head Operator, common challenges include maintaining consistent production quality, addressing equipment malfunctions promptly, and ensuring effective communication across shifts. Managing a diverse team also requires balancing individual strengths while fostering a collaborative environment. Proactive maintenance scheduling, regular team briefings, and ongoing training initiatives help mitigate these challenges and keep operations running smoothly.

What is the difference between Head Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectHead OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in equipment operation and safety trainingUsually needs a high school diploma and on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentSupervises multiple machines or production lines in manufacturing or processing plantsOperates specific machinery in factories, plants, or construction sites
Industry UsageCommonly found in manufacturing, oil & gas, and processing industriesWidespread across manufacturing, construction, and industrial sectors

The Head Operator oversees multiple machines and manages operational processes, requiring additional certifications and leadership skills. In contrast, the Machine Operator focuses on operating specific equipment with less supervisory responsibility. Both roles are essential in industrial settings, but the Head Operator has a broader scope of responsibilities and qualifications.

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

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Head Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Head Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Head Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Head Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Head Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Head Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Head Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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Job description

Now Hiring a Department Head

Burlington, IA

Silgan Containers is seeking a Department Head to join our manufacturing leadership team in Burlington, IA. In this role, you will lead a department within our high-speed manufacturing operation while driving performance in: Safety, Quality, Standard Operating Requirements, Employee Relations, and Lean Manufacturing.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced manufacturing leader who enjoys developing teams, improving operational performance, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and making a direct impact on plant results. You will work closely with plant leadership, management staff, and hourly employees to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective production of high-quality products.

What We Offer You:

  • Excellent salary based on experience, education, skills, and market conditions

  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

  • Additional benefits include pet insurance, telemedicine, wellness programs, and more

  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with dollar-for-dollar company match

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Annual merit-based pay increases

  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities

  • Career growth opportunities within a leading manufacturing organization

What You'll Do:

  • Lead and support daily manufacturing operations while maintaining a strong safety culture

  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance

  • Review production and quality reports, monitor key performance metrics, and take corrective action as needed

  • Investigate operational issues and implement solutions to improve efficiency and product quality

  • Supervise, coach, and develop management and production personnel

  • Administer company policies, procedures, and labor agreement requirements

  • Monitor labor and material utilization to ensure resources remain within established standards and budgets

  • Assist with the development and management of departmental and plant operating budgets

What We Need From You:

  • High school diploma, trade school certification, or equivalent combination of education and relevant manufacturing experience

  • 5 or more years of leadership experience in a high-speed manufacturing environment

  • Proven ability to lead teams and drive operational results

  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, quality systems, and continuous improvement methodologies

  • Knowledge of Statistical Process Control and manufacturing performance metrics

  • Experience interpreting production data, quality reports, and operating results

Who We Are:

Silgan Containers is the largest subsidiary of Silgan Holdings and a leading manufacturer of metal food packaging in North America. Every day, our products help safely package many of the food items found in homes across the country.

At Silgan, we are committed to operational excellence, employee development, and sustainability. We invest in our people, support career growth, and continue to reduce our environmental footprint through responsible manufacturing practices and recyclable packaging solutions.

Join our team as a Department Head where your leadership, manufacturing expertise, employee development, and continuous improvement mindset help drive safety, quality, operational excellence, and plant performance

LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.

All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.

Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an "at-will" basis.

Silgan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or the presence of a disability, which would not prevent the performance of essential job duties with, or without reasonable accommodation of any other protective status.

Silgan is a drug-free workplace.