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Laborer Entry Level Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Assembly Employee

Waverly, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

EXPERIENCE - Entry-level position - job assignment will be commensurate with the level of ... Accurately record work in process, job details, labor and attendance information utilizing ERP and ...

Assembly Employee

Waverly, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

EXPERIENCE - Entry-level position - job assignment will be commensurate with the level of ... Accurately record work in process, job details, labor and attendance information utilizing ERP and ...

Maintenance Technician 1

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$28.75 - $31.75/hr

These include labor markets and in some instancesmay include education, work experience and ... This is an entry-level position in the technician role with promotion potential to Maintenance ...

Laborer Entry Level information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$10

$18

$26

How much do laborer entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for laborer entry level in Waterloo, IA is $18.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a laborer entry level?

Laborer Entry Level positions are jobs that involve basic physical tasks on construction sites, warehouses, factories, or similar environments. These roles typically require little to no prior experience and focus on manual labor such as loading and unloading materials, cleaning, assisting skilled workers, and following safety guidelines. Entry-level laborers are often supervised closely and may receive on-the-job training to develop skills needed for advancement. Physical fitness, reliability, and a willingness to learn are important qualities for success in these positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a laborer entry level?

To thrive as a Laborer Entry Level, you need physical stamina, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, power equipment, and workplace safety guidelines is typically required. Dependability, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and accurately in physically demanding and fast-paced environments.

What are some common challenges entry-level laborers face when starting out, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level laborers often encounter challenges such as physically demanding tasks, adapting to fast-paced environments, and learning to use new tools or machinery safely. It's normal to experience some fatigue or uncertainty at first, but staying proactive about safety training, asking questions, and seeking guidance from experienced coworkers can help. Building physical stamina gradually and maintaining good communication with supervisors are also effective strategies to overcome these initial hurdles and become more confident in the role.

What is the difference between Laborer Entry Level vs Construction Worker?

AspectLaborer Entry LevelConstruction Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; no formal certifications typically requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; may have OSHA safety certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial settings, outdoor environmentsConstruction sites, outdoor and indoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in construction, landscaping, and industrial sectorsPrimarily in construction, renovation, and infrastructure projects
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level roles in constructionRelated to labor roles in construction projects

Laborer Entry Level and Construction Worker roles share similar environments and industry usage, often requiring minimal formal credentials. The main difference lies in job titles used by employers, with 'Construction Worker' sometimes indicating a more specific role within construction projects. Both roles serve as entry points into the construction industry, focusing on manual labor and site assistance.

Do you need experience to be a laborer entry level?

Laborer entry-level positions typically do not require prior experience, as they are designed for individuals new to the field. Employers often provide on-the-job training and may look for basic physical fitness and a willingness to learn. Having a high school diploma or equivalent can be beneficial but is not always mandatory.

What are the most commonly searched types of Laborer jobs in Waterloo, IA?

The most popular types of Laborer jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Laborer Entry Level jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Laborer Entry Level job openings:

Infographic showing various Laborer Entry Level job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,106 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

RFA Engineering

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry-level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer
As a Manufacturing Engineer you will apply Lean Manufacturing methodologies to help improve efficiency, reduce costs and improve quality throughout the manufacturing process. The selected individual will work on a cross-functional team supporting the manufacturing and assembly operations for off-highway equipment.
Job Description
  • Establish routings, methods, processes, and layouts for assembly line.
  • Provide costs, methods documentation, quality plans and labor standards for current/new products.
  • Provide support and troubleshooting for current production.
  • Investigate, gather and analyze data and implement solutions.
  • Continuous improvements in cost, quality, safety and ergonomics
  • Develop and implement plans to support lean manufacturing.
  • Improve material flow and material presentation.
  • Prepare charts, graphs, and diagrams to illustrate workflow, routing, floor layouts, material handling, and machine utilization.
  • Lead time studies for capacity, energy, productivity and efficiency

Requirements
  • Bachelor's of Science in Engineering or Industrial Technology.
  • Demonstrates a strong mechanical aptitude through work experience or hobbies.
  • Problem solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Familiar with Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing tools and methodologies.
  • Must be a self-starter, good communication skills, able to thrive in a collaborative environment.
  • Must have a valid Driver's License.

Desired Experience
  • Experience in a production environment working with cross functional teams.
  • Experience with manufacturing, fabrication, or assembly operations.
  • Knowledge of Root Cause Analysis.
  • Database Management

Salary Range: $65,000-$75,000 Commensurate with experience
Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.