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Line Associate Jobs in Cherokee, IA (NOW HIRING)

Line Associate information

See Cherokee, IA salary details

$9

$19

$43

How much do line associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for line associate in Cherokee, IA is $19.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a line associate?

Line Associates are workers who perform tasks on a production or assembly line in factories or manufacturing plants. Their responsibilities typically include assembling products, inspecting items for quality, packaging goods, and ensuring that production targets and safety standards are met. Line Associates often work as part of a team, following specific instructions and processes to keep the production line running smoothly. This job usually requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to stand for extended periods. Training is often provided on the job, and positions may be entry-level or require prior manufacturing experience.

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

To thrive as a Line Associate, you need strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow standardized procedures, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with basic manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes barcode scanning or inventory systems is typically required. Teamwork, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure production efficiency, product quality, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by line associates in a manufacturing environment, and how can they be addressed?

Line Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent speed and quality during repetitive tasks, adapting to changes in production schedules, and ensuring safety in a fast-paced environment. These can be addressed through thorough onboarding, clear communication with supervisors, and ongoing training on equipment and safety protocols. Collaborating with team members and staying attentive to workflow adjustments can also help Line Associates adapt more easily and maintain productivity.

What is the difference between Line Associate vs Machine Operator?

AspectLine AssociateMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or production line, fast-pacedManufacturing, operating specific machinery
Industry UsageCommon in retail, food production, manufacturingPrimarily in manufacturing, industrial settings
Job FocusAssisting in assembly, packaging, or quality checksOperating and maintaining machinery

While both roles are integral to manufacturing and production environments, a Line Associate typically supports assembly and packaging tasks, whereas a Machine Operator specializes in operating specific machinery. The roles often overlap in work environment and required credentials, but Machine Operators usually require technical skills related to machinery operation.

What cities near Cherokee, IA are hiring for Line Associate jobs?

Cities near Cherokee, IA with the most Line Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Line Associate job openings in Cherokee, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,181 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Crisis Response Staff

Plains Area Mental Health, Inc

Cherokee, IA • On-site

$23.69 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Plains Area Mental Health, Inc. is a Community Mental Health Center with multiple locations in Northwest Iowa. Our mission is to provide affordable quality mental health services to the people of the communities we serve, respecting each individual’s dignity, worth, and potential for growth. Ensuring an environment of confidentiality and dedication – we put our people first.

PAMHC is seeking full-time Crisis Response Staff for our Crisis Team in Cherokee. Position is for 40 hours a week. On Call as needed. Travel is required.

Salary Range: $23.69 up to $25.75

Benefits
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • PTO – 160 Hours first year
  • Double time on holidays worked
  • 401k retirement plan – 5% company match
  • Life insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • Approved sites for NHSC loan repayment
Position Summary

Crisis Response Staff are responsible for crisis stabilization residential services (Turning Point), mobile response (Mobile Crisis Assessment Team), community-based crisis stabilization services and the crisis line emergency services. These services are provided on a 24-hour basis seven days per week. They provide short term crisis stabilization residential services in a home-like atmosphere to individuals who are 18 years of age or older, meet mental health crisis criteria and are not in need of inpatient mental health services. Mobile Crisis Assessment Treatment team (MCAT) provide mental health crisis services when called to individuals in the community. Crisis Stabilization Community-Based Services will provide short term crisis stabilization in the community where they live, to individuals who are youth aged 18 and under or adults aged 18 or older, meeting mental health crisis criteria and are not in need of inpatient mental health services. Crisis Line Emergency Services will provide phone-based assessment, monitor, provide interventions and/or phone-based stabilization for mental and emotional health emergencies to individuals in need of the agency crisis line.

Requirements

Minimum of one of the following is required:

  • Mental Health Professional as defined in Iowa Code section 228.1
  • Bachelor’s degree with 30 semester hours or equivalent in a Human Services field (including, but not limited to, Psychology, Social Work, Nursing, Education) and a minimum of one year experience in behavioral or mental health services.
  • Law Enforcement Officer with a minimum of two years experience in the law enforcement field.
  • Emergency Medical Technician with a minimum of two years experience in the EMT field.
  • Peer Support Specialist, Family Support Peer Specialist or Registered Nurse with a minimum of one year experience in behavioral or mental health services.
  • Bachelor’s degree in a non-human services-related field, associate degree, or high school diploma (or equivalency) with a minimum of two years experience in behavioral or mental health services, and 30 hours of crisis and mental health in-service training (in addition to the required 30 hours of department-approved training)
  • Computer Skills
  • Valid Driver’s License and Insurance
Preferred Qualifications

Bilingual a plus, but not required

How to Apply:

Follow this link https://www.plainsareamentalhealth.org/careers/application/ to our employment application.


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