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Operations Trainee Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Silgan

IA · On-site

Silgan Containers is seeking a Production Management Development Trainee in Fort Dodge, IA Join ... Two or more years of experience in manufacturing or production operations, including setup ...

Furniture Row

Sales / Management Trainee

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$35K - $55K/yr

SALES/ MANAGEMENT TRAINEES (no previous exp. necessary - we will train you!) Looking for people who ... in all aspects of sales, operations, and inventory. They must also display leadership and ...

Furniture Row

Sales / Management Trainee

Davenport, IA · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

SALES/ MANAGEMENT TRAINEES (no previous exp. necessary - we will train you!) Looking for people who ... in all aspects of sales, operations, and inventory. They must also display leadership and ...

Furniture Row

Sales / Management Trainee

Marion, IA · On-site

$35K - $55K/yr

SALES/ MANAGEMENT TRAINEES (no previous exp. necessary - we will train you!) Looking for people who ... in all aspects of sales, operations, and inventory. They must also display leadership and ...

Furniture Row

Sales / Management Trainee

Marion, IA · On-site

$35K - $55K/yr

SALES/ MANAGEMENT TRAINEES (no previous exp. necessary - we will train you!) Looking for people who ... in all aspects of sales, operations, and inventory. They must also display leadership and ...

Furniture Row

Sales / Management Trainee

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$35K - $55K/yr

SALES/ MANAGEMENT TRAINEES (no previous exp. necessary - we will train you!) Looking for people who ... in all aspects of sales, operations, and inventory. They must also display leadership and ...

Furniture Row

Sales / Management Trainee

Davenport, IA · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

SALES/ MANAGEMENT TRAINEES (no previous exp. necessary - we will train you!) Looking for people who ... in all aspects of sales, operations, and inventory. They must also display leadership and ...

Aldi

Retail Store Manager Trainee

Dyersville, IA · On-site

$96K/yr

You will collaborate with experienced leaders to ensure operational excellence and drive sales ... Position Type: Full-Time Estimated Hours: 45 hours per week Store Manager Trainee Starting Wage ...

Aldi

Retail Store Manager Trainee

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$96K/yr

You will collaborate with experienced leaders to ensure operational excellence and drive sales ... Position Type: Full-Time Estimated Hours: 45 hours per week Store Manager Trainee Starting Wage ...

Aldi

Full-Time Store Manager Trainee

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$96K/yr

You will collaborate with experienced leaders to ensure operational excellence and drive sales ... Position Type: Full-Time Estimated Hours: 45 hours per week Store Manager Trainee Starting Wage ...

Aldi

Full-Time Store Manager Trainee

Dyersville, IA · On-site

$96K/yr

You will collaborate with experienced leaders to ensure operational excellence and drive sales ... Position Type: Full-Time Estimated Hours: 45 hours per week Store Manager Trainee Starting Wage ...

Aldi

Full-Time Store Manager Trainee

Fort Dodge, IA

$95K/yr

You will collaborate with experienced leaders to ensure operational excellence and drive sales ... Position Type: Full-Time Estimated Hours: 45 hours per week Store Manager Trainee Starting Wage ...

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Operations Trainee information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$21

$27

How much do operations trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations trainee in Iowa is $21.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $24.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Operations Trainee vs Operations Associate?

AspectOperations TraineeOperations Associate
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in business, logistics, or related field; entry-levelSimilar educational background; may require some experience or internship
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, supervised tasks, learning-focusedMore independent responsibilities, daily operational tasks
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in logistics, manufacturing, and service industries for onboardingStandard role in operations departments, often a step after trainee

In summary, an Operations Trainee is an entry-level role focused on learning and training, while an Operations Associate typically handles more routine operational tasks with some independence. Both roles are common in logistics, manufacturing, and service sectors, with the trainee position serving as a stepping stone to the associate level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operations Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operations Trainee, you typically need a relevant bachelor's degree, strong analytical abilities, and a foundational understanding of business operations or supply chain management. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, spreadsheets, and data analysis tools is often required, and internships or certifications like Six Sigma can be advantageous. Strong soft skills such as communication, attention to detail, and adaptability help trainees collaborate effectively and respond to dynamic operational challenges. These skills and qualities are crucial for learning quickly, driving process improvements, and supporting the efficiency and success of the organization.

What is an Operations Trainee?

An Operations Trainee is an entry-level professional who undergoes training in a company’s operations department to learn essential business processes and procedures. The role typically involves rotational assignments in various operational areas, such as logistics, supply chain, production, and quality control. Operations Trainees gain hands-on experience and develop skills needed for advancement into more specialized or managerial roles within the organization. The position is ideal for recent graduates or individuals looking to start a career in operations management.

What kinds of projects or tasks can an Operations Trainee expect to handle during their first year?

As an Operations Trainee, you can expect to rotate through different departments, assisting with process improvement initiatives, data analysis, and day-to-day operational support. Typical tasks include monitoring workflow efficiency, preparing reports, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve bottlenecks. You'll likely shadow experienced staff, gradually taking on more responsibility as you gain familiarity with company systems and procedures. This hands-on exposure is designed to build a strong foundation for future advancement within operations management.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operations jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Operations jobs in Iowa are:
Operations Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operations Trainee job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 6% As Needed, 88% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,889 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Production Management Trainee

Production Management Trainee

Silgan

IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Silgan Holdings rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 109 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Silgan Containers is seeking a Production Management Development Trainee in Fort Dodge, IA
Join Silgan's Production Management Development Program and gain the skills and experience you need to excel in operations management at one of the largest metal food container manufacturing companies in the food packaging industry.
This program offers comprehensive technical training to prepare you for key roles in production management, ensuring you have a strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, machinery, plant operations, and supervisory roles.
Why Silgan:
  • Competitive pay with annual merit increases
  • Career growth with continuing education and opportunities for advancement into key positions like operations supervisory roles, manufacturing management positions, and plant management.
  • A stable and reliable company that prioritizes sustainability and cares about the health of the environment and its employees.
  • A comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and 401k retirement savings with a company match.
  • Paid time off and paid holidays.
  • Additional benefits include pet insurance, telemedicine, and health programs for weight loss, diabetes, hypertension management, and more.
  • Multiple plant locations across the US offer flexibility and opportunities to grow your career in different regions at union and nonunion plants.

What You Will Do as a Production Management Trainee:
  • Build your skills through our structured training program, which runs for approximately eight to ten months and develops your expertise in supervising production, managing daily production processes, and working with a range of machinery in union and nonunion plants.
  • Assist plant management with daily plant operations, including staff supervision, production planning, and equipment management.
  • Apply statistical process methods and gain experience using basic quality tools like diagrams, flow charts, run charts, and control charts to optimize production.
  • Manage production throughput, ensuring efficient use of equipment and materials while adhering to safety procedures.
  • Enforce standard operating procedures and assist with training and developing plant staff.
  • Oversee teams in various locations, administering labor contracts and fostering positive workplace relations.

What You Bring:
  • High school diploma or GED required; Associate or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or related field preferred.
  • Two or more years of experience in manufacturing or production operations, including setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance of machinery and equipment.
  • One or more years of supervisory or leadership experience in a manufacturing or production environment, with a track record of improving team performance and meeting production goals.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude, technical problem-solving ability, and commitment to safety, quality, and efficiency.
  • Excellent communication, organization, and leadership skills, with the ability to coach and motivate production teams.
  • Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment, multitasking while maintaining attention to detail and meeting deadlines.

Who We Are:
  • Silgan Containers is the largest subsidiary of Silgan Holdings and America's foremost metal food packaging producer.
  • We are rethinking how to make the metal food can through increased recycled content, modern process overhauls, renewable energy procurement, and other innovative practices.

Apply now to launch your manufacturing career with one of the largest producers of metal food containers in the United States!
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.

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