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Packaging Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Associate Manager, Operations / Mailroom Gannett Publishing Services/USA TODAY CO Des Moines, IA The Associate Packaging Manager is responsible for day-to-day management of all Packaging Center ...

Associate Manager, Operations / Mailroom Gannett Publishing Services/USA TODAY CO Des Moines, IA The Associate Packaging Manager is responsible for day-to-day management of all Packaging Center ...

Adecco is currently seeking motivated individuals for the role of Packaging Operator at a leading ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

Packaging Lead 1st Shift

Cedar Rapids, IA

$18.25 - $25.25/hr

... associates. 100% Food Service, 4 bag soup lines, 1 tub line, 18 Kettles, 5 Filling lines, and 4 packaging lines. Products include Frozen Soups and Macaroni & Cheese Company History: Kraft Heinz in ...

Sales Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $17.50/hr

Complete compensation package to full-time associates including 401k plan and match, paid vacation after 3 months, medical, dental and more. Sales Associates: We will train you completely in the FINE ...

Sales Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $17.50/hr

Complete compensation package to full-time associates including 401k plan and match, paid vacation after 3 months, medical, dental and more. Sales Associates: We will train you completely in the FINE ...

Competitive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement Plan.What you will be doing:A Production Associate is an entry level role in our bakery and a valuable member of the production team ...

Competitive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement Plan. What you will be doing: * A Production Associate is an entry level role in our bakery and a valuable member of the production ...

Competitive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement Plan. What you will be doing: * A Production Associate is an entry level role in our bakery and a valuable member of the production ...

Competitive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement Plan. What you will be doing: * A Production Associate is an entry level role in our bakery and a valuable member of the production ...

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Packaging Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do packaging associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for packaging associate in Iowa is $15.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills are needed for packaging jobs?

Packaging associates need strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to operate packaging equipment and tools. Good organizational skills, physical stamina, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important. Basic math skills and knowledge of safety procedures are often required.

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

To thrive as a Packaging Associate, you generally need attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow safety and quality standards, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with packaging machinery, conveyor systems, and inventory tracking software is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and reliability are crucial soft skills that help maintain steady workflow and meet production targets. These skills ensure efficient, safe handling of products and consistent output in fast-paced manufacturing environments.

What are Packaging Associates?

Packaging Associates are workers responsible for preparing products for shipment by packaging them according to company standards. Their tasks typically include assembling boxes, labeling packages, inspecting products for quality, and ensuring items are securely packed to prevent damage during transportation. They often work in warehouses, manufacturing plants, or distribution centers and may use various tools and machines to assist with packaging. Attention to detail and the ability to work efficiently are important skills for this role.

What do packing associates do?

Packing associates are responsible for preparing products for shipment by packing, labeling, and organizing items efficiently and accurately. They often operate packing equipment, follow safety procedures, and ensure that packages meet quality standards in a warehouse or distribution center environment.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Packaging associates typically do not earn $4,000 per week; such high wages are uncommon in entry-level packaging roles. Jobs that can pay this amount without a degree often include specialized trades like commercial truck driving, sales, or certain skilled trades, which may require certifications or experience. High-paying roles without a degree usually involve physical work, sales skills, or technical expertise.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $3,000 a day typically include high-level roles such as specialized surgeons, corporate executives, or successful entrepreneurs. Certain freelance professionals like top-tier consultants, lawyers, or skilled tradespeople with significant experience and client demand may also reach this level, often requiring advanced skills, certifications, or a strong reputation. These roles usually involve high responsibility, expertise, and often work in demanding environments or with irregular schedules.

What is the difference between Packaging Associate vs Material Handler?

AspectPackaging AssociateMaterial Handler
Primary RoleAssembles, packages, and prepares products for shipmentMoves, loads, and unloads materials within a facility
Skills & CertificationsBasic math, attention to detail, possibly forklift certificationForklift operation, inventory management, safety training
Work EnvironmentWarehouse, production lines, packaging stationsWarehouse, distribution centers, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageManufacturing, logistics, retailManufacturing, warehousing, distribution

While both roles operate within warehouse and manufacturing settings, Packaging Associates focus on preparing products for shipment by packaging and labeling, whereas Material Handlers manage the movement and storage of materials. Both roles require safety awareness and may involve forklift operation, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are some common challenges Packaging Associates face, and how can they be overcome?

Packaging Associates often encounter challenges such as meeting tight production deadlines, maintaining quality control, and adapting to repetitive tasks. To succeed, it's important to develop strong attention to detail, effective time management skills, and a focus on safety protocols. Collaborating closely with team members and supervisors can help streamline workflow and resolve issues quickly, making the environment efficient and supportive.
What are the most commonly searched types of Packaging jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Packaging jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Packaging Associate jobs in Iowa? For Packaging Associate jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Packaging Associate jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Packaging Associate jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Packaging Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Packaging Associate job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Packaging Associate jobs in IA? For Packaging Associate jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Packaging Associate job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,117 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Associate Manager, Packaging

Associate Manager, Packaging

gannett

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Gannett rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 67 rated media


Job description

Associate Manager, Operations / Mailroom

Gannett Publishing Services/USA TODAY CO

Des Moines, IA

The Associate Packaging Manager is responsible for day-to-day management of all Packaging Center functions to support efficient execution of production operations to achieve and maintain on-time production, product quality standards, low waste, and operational safety.  

  • Responsible for adhering to an annual budget including monthly/quarterly financial performance (expense and revenue estimates) and reporting compliance
  • Responsible for planning, coordinating and monitoring the daily Packaging Center operation to achieve productivity and financial goals. 
  • Responsible to ensure the daily production, quantity and quality requirements are achieved to provide our advertisers and subscribers a quality product in a timely fashion.  
  • Responsible for maintaining pre-print information including reports, quantity and accuracy, receiving, consumption and productivity.  Coordinate preprint/insert schedules with other departments such as pressroom, transportation and advertising.
  • Responsible for production & shift scheduling.
  • Assist with supply inventory and purchasing.
  • Responsible for managing staff including hiring, scheduling, training, performance, development and handling employee related issues.
  • Responsible for accurate and timely web portal data entry
  • Responsible for maintaining secure storage and implementing security policies regarding customers inserts/preprints per established Gannett policies.

Safety

  • Always work in a safe manner and consistently utilize required safety equipment to promote top-of-mind safety awareness:
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment.  Assist in leading safety compliance within the department including accident investigations and follow up.
  • Complete required annual OSHA safety training programs.
  • Report work related injuries to insurance carrier.
  • Ensure all machine safety-guards are installed, functioning properly, and in use.
  • Immediately report any operational concerns, potential safety hazards and all accidents/injuries and near misses to packaging manager.

Communications

  • Provide timely and accurate information to management as required
  • Responsible for communication regarding equipment repairs and/or consumable materials.
  • Communicate scheduling needs to supervisors and/or packaging management          
  • Other duties as assigned

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