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Part Time Manual Labor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Illustrative Examples of Work 1. Assists full-time staff with a variety of manual labor tasks ... SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Part-Time Positions: A criminal background check is required. A valid State ...

Retail Sales Associate

Altoona, IA ยท On-site

$11 - $14/hr

The Part Time Sales Associate is responsible for supporting sales performance, delivering ... Manual labor is required occasionally to assemble displays and/or rearrange the store layout.

Retail Sales Associate

Altoona, IA ยท On-site

$11 - $14/hr

The Part Time Sales Associate is responsible for supporting sales performance, delivering ... Manual labor is required occasionally to assemble displays and/or rearrange the store layout.

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Part Time Manual Labor information

See Iowa salary details

$7

$16

$27

How much do part time manual labor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time manual labor in Iowa is $16.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.25 and $19.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is part time manual labor?

Part time manual labor refers to physically demanding work that is performed on a schedule of fewer hours than a full-time position, typically less than 35-40 hours per week. These jobs often involve tasks such as lifting, carrying, cleaning, assembling, loading, or working with tools and machinery. Part time manual labor roles can be found in industries like construction, warehousing, landscaping, and manufacturing. They are ideal for individuals looking for flexible schedules or supplementary income, though the work can be physically strenuous and may require safety training. Employers may offer shifts during evenings, weekends, or irregular hours to accommodate various needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time manual laborer?

To thrive as a Part Time Manual Laborer, you need physical stamina, basic math skills, and the ability to follow instructions, with a high school diploma often preferred but not always required. Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and basic safety equipment is typically expected on most job sites. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure tasks are completed efficiently, safely, and contribute to a productive work environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by part time manual laborers, and how can they be managed?

Part-time manual laborers often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding tasks, varying work schedules, and learning job-specific safety protocols. Managing these challenges involves maintaining good physical health, staying hydrated, and using proper lifting techniques to prevent injury. Additionally, communicating effectively with supervisors and coworkers helps ensure tasks are understood and safety is prioritized, making it easier to balance work demands and avoid accidents.

What is the difference between Part Time Manual Labor vs Part Time Construction Worker?

AspectPart Time Manual LaborPart Time Construction Worker
CredentialsNone typically required, some roles may need OSHA safety trainingOSHA safety training often required, possibly specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentVaries; warehouses, landscaping, general maintenanceConstruction sites, buildings, outdoor and indoor projects
Industry UsageBroad; manufacturing, landscaping, facilities maintenanceConstruction industry, infrastructure projects
Search & Comparison IntentYes; often compared for similar manual rolesYes; specific to construction tasks

Part Time Manual Labor encompasses a wide range of manual tasks across various industries, often requiring minimal certifications. Part Time Construction Worker is a specialized subset focusing on construction sites, usually needing OSHA safety training. While both involve physical work, construction roles are more industry-specific and may require additional safety certifications.

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

The most popular types of Manual Labor jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Part Time Manual Labor jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Part Time Manual Labor job openings:

Infographic showing various Part Time Manual Labor job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,675 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Conservation Laborer - Parks

Polk County

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Assist full-time staff with manual labor tasks required to maintain county parks, lands, facilities, and equipment.

  • Perform routine maintenance and custodial duties such as cleaning facilities, maintaining recreation areas, and caring for plants and trees.

  • Maintain and operate equipment including hand tools, power tools, and vehicles, and assist with repair and maintenance projects.


Job description

Under supervision of the lead staff, Manager, or their designee, assists full-time staff in the seasonal maintenance of county conservation board lands, facilities, and equipment. Performs a variety of semi-skilled maintenance, custodial, and laborer duties within the Conservation department; performs related work as assigned. Illustrative Examples of Work 1.

Assists full-time staff with a variety of manual labor tasks required to maintain a county park system. 2. Participates in the care of county-owned lawns, trees, shrubs, and plants.

Mows and trims grass, clears brush, removes invasive species, and cuts firewood. 3. Performs on a routine basis the cleaning of restroom/shower facilities, shelters, offices, shop areas, rental facilities, and campsite areas; picks up litter and hauls waste.

4. Cleans and maintains recreation areas and playground sites; checks for safety concerns. 5.

Assists with repair, light construction, painting, and other maintenance projects. 6. Maintains and operates equipment such as hand tools, power tools, service vehicles, gators, tractors, mowers, custodial cleaning equipment, and pressure washers.

7. Assists in the maintenance of county trails. 8.

Replenishes custodial cleaning supplies, restroom supplies, and other stocked items in various supply areas. 9. Completes daily work logs and other forms as necessary.

10.Performs related duties as assigned. Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge and use of hand and power tools in performing manual labor tasks. Knowledge and use of custodial and cleaning equipment machines

General knowledge of the techniques and methods used in tree maintenance and care. Skill in the use and maintenance of lawn equipment including mowers/trimmers. Ability to perform manual labor tasks in all types of weather conditions.

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Ability to safely operate equipment including mowers, weed eaters, and hand tools.

Ability to establish and maintain satisfactory working relationships with other County employees and the general public using courtesy, patience, and tact. Ability to walk and stand for prolonged periods. Ability to walk on uneven surfaces.

Ability to back equipment with a trailer attached. Training and Experience Must be 18 years of age or older. Graduation from High School or equivalent, and Experience with operation of equipment such as mowers, weed eaters, and hand tools preferred, or Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Pesticide Applicator's License per Iowa Code Section 206.6 is preferred. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Part-Time Positions: A criminal background check is required. A valid State of Iowa driver's license is required

Candidate must pass a post-employment offer physical examination and physical capacity testing to ensure the candidate meets the essential physical requirements of the position. A drug screen is required. CPR/AED and First Aid certification is required within six months.

On-Call and Seasonal Position: A criminal background check is required. A valid State of Iowa driver's license is required. CPR/AED and First Aid certification is required within six months.

Polk County is committed to providing a diverse work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law. Polk County believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to our success in serving and empowering our community and to our continued commitment to be one of the nation's most innovative public institutions.