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Pharma Packaging Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Cambrex

Pharma Operator

Charles City, IA

$16 - $21.50/hr

We offer a competitive benefits package that includes healthcare, life insurance, planning for ... Responsible for completion of all operation log books in Pharma area. Troubleshoot production line ...

Cambrex

Pharma Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

We offer a competitive benefits package that includes healthcare, life insurance, planning for ... Responsible for completion of all operation log books in Pharma area. Troubleshoot production line ...

Cambrex

Pharma Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

We offer a competitive benefits package that includes healthcare, life insurance, planning for ... new Pharma Reactor Operators. • Drum compounds and hazardous waste; label according to set ...

Cambrex

Chem 2 Operator

Charles City, IA

$16 - $19.75/hr

... packaging and cleanup of equipment. Responsible for completion of all operation log books in Pharma area. Troubleshoot production line and equipment problems in a safe and effective manner. Assist ...

Cambrex

Chem 2 Operator

Charles City, IA

$16 - $19.75/hr

... packaging and cleanup of equipment. * Responsible for completion of all operation log books in Pharma area. * Troubleshoot production line and equipment problems in a safe and effective manner ...

Cambrex

Pilot Plant Operator

Charles City, IA

... packaging and cleanup of equipment. * Responsible for completion of all operation log books in Pharma area. * Troubleshoot production line and equipment problems in a safe and effective manner ...

Cambrex

Pilot Plant Operator

Charles City, IA

... packaging and cleanup of equipment. * Responsible for completion of all operation log books in Pharma area. * Troubleshoot production line and equipment problems in a safe and effective manner ...

Cambrex

Pilot Plant Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

... packaging and cleanup of equipment. * Responsible for completion of all operation log books in Pharma area. * Troubleshoot production line and equipment problems in a safe and effective manner ...

Tessenderlo Group

Manufacturing Plant Operator

Davenport, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

We supply a growing market in food, pharma, health nutrition and technical applications. In all our ... Assemble, package, or inspect products to ensure they meet company specifications. * Quality ...

Turner Construction

Senior MEP Engineer

West Des Moines, IA

$95K - $126K/yr

Lead responsibility for complex projects such as Mission Critical, Hospital/Healthcare, Pharma and Government jobs that have an MEP package of 25M+. * Communicate estimate and scopes of work to the ...

Turner Construction

Senior MEP Engineer

West Des Moines, IA

$95K - $126K/yr

Lead responsibility for complex projects such as Mission Critical, Hospital/Healthcare, Pharma and Government jobs that have an MEP package of 25M+. * Communicate estimate and scopes of work to the ...

Tessenderlo Group

Purchasing Clerk

Davenport, IA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

We supply a growing market in food, pharma, health nutrition and technical applications. In all our ... Packaged Chemicals * Lab Supplies * Basic Services (e.g., lawncare, janitorial, snow removal, waste ...

Tessenderlo Group

Purchasing Clerk

Davenport, IA

$16 - $20.75/hr

We supply a growing market in food, pharma, health nutrition and technical applications. In all our ... Packaged Chemicals * Lab Supplies * Basic Services (e.g., lawncare, janitorial, snow removal, waste ...

Deloitte

System Test and Validation Lead

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

Drive inspection readiness activities, including gap assessments, mock audits, validation package ... pharma, biotech, medical device, or clinical * Experience leading validation deliverables for GxP ...

Deloitte

System Test and Validation Lead

Davenport, IA · On-site +1

Drive inspection readiness activities, including gap assessments, mock audits, validation package ... pharma, biotech, medical device, or clinical * Experience leading validation deliverables for GxP ...

Deloitte

System Test and Validation Lead

Davenport, IA · On-site +1

Drive inspection readiness activities, including gap assessments, mock audits, validation package ... pharma, biotech, medical device, or clinical * Experience leading validation deliverables for GxP ...

Deloitte

System Test and Validation Lead

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

Drive inspection readiness activities, including gap assessments, mock audits, validation package ... pharma, biotech, medical device, or clinical * Experience leading validation deliverables for GxP ...

Deloitte

System Test and Validation Lead

Davenport, IA · On-site +1

Drive inspection readiness activities, including gap assessments, mock audits, validation package ... pharma, biotech, medical device, or clinical * Experience leading validation deliverables for GxP ...

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All JobsPharma Packaging JobsPharma Packaging Jobs in Iowa

Pharma Packaging information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$17

$25

How much do pharma packaging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for pharma packaging in Iowa is $17.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced in a Pharma Packaging role and how are they addressed?

In a Pharma Packaging role, maintaining strict compliance with regulatory standards and ensuring product integrity are common challenges. Team members must consistently monitor packaging lines for accuracy, prevent contamination, and document every step to meet Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements. Effective communication with quality assurance and production teams is essential to quickly resolve issues and minimize downtime. Ongoing training and adherence to standard operating procedures help address these challenges and maintain high-quality outcomes.

What is the difference between Pharma Packaging vs Pharma Quality Control?

AspectPharma PackagingPharma Quality Control
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or technical training, certifications in packaging processesDegree in pharmacy, chemistry, or related field; certifications in quality assurance
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities, packaging linesLaboratories, testing facilities
Industry UsageEnsures proper packaging of pharmaceutical productsEnsures products meet quality standards through testing

Pharma Packaging focuses on the physical packaging of medicines, ensuring they are correctly labeled and sealed. Pharma Quality Control involves testing and inspecting products to meet safety and efficacy standards. Both roles are essential in pharmaceutical manufacturing but serve different functions within the industry.

What is pharma packaging?

Pharma packaging refers to the process and materials used to encase pharmaceutical products, such as tablets, capsules, liquids, and medical devices, to protect them from contamination, damage, and tampering. It ensures the safety, stability, and efficacy of medications throughout their shelf life and during transportation. Pharma packaging also includes labeling and regulatory information to help ensure that drugs are used safely by healthcare professionals and patients.

What are common pharmaceutical packaging roles?

Common pharmaceutical packaging roles include Packaging Technician, Packaging Operator, Quality Control Inspector, and Packaging Supervisor. These roles involve tasks such as assembling, labeling, inspecting, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards, often requiring knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and familiarity with packaging machinery. Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Pharma Packaging, and why are they important?

To excel in Pharma Packaging, you need a strong understanding of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), attention to detail, and a high school diploma or relevant technical certification. Familiarity with packaging machinery, labeling systems, and quality control tools is typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and problem-solving skills help individuals stand out in this role. These competencies ensure packaging compliance, product safety, and efficient operations in the highly regulated pharmaceutical industry.

How much does pharmaceutical packaging make?

Pharmaceutical packaging professionals typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and specific role. Skilled workers with certifications or specialized knowledge in packaging machinery or quality control may earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the complexity of the packaging processes and the size of the employer.

What does a pharmaceutical packaging technician do?

A pharmaceutical packaging technician is responsible for assembling, labeling, and packaging medications and medical products according to strict quality and safety standards. They operate packaging machinery, inspect products for defects, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, often working in cleanroom environments. Attention to detail and knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) are essential for this role.

What is the highest paying job in pharma?

In pharma packaging, senior management roles such as Director of Packaging or Vice President of Manufacturing typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of regulatory standards and production processes.
What job categories do people searching Pharma Packaging jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Pharma Packaging jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Pharma Packaging jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Pharma Packaging job openings:
Pharma Packaging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pharma Packaging job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,818 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
Pharma Operator

Pharma Operator

Cambrex

Charles City, IA

$16 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Cambrex rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 86 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

Company Information

You Matter to Cambrex.

Cambrex is a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that provides drug substance, drug product, and analytical services across the entire drug lifecycle. With more than 40 years of experience and a growing team of over 2,000 professionals servicing global clients, Cambrex is a trusted partner in branded and generic markets for API and dosage form development and manufacturing.

Your Work Matters.

At Cambrex, we strive to build a culture where all colleagues have the opportunity to:

  • engage in work that matters to our customers and the patients they serve
  • learn new skills and enjoy new experiences in an engaging and safe environment
  • strengthen connections with coworkers and the community

We're committed to attracting and nurturing a passionate team of valued professionals in our fast-paced and growing company.  We offer a competitive benefits package that includes healthcare, life insurance, planning for retirement, and more!

Your Future Matters.

Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong commitment to quality and safety, we offer a range of career and growth opportunities across our global network of locations. Together with our customers, we aim to improve the quality of life for patients around the world. Start a career where You Matter by applying today!

Overview:

Reporting to the shift supervisor, the Reactor Operator will be expected to successfully produce chemical and pharmaceutical products in our manufacturing environment. 

Responsibilities:

Operate batch and continuous type reactors, high pressure reactors, centrifuges, filters, solvent distillation equipment and supporting equipment involved in testing, all according to designated procedures. 

   Monitor the equipment; setting controls on valves, vacuums, pumps, pressures, etc., according to designated procedures to achieve desired results. 

   Monitors the process variables and makes process control adjustments to maintain the proper process control. Use manual and computer-controlled devices to monitor and control the process. 

   Clean all equipment used (boil, scrape or scrub out) following designated procedures. 

   Assist in training new Pharma Reactor Operators. 

   Drum compounds and hazardous waste; label according to set standards; transport to assigned areas. 

   Assure area is kept clean and all precautions are taken to prevent environmental spills and control discharge to WWTP at acceptable limits. 

   Interpret results and monitor processes using computer-controlled devices. 

   Responsible for safe handling of hazardous materials including loading/unloading trucks, processing, packaging and cleanup of equipment. 

   Responsible for completion of all operation log books in Pharma area. 

   Troubleshoot production line and equipment problems in a safe and effective manner. 

   Assist lab personnel with implementing new processes or process changes 

   Complete line entry, confined space, and hot work permits.  

   Assist in writing and updating process procedures and SOP's. 

   Adhere to all EPA, FDA and cGMP regulations as they relate to the operation of the chemical production facility. 

   Take samples for in-process and Quality Control analysis. 

   Perform laboratory tests on process samples and act on results. 

   Assume duties of Reactor Operator Chem I/II

Qualifications / Skills:
  • Good communication skills, both oral and written
  • Strong mechanical aptitude/knowledge
Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements: (Text Only)- High School Diploma or equivalent - 3 or more years of experience in a manufacturing environment or related businessEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Cambrex

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

East Rutherford, NJ, US

Year founded

1981

Social media

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