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Pharma Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Pharma Operator

Charles City, IA

$16 - $21.50/hr

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 ...

Pharma Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

... 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 ...

Pharma Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

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 ...

JRS Pharma LP is seeking an experienced night shift Dex Production Operator to join our growing U.S. Cedar Rapids, IA team as a key contributor to our manufacturing operations. This role plays a ...

Production Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

JRS Pharma LP is seeking an experienced night shift Dex Production Operator to join our growing U.S. Cedar Rapids, IA team as a key contributor to our manufacturing operations. This role plays a ...

Pharma 2 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

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 ...

Pharma 1 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

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 ...

Pharma 3 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

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 ...

Pharma 1 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

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 ...

Pharma 3/4 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

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 ...

Pharma 3 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

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 ...

Pharma 2 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

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 ...

Pharma 2 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

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 ...

Pharma 1 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

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 ...

Pharma 3 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

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 ...

Pharma 3/4 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

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 ...

Pharma 3/4 Operator

Charles City, IA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

... 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 ...

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Pharma information

See Iowa salary details

$4

$51

$85

How much do pharma jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for pharma in Iowa is $51.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47.40 and $59.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pharma?

A Pharma job refers to a role within the pharmaceutical industry, which focuses on the research, development, production, and distribution of medications and healthcare products. Positions range from research scientists and regulatory affairs specialists to sales representatives and quality control professionals. These roles play a critical part in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and availability of medicines that improve patient health worldwide.

What career advancement opportunities are available for professionals in the pharma industry?

Career advancement in the pharma industry can take many paths, depending on your interests and expertise. With experience, professionals can move into roles such as senior scientist, regulatory affairs manager, or project lead, and some may transition to leadership positions overseeing clinical trials, quality assurance, or product development teams. Many companies also support ongoing education and skill development, providing pathways into specialized areas like pharmacovigilance or market access. By taking on additional responsibilities and demonstrating strong results, you can build a long-term career with growing impact and influence in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a pharma position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a pharma role, you generally need a strong background in pharmaceutical sciences, relevant industry experience, and often a degree in pharmacy, chemistry, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, regulatory compliance systems (such as FDA or EMA guidelines), and quality control software is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and clear communication help professionals excel in research, development, and team collaboration. These capabilities are essential to ensure product safety, effective teamwork, and adherence to stringent industry regulations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pharma jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Pharma jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Pharma jobs in Iowa? For Pharma jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Pharma jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Pharma job openings:
Infographic showing various Pharma job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,137 per year, or $51 per hour.

$16 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago


Cambrex rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th 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

What Cambrex employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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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

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