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Process Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Process Operator is assigned to a rotating shift. Position Details: This position works a 12 hour shift, on a rotating basis days and nights, 4 on 4 off. Pay starts at $27.73 per hour What You'll ...

Process Operator

Iowa Falls, IA · On-site

$19.75 - $25/hr

Executing processes and operating all equipment of a designated area; departments may include preparation, refinery, extraction, steam generation, biodiesel, and grain drying * Monitoring equipment ...

Process Operator

Iowa Falls, IA · On-site

$19.75 - $25/hr

Executing processes and operating all equipment of a designated area; departments may include preparation, refinery, extraction, steam generation, biodiesel, and grain drying * Monitoring equipment ...

The Process Operator is assigned to a rotating shift. Position Details: This position works a 12 hour shift, on a rotating basis days and nights, 4 on 4 off. Pay starts at $27.73 per hour What You'll ...

Process Operator

Iowa Falls, IA · On-site

$19.75 - $25/hr

Executing processes and operating all equipment of a designated area; departments may include preparation, refinery, extraction, steam generation, biodiesel, and grain drying * Monitoring equipment ...

The Process Operator is assigned to a rotating shift.Position Details:This position works a 12 hour shift, on a rotating basis days and nights, 4 on 4 off. Pay starts at $27.73 per hourWhat You?ll Be ...

The Process Operator is assigned to a rotating shift. Position Details: This position works a 12 hour shift, on a rotating basis days and nights, 4 on 4 off. Pay starts at $27.73 per hour What You'll ...

Renewables Process Operator

Denison, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

This role is ideal for a hands-on, safety-focused individual who enjoys working in a production environment, monitoring processes, operating equipment, and contributing to the efficient production of ...

Renewables Process Operator

Denison, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

This role is ideal for a hands-on, safety-focused individual who enjoys working in a production environment, monitoring processes, operating equipment, and contributing to the efficient production of ...

***Process Operator - $25/hr*** Pay: $25/hour Location: Sioux City, IA OR South Sioux City, NE Hours: 10:30pm - 6:30am or 6pm - 6am _____ Key Responsibilities: * Prepare outbound orders; sign off on ...

Process Operator - Lakota Ethanol Plant

Lakota, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

As a Process Operator you will oversee the daily operation of an assigned area of the production process within the plant. Working a 12-hour rotating shift schedule while maintaining a safe work ...

Processing Operator

Ames, IA · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

Job Title: Processing Operator The Processing Operator oversees automated spaghetti processing ... Apply and follow process control procedures to maintain consistent production conditions and ...

Proficient in process control, production, and manufacturing. * Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and ... Operators will work in an air-conditioned control room for 30-40% of the time. On the production ...

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Process Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$19

$29

How much do process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for process operator in Iowa is $19.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a process operator?

Process Operators are professionals responsible for managing and overseeing the machinery and systems that produce goods in industries such as manufacturing, chemical processing, and oil and gas. Their duties include monitoring equipment, adjusting controls to maintain quality and safety, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during production. They play a critical role in ensuring production runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely, often working as part of a larger operations team. Process Operators must adhere to strict safety protocols and may be required to document production data or perform routine maintenance.

What does a process operator do?

A process operator is a skilled industrial professional who works as part of a team, or individually, to manage a safe and effective production process within a manufacturing plant, facility, or refinery. Process operators are charged with monitoring the equipment, machinery, and instruments within the facility and troubleshooting when issues arise. As a process operator, it is important to inspect equipment and maintain records of all updates, repairs, and replacements.

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

To thrive as a Process Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial processes, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or relevant technical certification. Familiarity with control systems like DCS/SCADA, equipment maintenance, and safety certifications such as OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation of machinery, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity in industrial settings.

What are some common challenges faced by process operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Process Operators often work in rotating shifts to ensure continuous plant operation, which can present challenges such as adjusting to changing sleep schedules and managing fatigue. To address these issues, operators are encouraged to maintain healthy sleep habits, communicate openly with team members about workload distribution, and utilize scheduled breaks effectively. Many facilities also offer training on shift work management and provide support resources to help employees adapt, ensuring both safety and productivity are maintained.

What is the difference between Process Operator vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectProcess OperatorMaintenance Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications or trade licenses often required
Work EnvironmentFactories, plants, or industrial facilities operating machinery and equipmentIndustrial or manufacturing settings focusing on equipment repair and maintenance
Job FocusMonitoring, controlling, and optimizing production processesMaintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting machinery and equipment

While both roles work in industrial environments, Process Operators focus on running and controlling production processes, whereas Maintenance Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining equipment. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right career path in manufacturing and industrial sectors.

How much do process operators earn?

Process operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages, especially in facilities with shift work or hazardous environments.

Is it hard to be a process operator?

Being a process operator involves monitoring and controlling industrial equipment, which requires attention to detail, technical skills, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and often involves shift work, but with proper training and certifications, it is manageable for many individuals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Process Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Process Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Process Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Process Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Process Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Process Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Process Operator jobs in IA?

For Process Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Process Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,313 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Process Operator

Bunge

Council Bluffs, IA

$27.73/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Bunge rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

City : Council Bluffs State : Iowa (US-IA) Country : United States (US) Requisition Number : 46424 A Day in the Life: The Process Operator is assigned to a rotating shift. Position Details: This position works a 12 hour shift, on a rotating basis days and nights, 4 on 4 off. Pay starts at $27.73 per hour What You'll Be Doing: Must actively participate in Bunge's Employee Safety Involvement Plan. Maintain a safe work environment for self and all employees. Required to follow all HAACP procedures and guidelines to ensure product safety and quality. Operate and control soybean processing equipment/machines. Record data, secures samples and performs necessary process control tests required for the successful operation of the plant. Make adjustments and maintain operating parameters. General housekeeping of the plant. Cross train in all processes. Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned. Commitment to supply safe food, maintain a food safety culture within the site, continually improve the site's food safety management system; and comply with customer and regulatory requirements. Qualifications: High School diploma or GED equivalent, preferred. Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment. Demonstrated ability to work in a safety conscious environment. Some mechanical background including the ability to recognize signs of operational failure. Good written and verbal communications skills. Must be able to proficiently read and write in English for the purposes of record keeping and safety and quality training processes. Strong problem solving and analytical skills. Must be self-motivated with the ability to work unsupervised. Must be willing and able to work rotating shift. Overtime will be required both as part of the normal schedule and to provide coverage as needed. Benefits: Health Benefits - Offering choices so you can enroll in medical, dental and vision plans that meet your individual needs. 401(k) Retirement Plan - Investing in your future with an automatic 5% company contribution AND matching up to 4% of your contributions. Family Support - Supporting new and growing families by providing 6 weeks of 100% paid parental leave and fertility coverage. Tuition Reimbursement - after one year of service, eligible for tuition expenses reimbursement of up to $5000 per year. Vacation time- We value work-life balance and offer a generous vacation program. Vacation time is accrued each pay period, with the accrual rate determined by your length of service at Bunge, pay frequency, and shift schedule. Typically, employees accrue approximately two weeks of vacation during their first full calendar year. However, the exact amount may vary depending on the specific facility's shift schedule. At Bunge (NYSE: BG), our purpose is to connect farmers to consumers to deliver essential food, feed and fuel to the world. As a premier agribusiness solutions provider, our team of ~34,000 dedicated employees partner with farmers across the globe to move agricultural commodities from where they're grown to where they're needed-in faster, smarter, and more efficient ways. We are a world leader in grain origination, storage, distribution, oilseed processing and refining, offering a broad portfolio of plant-based oils, fats, and proteins. We work alongside our customers at both ends of the value chain to deliver quality products and develop tailored, innovative solutions that address evolving consumer needs. With 200+ years of experience and presence in over 50 countries, we are committed to strengthening global food security, advancing sustainability, and helping communities prosper where we operate. Bunge has its registered office in Geneva, Switzerland and its corporate headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri. Learn more at Bunge.com. Every day our people exemplify these values, which represent Bunge at its core: • We Are One Team - Collaborative, Respectful, Inclusive • We Lead The Way - Agile, Empowered, Innovative • We Do What's Right - Safety, Sustainability, With Integrity If this sounds like you, join us! We value and invest in people who believe in our purpose and are excited to live it every day - people who are #ProudtoBeBunge Job Segment: Process Operator, Facilities, Food Safety, Housekeeping, Agricultural, Manufacturing, Operations, Quality, Healthcare, Agriculture

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