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Process Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Biorefinery Process Operator Nevada, IA Competitive Hourly Rates based on experience. The Biorefinery Process Operator will have the opportunity to be in a quick learning and skill development role ...

Biorefinery Process Operator Nevada, IA Competitive Hourly Rates based on experience. The Biorefinery Process Operator will have the opportunity to be in a quick learning and skill development role ...

Grain Processing Operator

Thor, IA · On-site

$19 - $23.50/hr

We are looking for a Grain Processing Operator to join our team full-time . We provide competitive pay between $19.00 - $23.50 per hour based on experience . This operating position boasts a sign-on ...

Grain Processing Operator

Thor, IA · On-site

$19 - $23.50/hr

We are looking for a Grain Processing Operator to join our team full-time . We provide competitive pay between $19.00 - $23.50 per hour based on experience . This operating position boasts a sign-on ...

Process Engineer

Garner, IA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Work will center around process improvement, equipment selection, operating strategy, commissioning new equipment, and other activities related to successful and world class operation of the plant.

Experience required working for an operating company in the chemical manufacturing, refining, or ... process equipment for inspections, and otherwise perform routine field engineering work in an ...

Experience required working for an operating company in the chemical manufacturing, refining, or ... process equipment for inspections, and otherwise perform routine field engineering work in an ...

Process Engineer POSITION DETAILS: Job Type: Full-Time Pay: Salary FLSA: Exempt Schedule: M-F with ... Participate in operating procedure development. * Participate in the development of the standard ...

Train operators on new processes, equipment, and controls * Support Safe Feed/Safe Food expectations by following all policies and taking action if issues arise * Live out company values in everyday ...

Train operators on new processes, equipment, and controls * Support Safe Feed/Safe Food expectations by following all policies and taking action if issues arise * Live out company values in everyday ...

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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 Jun 9, 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 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.

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 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 Process Operators?

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 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 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 June 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.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Biorefinery Process Operator
Nevada, IA
Competitive Hourly Rates based on experience.

The Biorefinery Process Operator will have the opportunity to be in a quick learning and skill development role through on the job learning. Due to the nature of this position there is fast career development opportunity. Verbio is seeking a highly motivated, self-driven Process Operator, for its biomethane and ethanol production facility located at 59219 Lincoln Highway, Nevada, IA 50201.

About Verbio

This location is the site of the former DuPont cellulosic ethanol facility. At this site, VERBIO produces biomethane (renewable natural gas) from baled crop residues and ethanol from corn. Future growth will include an expansion of the biomethane process and retrofitting of the ethanol facilities.

Position Purpose

The Plant Operator is responsible for the operation of the Biorefinery and performing routine basic maintenance in a highly automated chemical facility. In the area of maintenance, Plant Operators are responsible for the safe and efficient maintenance, basic repair, and cleaning of all equipment associated with bioprocessing processes. At times, Plant Operators may be asked to assist Maintenance Operators in more technical and complex maintenance procedures. Team members in this position are required to maintain knowledge of the process flow, computerized equipment, and be aware of hazards associated with the process as well as understand and execute standard operating procedures (SOPs). Continuous plant operation requires 12-hour shift work. Plant Operators must be able to adapt to 12-hour workdays and be able to meet call-in requirements as needed.

This is a full-time hourly position including health, dental, vision, 401(k), vacation and other employee benefits.

Essential Functions

  • Responsible for the operation of all plant processing equipment and performing routine basic maintenance in a highly automated chemical facility.
  • Operate the DCS (Distributed Control System) for the plant.
  • Troubleshoot equipment to optimize production.
  • Inspect product to ensure quality standards are met.
  • Perform basic asset care duties to include routine preventative maintenance and cleaning of work area.
  • Work as a team to help meet or exceed production, waste, quality, and safety goals.
  • Maintain strict adherence to safety rules and regulations, including wearing safety equipment. Responsible for permitting onsite contract work.
  • Perform tasks such as lifting, walking, climbing, stooping, standing, pushing and/or pulling for up to twelve (12) hours a day, in a loud/noisy, and industrial, high-volume environment.
  • Follow procedures for plant start-up and shut-down.
  • Maintain accurate and timely logs.
  • Collect and test quality control samples, interpret QA/QC results and make adjustments to optimize plant operations, timely and accurately document results and enter results into our data collection system.
  • Provide backup support to other roles as needed.
  • Additional duties, as assigned.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Experience requirements:
  • experience in a production environment preferred.
  • Documented successful performance as a Plant Operator or equivalent work experience preferred.
  • Working knowledge in math, reading comprehension and mechanical reasoning required.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills are required.
  • Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills as well as the ability to embrace change.
  • You know the basics of Microsoft Office Suite. You’re capable of learning new programs.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU
Starting salary is based on candidate experience, education and market pay for the role in the region. As a team member at Verbio North America, you’ll also enjoy:
  • Comprehensive benefits package beginning day one, including health, dental, vision, life insurance.
  • Company paid short amp; long-term disability coverage as well as AD amp;D.
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time with additional leave plans
    • 11 paid holidays
    • 15 days of paid vacation time
    • 5 sick/personal days
  • Company contribution of 3% safe harbor and 2 % profit sharing in accordance with the contribution and vesting schedule into a 401(k) account after 90 days.
  • Career advancement and bonus opportunities
  • Career Development: on-the-job training and skills development.

HOW TO APPLY:

If you meet the requirements of this opportunity and want to impact our mission, we encourage you to apply now. Please submit your application on our website at https://www.verbio.us/careers. A resume is required when applying, cover letters are optional and professional references may be requested later on in the hiring process.

Except where prohibited by state law, all offers of employment are conditioned upon successfully passing a background check and drug test.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form (I-9) upon hire.

Verbio North America reserves the right to change job descriptions and wage scales at their discretion based on market and company conditions. Positions will be filled based upon experience, prior work history, education, and competency.

Verbio North America is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in is application process for individuals with disabilities and encourages applicants with disabilities to request any needed accommodation(s).

Verbio North America is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization. Verbio North America makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.