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Production Assistant Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Ranews Companies LLC

Production Associate

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$15 - $21/hr

Now Hiring - Production Associate Ranew's Companies is seeking a Production Associate to join our team in Waterloo, IA. Production associates load, unload, and mask components onto the production ...

Ranews Companies LLC

Production Associate

Allison, IA

$17 - $23/hr

Now Hiring - Production Associate Ranew's Companies is seeking a Production Associate to join our team in Allison, IA. Production associates load, unload, and mask components onto the production line.

Ethos

Production Supervisor

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Production Supervisor The Production Supervisor will be part of the manufacturing team in support of the Director of Operations and Production Manager. Manufactures products by supervising staff ...

Ethos

Production Supervisor

Waterloo, IA

Production Supervisor The Production Supervisor will be part of the manufacturing team in support of the Director of Operations and Production Manager. Manufactures products by supervising staff ...

International Paper

Production Supervisor

Waterloo, IA

$69K - $92K/yr

Supervise employees in the daily production of corrugated board, to include training, planning, assigning, and directing work; evaluating employee performance; rewarding and disciplining employees ...

Opaa!

Kitchen Staff

Grundy Center, IA · On-site

$12 - $15.50/hr

Functions of the Job Essential Functions Production * Assist with the set-up of serving lines daily and make sure that all food is held at the required temperature. Milk coolers are stocked and ready ...

Opaa!

Kitchen Staff

Hudson, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

Functions of the Job Essential Functions Production * Assist with the set-up of serving lines daily and make sure that all food is held at the required temperature. Milk coolers are stocked and ready ...

Opaa!

Kitchen Staff

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Functions of the Job Essential Functions Production * Assist with the set-up of serving lines daily and make sure that all food is held at the required temperature. Milk coolers are stocked and ready ...

Opaa!

Kitchen Staff Substitute

Grundy Center, IA · On-site

$12.75 - $17/hr

Functions of the Job Essential Functions Production * Assist with set-up of serving lines daily and make sure that all food is held at the required temperature. Milk coolers are stocked and ready for ...

Opaa!

Kitchen Staff Substitute

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $18.25/hr

Functions of the Job Essential Functions Production * Assist with set-up of serving lines daily and make sure that all food is held at the required temperature. Milk coolers are stocked and ready for ...

Nestle

Off-Shift Production Supervisor

Waverly, IA

The Off-Shift Production Supervisor (3rd Shift) with Nestle ensures employee safety, product quality and asset performance while delivering on time the shift/line/area production plan. This is ...

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Production Assistant information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$11

$18

$29

How much do production assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for production assistant in Waterloo, IA is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $19.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a production assistant?

Production Assistants (PAs) are entry-level professionals in the film, television, or video production industry who support the crew and help ensure that shoots run smoothly. Their responsibilities can vary widely, from running errands and handling paperwork to assisting with equipment setup and managing on-set logistics. PAs are crucial to the day-to-day operations of a production and often serve as a stepping stone to more specialized roles in the industry. The position requires flexibility, strong communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. Many people begin their entertainment careers as Production Assistants to gain experience and network within the industry.

What does a production assistant do?

In the film and television industry, a production assistant or PA handles a variety of tasks on set, from running errands to assisting with equipment setup and break down. As a PA, you perform many essential duties that don’t fall neatly into other crew members’ responsibilities, including making copies of the script, moving equipment, performing light research, helping camera operators set up shots, assisting visitors, and responding to requests by members of the cast and crew. It’s typical for PAs to take food or coffee orders for talent, clients, or other workers on set and facilitate their pickup or delivery. You also may be asked to fulfill special requests. You usually work on film or television sets or in studios, but the job is essentially the same regardless of the scale of the production.

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

To thrive as a Production Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of film or television production processes, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant coursework. Familiarity with scheduling software, walkie-talkie communication protocols, and general office tools is typically required. Outstanding communication, adaptability, and the ability to work well under pressure help set top candidates apart. These skills ensure smooth production operations, efficient problem-solving, and effective support for cast and crew on fast-paced sets.

What are some common challenges production assistants face on set, and how can they prepare for them?

Production Assistants (PAs) often encounter fast-paced environments, last-minute changes, and the need to juggle multiple tasks at once. It's common to be asked to assist with everything from setting up equipment to coordinating crew movements. To prepare, PAs should develop strong organizational and communication skills, stay adaptable, and always be proactive about anticipating the needs of the team. Building good relationships with crew members and maintaining a positive attitude even under pressure can make these challenges manageable and help you stand out for future opportunities.

What is the difference between Production Assistant vs Production Coordinator?

AspectProduction AssistantProduction Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer related courseworkHigh school diploma; often a bachelor's degree in film, media, or related field
Work EnvironmentOn set, assisting with daily tasks, supporting crewOffice and on-set, coordinating schedules and logistics
Employer & Industry UsageFilm, TV, commercials, theaterFilm, TV, commercials, event production
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles support production teams, a Production Assistant primarily handles on-set tasks and general support, whereas a Production Coordinator manages scheduling, logistics, and communication to ensure smooth operations throughout the project.

Can I be a production assistant without a degree?

Production assistants typically do not need a college degree to start in the role, as employers often prioritize relevant skills, such as organization, communication, and familiarity with production equipment. Entry-level positions may require some on-the-job training, and having a high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient. Certifications in safety or equipment operation can be beneficial but are not mandatory.

How hard is it to get a job as a production assistant?

Getting a job as a production assistant can be competitive, especially in popular media markets, but entry-level positions are often available for those with basic organizational skills and a willingness to work long hours. Many employers value relevant experience, such as internships or related coursework, and some may require a valid driver's license or the ability to work flexible schedules.

How much can you make as a production assistant?

Production assistants typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, with entry-level positions often paying around minimum wage and experienced assistants earning higher rates. Salaries can vary based on location, industry, and the complexity of the production, and some may receive overtime pay or per diems for travel and long hours.
More about Production Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Production jobs in Waterloo, IA?

The most popular types of Production jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What job categories do people searching Production Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Production Assistant jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Production Assistant jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Production Assistant job openings:

Production Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Production Assistant job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,686 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Production Supervisor

Genie Matthews and Associates

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$75/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Production Supervisor

Location: Waterloo, Iowa

Salary: $75-85K

Job Summary of the Production Supervisor: The Production Supervisor will be part of the manufacturing team in support of the Director of Operations and Production Manager. Manufactures products by supervising staff; organizing and monitoring workflow; acts as a quality inspector; serves as a safety coordinator, material handler, and trainer for the area of responsibility.

Job Duties & Responsibilities of the Production Supervisor:

  • Complete production plan by scheduling and assigning personnel; accomplishing work results; establishing priorities; monitoring schedules; resolving problems; reporting results of the processing flow on shift production summaries.
  • Accomplish manufacturing staff results by communicating job expectations; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; coaching, counseling, and disciplining employees; initiating, coordinating, and enforcing systems, policies, and procedures.
  • Maintain staff by selecting, orienting, and training employees, and developing personal growth opportunities.
  • Maintain workflow by monitoring steps of the process; setting processing variables; observing control points and equipment; monitoring personnel and resources; studying methods; implementing cost reductions; developing reporting procedures and systems; facilitating corrections to malfunctions within process control points; initiating and fostering a spirit of cooperation within and between departments.
  • Spends 50% of their time in direct labor in the area of responsibility.
  • Identify and anticipate safety and health concerns and hazards by surveying environmental, operational, and occupational conditions.
  • Act as the quality inspector for areas of responsibility; maintains quality of service by establishing and enforcing organization standards.
  • Ensure that all direct and indirect materials are readily available for production team members to carry out their duties efficiently and effectively.
  • Encourage production team members by helping to select, orient, and train employees; developing personal growth opportunities for team members.
  • Provide manufacturing information by compiling, initiating, sorting, and analyzing production performance records and data; answer questions and respond to requests.
  • Accomplish production team results by communicating job expectations; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; coaching, counseling, and training employees; initiating, coordinating, and ensuring policies and procedures are followed.
  • Maintain a safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.
  • Contribute to the team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.

Education & Experience of the Production Supervisor:

  • High School diploma or GED required.
  • 3+ years of experience in manufacturing.
  • 3+ years of supervisory experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and generate results through others.
  • Ability to perform problem analysis and problem resolution at a functional level.
  • Demonstrated commitment to quality.
  • Demonstrated commitment to safety.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Must have a strong customer orientation.
  • Must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Basic computer skills with understanding of Microsoft products.

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