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Production Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Job Title Production Operator We offer: * Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified. * Pay increases throughout the first year of employment. * Medical, vision ...

Production Associate Our Snap-on Tool Storage plant located in Algona, Iowa is looking for Production Associates. Wages start at $23.20 with increases every 30 days worked until you reach top pay of ...

Overview Production Associate Our Snap-on Tool Storage plant located in Algona, Iowa is looking for Production Associates. Wages start at $23.20 with increases every 30 days worked until you reach ...

Overview Production Associate Our Snap-on Tool Storage plant located in Algona, Iowa is looking for Production Associates. Wages start at $23.20 with increases every 30 days worked until you reach ...

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Production Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do production associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for production associate in Iowa is $15.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Production Associate, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with assembly line machinery, inventory management systems, and safety protocols such as OSHA standards is typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that set candidates apart. These skills ensure efficient production workflows, product quality, and a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Production Associate vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectProduction AssociateManufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical certifications or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, assembly lines, production floorsManufacturing plants, quality control labs, equipment maintenance areas
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, assembly, packaging industriesManufacturing, industrial production, equipment maintenance sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level manufacturing rolesTechnical skills and equipment operation in manufacturing

The main difference between a Production Associate and a Manufacturing Technician lies in their responsibilities and skill requirements. Production Associates typically perform basic assembly and packaging tasks with minimal technical training, while Manufacturing Technicians handle equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and more technical duties. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, but Manufacturing Technicians usually require additional technical certifications or vocational training.

What are some typical challenges Production Associates face when adjusting to fast-paced manufacturing environments?

Production Associates often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing production schedules, maintaining high attention to detail while working efficiently, and learning to operate various machinery safely. Additionally, they must quickly become familiar with strict quality standards and safety protocols. Collaborating effectively with team members and supervisors is essential to ensure smooth workflow and meet production targets.

What is the role of a Production Associate?

A Production Associate is responsible for assisting in the manufacturing process by operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring quality standards are met. They often work in a team environment, follow safety protocols, and may use tools or equipment specific to the production line.

What jobs pay 70k a year with an associate's degree?

Production associates can earn around $70,000 annually in roles that involve skilled manufacturing, quality control, or supervisory responsibilities, especially in industries like aerospace, automotive, or electronics. Advancing to supervisory or specialized technical positions, often requiring certifications or experience, can also lead to higher pay with an associate's degree.

What are Production Associates?

Production Associates are entry-level workers who assist in the manufacturing process within factories or production facilities. Their responsibilities typically include assembling products, operating machinery, monitoring production lines, and ensuring quality standards are met. They may also be responsible for packaging, labeling, and basic maintenance of equipment. Production Associates play a crucial role in maintaining efficient workflow and supporting higher-level technicians or supervisors. The role often requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to follow safety protocols.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Production associates typically do not earn $4,000 a week without advanced skills or supervisory roles. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include specialized trades like commercial pilots, certain sales positions, or skilled trades such as electricians or plumbers with experience, but these usually require certifications or apprenticeships. Most roles paying this much without a degree are rare and often involve high risk or significant experience.

What Are the Duties of a Production Associate?

A production associate’s job duties depend on the industry in which they work. If you’re a manufacturing production associate, then your responsibilities include maintaining production equipment and assemblies, ensuring quality control, overseeing manufacturing personnel, ordering materials, monitoring packaging and shipping of the product, and handling clerical tasks like work orders and documentation. As a production associate in the film and TV industry, your duties include hiring and scheduling actors and technical staff, resolving technical challenges such as equipment failure, and maintaining relationships with suppliers and vendors.

Is a Production Associate a good job?

A Production Associate role involves assisting in manufacturing or assembly processes, often requiring physical activity and attention to safety protocols. It can offer steady employment, opportunities for skill development, and entry into manufacturing industries, but may involve shift work and repetitive tasks. Overall, it can be a good job for those seeking hands-on work and career growth in production environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Production jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Production jobs in Iowa are:
What job categories do people searching Production Associate jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Production Associate jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Production Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Production Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Production Associate job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,870 per year, or $15.8 per hour.
Production Associate

Production Associate

3M

Knoxville, IA

$24.96/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


3M rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 242 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 535 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Description:
Job Title
Production Operator
We offer:
  • Competitive pay starting at $24.96 and can go up to $ 29.34 /hour once certified.
  • Pay increases throughout the first year of employment.
  • Medical, vision, dental, and life insurance starting on your first day.
  • 401k with generous company match
  • Up to three weeks paid vacation in your first year.
  • Twelve (12) company holidays
  • Employee assistance program and medical support
  • On-site cafeteria
  • Opportunities for advancement

The Impact You'll Make in this Role
As a Production Operator, you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative and diverse people around the world. Here, you will make an impact by:
  • Demonstrates safe work behavior to avoid injury to self and others.
  • Follow operating procedures and customer specifications to produce quality products which are delivered to customers.
  • Leading innovation and sustainability.
  • Creating a positive, inclusive work environment that fosters learning and development for all.
  • Implementing change and continuous improvement to drive growth and increase efficiency.

Your Skills and Expertise
To set you up for success in this role from day one, 3M requires (at a minimum) the following qualifications:
  • Possess a High School Diploma/GED or higher.
  • Minimum six (6) months of manufacturing experience.
  • Must be able to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as scheduled working 8 to 12 consecutive hours per day on a weekly fixed (i.e., 3pm-11pm, 11pm-7am, and 7pm-7am)

***Applicants meeting the basic qualifications above may be required to take and pass 3M elected testing as a part of the selection process
Additional qualifications that could help you succeed even further in this role include:
  • One (1) or more years of manufacturing experience
  • Ability to use and operate computers to run processes

Work location:
  • Knoxville, IA

Travel: None
Relocation Assistance: Is Not Authorized
The starting rate of pay for this position is $24.30 and can go up to
$ 29.34 /hour once certified. This targeted compensation range represents a good faith estimate and can vary based on factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Other benefits and incentives may apply; pay and benefits overview: This information is being disclosed in accordance with local Pay Transparency Rules.
Must be legally authorized to work in country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status).
Supporting Your Well-being
3M offers many programs to help you live your best life - both physically and financially. To ensure competitive pay and benefits, 3M regularly benchmarks with other companies that are comparable in size and scope.
Chat with Max
For assistance with searching through our current job openings or for more information about all things 3M, visit Max, our virtual recruiting assistant on 3M.com/careers.
#INDPROD
All US-based 3M full time employees will need to sign an employee agreement as a condition of employment with 3M. This agreement lays out key terms on using 3M Confidential Information and Trade Secrets. It also has provisions discussing conflicts of interest and how inventions are assigned. Employees that are Job Grade 7 or equivalent and above may also have obligations to not compete against 3M or solicit its employees or customers, both during their employment, and for a period after they leave 3M.
Learn more about 3M's creative solutions to the world's problems at www.3M.com or on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @3M.
Responsibilities of this position include that corporate policies, procedures and security standards are complied with while performing assigned duties.
Safety is a core value at 3M. All employees are expected to contribute to a strong Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) culture by following safety policies, identifying hazards, and engaging in continuous improvement.
Pay & Benefits Overview:
3M does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Please note: your application may not be considered if you do not provide your education and work history, either by: 1) uploading a resume, or 2) entering the information into the application fields directly.
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