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Production Associate Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Martin Marietta

Production Management Associate

Ames, IA

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Summary: Reporting to the Plant Manager, the Production Management Associate will enter an 18 to 24-month formal training program to learn the Aggregates business and develop production and ...

Martin Marietta

Production Management Associate

Ames, IA

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Summary: Reporting to the Plant Manager, the Production Management Associate will enter an 18 to 24-month formal training program to learn the Aggregates business and develop production and ...

Martin Marietta

Production Management Associate

Ames, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Summary: Reporting to the Plant Manager, the Production Management Associate will enter an 18 to 24-month formal training program to learn the Aggregates business and develop production and ...

Hyve Solutions

Production Supervisor

Nevada, IA

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Engineering, Manufacturing, Business Administration) preferred. 5+ years of experience in a production or manufacturing environment, with ...

APC Worldwide

Production Operator- APC

Boone, IA

$16.50 - $20/hr

Perform tasks of receiving product, starting, running, shutting down, and cleaning the dryer/evaporator and associate equipment. * Collect hourly production readings, color, moisture and temperature ...

Lauridsen Group, Inc.

Production Operator- APC

Boone, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Perform tasks of receiving product, starting, running, shutting down, and cleaning the dryer/evaporator and associate equipment. * Collect hourly production readings, color, moisture and temperature ...

APC Worldwide

Production Operator- APC

Boone, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Perform tasks of receiving product, starting, running, shutting down, and cleaning the dryer/evaporator and associate equipment. * Collect hourly production readings, color, moisture and temperature ...

Lauridsen Group, Inc.

Production Operator- APC

Boone, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Perform tasks of receiving product, starting, running, shutting down, and cleaning the dryer/evaporator and associate equipment. * Collect hourly production readings, color, moisture and temperature ...

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Production Associate information

See Ames, IA salary details

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How much do production associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for production associate in Ames, IA is $16.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $17.88 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.
More about Production Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Production jobs in Ames, IA? The most popular types of Production jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Production Associate jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Production Associate job openings:
Production Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Production Associate job openings in Ames, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,233 per year, or $16.5 per hour.
Production Associate

Production Associate

Cornerstone Church

Ames, IA

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Click HERE for the Production Associate job description.

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