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Production Helper Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Hourly Production

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$25.01/hr

General Helper/Hourly Production Category/Shift: Hourly Full-Time, 3rd shift - 6:00pm - 6:00am, 24/7 Schedule (3 days on, 2 days off, etc), 3-day weekends every other week, predictable bi-weekly ...

... helping to select, orient, and train employees; developing personal growth opportunities for team members. • Provide manufacturing information by compiling, initiating, sorting, and analyzing ...

Encourage production team members by helping to select, orient, and train employees; developing personal growth opportunities for team members. * Provide manufacturing information by compiling ...

Encourage production team members by helping to select, orient, and train employees; developing personal growth opportunities for team members. Provide manufacturing information by compiling ...

Encourage production team members by helping to select, orient, and train employees; developing personal growth opportunities for team members. * Provide manufacturing information by compiling ...

Encourage production team members by helping to select, orient, and train employees; developing personal growth opportunities for team members. * Provide manufacturing information by compiling ...

... helping to select, orient, and train employees; developing personal growth opportunities for team members. · Provide manufacturing information by compiling, initiating, sorting, and analyzing ...

... help businesses simplify their workday and keep their teams safe, confident, and focused on what ... More than a provider, we are a partner in productivity, trusted to keep you running. Join us and ...

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Production Helper information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do production helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for production helper in Waterloo, IA is $16.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a production helper?

To thrive as a Production Helper, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, hand tools, and sometimes basic computer systems or inventory software is often required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions set standout candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production workflows, ensuring workplace safety, and supporting overall manufacturing goals.

What is the difference between Production Helper vs Production Worker?

AspectProduction HelperProduction Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; may require specific certifications for specialized roles
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, assembly linesFactories, manufacturing plants, assembly lines
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing and assembly industriesUsed across various manufacturing sectors, often with more specialized tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with basic tasks, support production line, prepare materialsPerform specific production tasks, operate machinery, ensure quality

In summary, a Production Helper typically assists with basic tasks and supports the production process, while a Production Worker performs more specialized tasks and operates machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What is a typical production helper's salary?

A production helper's salary typically ranges from $12 to $20 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the industry. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while experienced helpers or those working in specialized environments can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials may also affect overall pay.

What challenges do production helpers face in a fast-paced manufacturing environment?

Production Helpers often work in environments where meeting tight deadlines and maintaining high-quality standards are essential. One common challenge is quickly adapting to changes in production schedules or unexpected equipment issues. Additionally, the physical demands of the job, such as standing for long periods and handling materials, require stamina and attention to safety protocols. Effective communication with machine operators and other team members is also crucial to ensure smooth workflow and address any issues promptly.

What is a production helper?

Production Helpers are entry-level workers in manufacturing or industrial settings who assist machine operators and production teams with various tasks. Their duties often include preparing materials, cleaning work areas, moving products, and supporting the assembly or packaging process. Production Helpers play a crucial role in keeping operations running smoothly by ensuring that equipment is supplied and workspaces are organized. The position usually requires physical stamina and the ability to follow safety guidelines. Training is typically provided on the job, making it a common starting point for careers in manufacturing.
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 cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Production Helper jobs? Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Production Helper job openings:

Hourly Production

International Paper

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$25.01/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


International Paper rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 291 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

320th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

Position Title:

General Helper/Hourly Production

Category/Shift: 

Hourly Full-Time, 3rd shift - 6:00pm - 6:00am, 24/7 Schedule (3 days on, 2 days off, etc), 3-day weekends every other week, predictable bi-weekly rotation schedule.

Starting Pay Rate - $25.01/hour

Physical Location:

International Paper - Waterloo Box Plant 

800 W Parker Street

Waterloo, IA 50703

For a realistic preview of working for International Paper, please click the links below:

https://vimeo.com/677324578/6d7ca1d97a

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAS_aV1D_1I 

The Job You Will Perform: 

  • Safe manufacturing procedures

  • Operating fast paced machinery

  • Inspecting, counting and stacking finished product

  • Reading manufacturing orders

  • Accurately reading tape measures, gauges and other test equipment

  • Utilizing basic shop math

  • Accurately completing quality and administrative documents and following directions

  • Clean-up functions such as blowing down machine, wiping off shafts, cleaning ink systems, vacuuming, sweeping machine area as well as picking up and shredding scrap

The Skills You Will Bring: 

  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • High school diploma/GED preferred or equivalent work experience
  • Experience in a manufacturing environment is a plus
  • Focus on safety
  • Customer service
  • Basic math
  • Reading
  • Detail Oriented
  • Quality Control
The Benefits You Will Enjoy:
International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare and retirement plans including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision and pets

The Career You Will Build:
Leadership training, promotional opportunities
The Impact You Will Make:
We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 125 years. Join our team and you'll see why our team members say they're Proud to be IP.
The Culture You Will Experience:
International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring and inclusive workplaces. We have team members all around the world with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. These are our strengths. We are committed to creating a culture where all individuals are respected, valued, engaged and have an opportunity to do their best work every day. We invite you to bring your uniqueness, creativity, talents, experiences, and safety mindset to be a part of our increasingly inclusive and diverse culture.
The Company You Will Join:
International Paper (NYSE: IP; LSE: IPC) creates sustainable packaging solutions that enable our customers, teammates and shareowners to thrive in an ever-changing world. We are a leader in corrugated packaging, partnering with customers across industries to protect what matters most, strengthen supply chains and create lasting value. Learn more at internationalpaper.com.

International Paper is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.  International Paper complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact reasonable.accommodations@ipaper.com or (877) 973-3919.


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About International Paper

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

International Paper is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion.

Industry

Paper manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US

Year founded

1898