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Receiving Dock Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Retail Sales Associate

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $18.75/hr

... as you assist in the receiving of merchandise, maintain the stockroom to LEGO Brand Retail ... dock area * Physical specifications: Constant moving, talking, hearing, reaching, grabbing and ...

Retail Sales Associate

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $18.75/hr

... you assist in the receiving of merchandise, maintain the stockroom to LEGO ® Brand Retail ... dock area * Physical specifications: Constant moving, talking, hearing, reaching, grabbing and ...

Warehouse Associate

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Shipping and Receiving * Greet and direct delivery drivers to dock area * Receive, inspect for damage, record and tag for inventory tracking purposes * Inspect, load and secure outgoing freight and ...

Showing results 21-40

Receiving Dock Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do receiving dock associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for receiving dock associate in Iowa is $16.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a receiving dock associate?

Receiving Dock Associates are responsible for unloading, inspecting, and processing incoming shipments at warehouses, stores, or distribution centers. They verify the accuracy of deliveries, check for damages, and ensure items are properly documented and stored in the correct locations. This role often requires attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to operate equipment such as forklifts or pallet jacks. Receiving Dock Associates play a crucial part in maintaining an efficient supply chain and inventory management system.

What is the difference between Receiving Dock Associate vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectReceiving Dock AssociateWarehouse Associate
Primary RoleUnloading, inspecting, and recording incoming shipments at the dockManaging inventory, picking, packing, and shipping orders within the warehouse
Work EnvironmentDock area, loading docks, shipping/receiving zonesWarehouse floor, storage areas, inventory zones
CredentialsBasic forklift certification often preferred, physical staminaBasic forklift certification often preferred, physical stamina
Industry UsageCommon in logistics, manufacturing, retail distributionCommon in logistics, manufacturing, retail distribution

Receiving Dock Associates focus on unloading and inspecting incoming shipments at the dock, ensuring accurate recording and handling. Warehouse Associates handle broader inventory management, order fulfillment, and internal storage tasks. Both roles often require similar certifications and work in related environments, but their primary responsibilities differ within the supply chain process.

What are some typical challenges a receiving dock associate may face during busy periods, and how can they effectively manage them?

During peak times, Receiving Dock Associates often encounter high volumes of shipments arriving simultaneously, which can lead to time pressure and space constraints. Staying organized, communicating clearly with team members, and prioritizing urgent deliveries are key to managing these challenges. Familiarity with warehouse management systems and efficient use of equipment like pallet jacks or forklifts also help ensure smooth operations. Maintaining attention to detail when checking shipments for accuracy and damage, even under pressure, is essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a receiving dock associate?

To thrive as a Receiving Dock Associate, you need a solid understanding of inventory management, attention to detail, and the ability to operate material handling equipment, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, and forklifts or pallet jacks is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you work efficiently and adapt to changing demands. These skills ensure accurate inventory control, safe handling of goods, and smooth workflow in a fast-paced warehouse environment.
What job categories do people searching Receiving Dock Associate jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Receiving Dock Associate jobs in Iowa are:

Donation Associate - Eastgate

Goodwill of the Great Plains

Sioux City, IA • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 8 days ago


Job description


We are seeking a Donation Associate to become an important part of our team! In this position you will help provide exceptional customer service while receiving donated merchandise and doing initial presort of those materials.

Position Type: Full-Time 11-7:30pm Sunday, Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

Wages: $15.00 hourly

In accordance with the Goodwill of the Great Plains mission, we are committed to providing a competitive total compensation package, including salary and benefits, that will attract, retain, and reward high performing employees who share a passion for transforming lives through the dignity of work. Goodwill of the Great Plains strives to make employee compensation performance-based, competitive to organizations with similar missions, and commensurate for the individual’s level of responsibility

Responsibilities:

  • Accept donations from the public in a respectful, courteous, safe, and efficient manner.
  • Provide excellent customer service, including thanking each donor and offering to fill out donation receipts.
  • Follow store protocol for accepting donated items. Inform donors when we cannot accept their item and suggest alternatives. Follow safety protocols for loading and unloading items.
  • Presort donated materials and move to assigned areas
  • Load and unload materials by hand, pallet jack, hand truck or forklift after Goodwill forklift certification is attained, as assigned
  • Push or pull carts, racks and/or crates to and from dock area, dump areas, storage areas, and production or retail areas
  • Price, sort, test, and hang donated materials as needed

Qualifications:

  • Ability to learn how to safely operate pallet jack and/or forklift
  • High school graduate/GED preferred, but not required.

While the benefits are great, Goodwill’s mission is really at the heart of all we do. When you join the Goodwill team you are not just joining the company, you are becoming part of our family. You could be eligible for a Personal Day, Birthday Day Off, and 6 Paid Holidays upon hire. With eligibility for Health Dental, and Vision Insurance after 30 days of employment. See more benefit details on the careers tab at www.goodwillgreatplains.org. Apply today to become a part of something great!

Goodwill of the Great Plains provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to any characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.