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Shredder Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Summary A shredder is a massive industrial machine - a powerful hammer mill - that crushes and tears entire end-of-life vehicles and scrap metal into fist-sized metal and material chunks in less than ...

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Perhaps you are clearing your clutter with shredder from Rexel and storage boxes from Esselte or using a glue or nail gun from Rapid to create your next home project. Whatever products you are using ...

Perhaps you are clearing your clutter with shredder from Rexel and storage boxes from Esselte or using a glue or nail gun from Rapid to create your next home project. Whatever products you are using ...

Shredder information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$19

$29

How much do shredder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for shredder in Iowa is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the shredder position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Shredder, you need strong attention to detail, physical stamina, and an understanding of safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent experience. Familiarity with industrial shredding equipment, basic maintenance tools, and sometimes forklift operation is typically required. Reliability, thoroughness, and the ability to focus on repetitive tasks are key soft skills for this position. These skills ensure the secure and efficient destruction of confidential materials while maintaining a safe and productive work environment.

What is a shredder?

A Shredder is responsible for operating shredding machines to destroy documents, materials, or products securely. They ensure compliance with confidentiality regulations and safety protocols. The role may involve sorting materials, maintaining equipment, and disposing of shredded waste properly. Shredders often work in industries handling sensitive information, such as document destruction services or recycling facilities.

What are the typical responsibilities and work conditions for a shredder?

Shredders are primarily responsible for operating shredding machinery to securely destroy confidential documents, digital media, or materials according to company or regulatory standards. The role often involves standing for extended periods, handling heavy loads, and adhering closely to safety and confidentiality protocols. Work is commonly performed in warehouse or industrial environments, sometimes as part of a small team that may rotate duties to maintain efficiency. Shredders frequently collaborate with supervisors and logistics staff to track material flow and ensure compliance with data destruction policies. Many companies also provide on-the-job training and opportunities to advance into supervisory or machine maintenance roles.

What are popular job titles related to Shredder jobs in Iowa? For Shredder jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Shredder job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,200 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Shredder Operator

Alter Trading Corp

Waterloo, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Alter Trading rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Summary

A shredder is a massive industrial machine - a powerful hammer mill - that crushes and tears entire end-of-life vehicles and scrap metal into fist-sized metal and material chunks in less than a minute. Alter Metal Recycling in Waterloo, IA is looking for a Shredder Operator to run this giant machine. The core daily work includes controlling the shredder system, feeding material via conveyors, and monitoring machine safety.

  • Monitor the shredder from a control room or main station to keep the metal flow steady.
  • Adjust heavy feed rolls and conveyor speeds to prevent jams.
  • Check system loads, power draws, and output quality to ensure the machinery runs smoothly.
  • Run pre-shift checks on belts, hammers, and electrical controls.
  • Communicate with yard workers and heavy equipment operators who load material into the feed system.
  • Ensure environmental and safety rules are met before and during processing.
  • Fil minor mechanical or electrical problems during slowdowns.
  • Lead repair tasks and change worn-out parts like shredder hammers or liners when the plant is shut down.
  • Clear out unexpected heavy blockage or non-shredded waste safely .
  • Combination of standing and sitting while shredding
  • Climbs stairs to the shredder tower.
  • Use of arms and hands to control the shredder
  • Other responsibilities as assigned

Safety:

Wears all necessary PPE when working in the yard. Follows company safety standards at all times. Failure to follow standards, may result in loss of position.

Requirements:

Prior experience operating heavy machine preferred. Basic machine maintenance knowledge preferred.


What Alter Trading employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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