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Special Operations Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Pottawattamie County

Snowcat Operator

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

The Snowcat Operator is responsible for the safe operation and light maintenance of a snowcat to create quality snow surfaces for skiing and riding to support day-to-day operations and special events.

Dayton Freight

Operations Supervisor

Altoona, IA · On-site

Effectively handle special assignments as directed * Knowledge of the LTL/ Transportation Industry ... operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with physical dock tasks such as ...

Dayton Freight

Operations Supervisor

Altoona, IA · On-site

Effectively handle special assignments as directed Qualifications * Knowledge of the LTL ... operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with physical dock tasks such as ...

Dayton Freight

Operations Supervisor

Altoona, IA · On-site

Effectively handle special assignments as directed Qualifications * Knowledge of the LTL ... operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with physical dock tasks such as ...

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Special Operations Operator information

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$7

$18

$26

How much do special operations operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for special operations operator in Iowa is $18.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special operations operator?

Special Operations Operators are highly trained military personnel who conduct specialized missions that go beyond the capabilities of conventional military forces. Their duties often include counterterrorism, reconnaissance, direct action, hostage rescue, and unconventional warfare. Operators are selected through a rigorous process and receive advanced training in areas such as weapons handling, survival, tactics, and languages. They frequently work in small, elite teams and are deployed in challenging and high-risk environments around the world.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a special operations operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Special Operations Operator, you need advanced physical fitness, tactical proficiency, and specialized military training, often acquired through rigorous selection programs like Navy SEALs or Army Special Forces. Expertise with weapons systems, communications technology, and survival equipment is essential, along with relevant military certifications. Exceptional teamwork, resilience, and decision-making under pressure are crucial soft skills for operating in high-stress, unpredictable environments. These competencies ensure mission success, personal safety, and effective coordination in demanding and often dangerous operations.

What are some common challenges special operations operators face during missions, and how are they supported to overcome them?

Special Operations Operators often encounter challenges such as operating in high-stress, unpredictable environments, coordinating with multiple agencies, and adapting quickly to changing mission parameters. They are supported through rigorous training, access to advanced equipment, and strong team cohesion that fosters trust and clear communication. Additionally, operators have access to mental health resources and regular debriefings to help manage stress and maintain peak performance.

What is the difference between Special Operations Operator vs Combat Medic?

AspectSpecial Operations OperatorCombat Medic
Required CredentialsMilitary training, special operations qualification, security clearanceMedical certifications, EMT or paramedic license, military medical training
Work EnvironmentHigh-risk, covert missions in diverse terrainsField medical support in combat zones or emergency settings
Employer & IndustryMilitary special forces unitsMilitary, emergency services, or civilian medical units

Special Operations Operators and Combat Medics both serve in military environments, but their roles differ significantly. Operators focus on covert, high-risk missions requiring specialized combat skills, while Combat Medics provide medical support and emergency care in combat zones. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations in military special operations.

What are popular job titles related to Special Operations Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Special Operations Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Special Operations Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Special Operations Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Special Operations Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Special Operations Operator job openings:

Special Operations Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Operations Operator job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,739 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Special Operations Forces: Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)

Davenport, IA • On-site

U.S. Navy
National Security • 10K+ employees
Learn more about U.S. Navyexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 381 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Special Operations Forces: Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR)

Are you ready to challenge yourself in a role that demands courage, skill, and a strong sense of duty? As an Aviation Rescue Swimmer (AIRR), you will be part of an elite team trained to execute daring rescues in treacherous conditions, providing lifesaving support wherever it is needed.

What Does an Aviation Rescue Swimmer Do?

As an AIRR, you will serve as a first responder in high-risk situations, ensuring the safety of military personnel and civilians alike. Whether facing turbulent seas, towering waves, or dangerous combat zones, you will be trained to locate and extract individuals in distress.

Your primary responsibilities may include:

-Performing search and rescue (SAR) operations in open waters, swift currents, and hazardous conditions.

-Conducting emergency medical care to stabilize injured personnel during recovery missions.

-Operating from helicopters such as the MH-60 Seahawk to execute air-sea rescues.

-Supporting humanitarian and disaster relief efforts, providing aid in times of crisis.

-Working alongside pilots and aircrew to plan and execute precision rescue missions.

-Undergoing advanced survival training, including underwater egress, free-fall parachuting, and other specialized skills.

Why Choose a Career as an AIRR?

-Elite Training: Gain advanced skills in survival, aviation, and rescue techniques through some of the most rigorous training available.

-Adventure & Impact: Every mission presents a unique challenge—whether assisting during natural disasters or conducting military operations, your work will save lives.

-Career Growth: Leverage your experience to transition into leadership roles, advanced technical fields, or specialized operations within the Navy and beyond.

-Competitive Benefits: Enjoy exceptional healthcare, educational assistance, travel opportunities, and financial incentives.

Who Are We Looking For?

-The ideal Aviation Rescue Swimmer candidate is:

-Physically and mentally resilient, capable of enduring challenging environments.

-A strong swimmer, comfortable in open water and high-stress situations.

-A team player with excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

-Adaptable, ready to take on unpredictable and dynamic missions.

If you are passionate about pushing your limits while making a direct impact on people's lives, this career path could be for you.

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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