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Union Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Welder Helper - Mason City, IA

Mason City, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

For this position, you will be required to become a Union Pacific certified driver during your ... Skilled in operating heavy equipment such as construction or farm machinery, with relevant ...

Hydrovac Operator

Newton, IA

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Salary: Union wages and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager. Badger ... Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments ...

Hydrovac Operator

Newton, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Union wages and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager. Responsibilities What You'll Be Doing: * Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working ...

Saw Operator

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Our Dubuque, Iowa facility is a union manufacturing plant with approximately 10 employees. The site specializes in fabricating polyurethane foam products for a variety of industrial and specialty ...

Showing results 21-40

Union Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in Iowa is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $20.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a union operator?

Union Operators are skilled workers who operate heavy machinery and equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, or forklifts, typically as members of a labor union. They are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of this equipment on construction sites, in warehouses, or in industrial settings. Being part of a union means that these operators have specific protections, benefits, and negotiated wages. Union Operators often must complete specialized training and certification to ensure they meet safety standards and operational requirements.

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

To thrive as a Union Operator, you need a strong background in operating heavy machinery, understanding safety protocols, and relevant union apprenticeship training or certification. Familiarity with equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators, as well as knowledge of OSHA regulations and computerized control systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for coordinating with crew members and maintaining a safe work environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure efficient, safe operations and compliance with industry standards on construction or industrial sites.

What are some common challenges union operators face on the job site, and how can they prepare for them?

Union Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing project demands, working in various weather conditions, and coordinating with multiple trades on busy job sites. To prepare, it's important to stay up-to-date with safety protocols, maintain strong communication with supervisors and team members, and continually refresh equipment operation skills through union training programs. Being adaptable and proactive in addressing potential issues can help Union Operators excel and contribute effectively to their team.

What is the difference between Union Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectUnion OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, union certificationHigh school diploma, technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUnionized construction and industrial companiesManufacturing and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Union Operator and Machine Operator roles share similarities in industrial settings, requiring safety training and technical skills. However, Union Operators are typically part of unionized construction or industrial teams, focusing on heavy equipment and site operations, while Machine Operators work mainly in manufacturing environments operating specific machinery. Both roles are essential in their industries and often compared by job seekers seeking similar industrial or manufacturing careers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Union Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Union Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $39,203 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

OnPack Operator 2nd Shift

Kraft Heinz

Cedar Rapids, IA

$24.52/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Kraft Heinz rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 123 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

232nd of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job DescriptionOnPack Operator - 2nd Shift: 2:30pm-11:00pmLocation:

Kraft Heinz - Cedar Rapids

4601 C Street SW

Cedar Rapids, IA, 52404

Plant Overview:

3-Shift Operation

Non- Union Facility with approximately 200 hourly staff members which are a mix of temporary and full-time associates.

100% Food Service, 4 bag soup lines, 1 tub line, 18 Kettles, 5 Filling lines, and 4 packaging lines.

Products include Frozen Soups and Macaroni & Cheese

Company History: Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids started as Ashby Soups and was originated in the mid 1980's by Jamie and Shannon Ashby, along with their mother, using family held recipes for many kinds of soups. In the 1990s' the name was changed to Quality Chef Foods. Heinz acquired Quality Chef foods in the mid 2000's. In 2015 Kraft and Heinz merged to become Kraft Heinz as we know it today.

Community Overview:

The Cedar Rapids and Iowa City area is known as the cultural corridor. There is always something to do, a site to visit or a show to see! Also, from Cedar Rapids there is an easy commute, great school communities, low crime rates and bike friendly. Cost of living ratio great. Cedar Rapids is a vibrant city, encompassing unique attractions, exciting events, specialty shopping, a dynamic art scene, and a large variety of restaurant and nightlife options. You'll find that Cedar Rapids offers one of the best places to live, work and play in the Midwest.

More information on Cedar Rapids, IA can be found at: http://www.cedar-rapids.org/

Job Overview:

Are you ready to join a team that produces quality products that are amongst over 50 household brands in the U.S.? This is a place for you to create your career and make a difference! Kraft Heinz in Cedar Rapids is looking for candidates that want to make great soups!

Ensure the machines are setup correctly and ensure all products are being run efficiently with special attention to quality and safety.

Responsibilities & Duties:

  • Operate Onpack machines, must be familiar with settings for all varieties of products
  • Assemble on-pack machine, including X-Rays
  • Sanitize conveyer buckets
  • Hook up pipes to the kettles
  • Name, code, and date product
  • Monitor accurate temperature
  • Return/Retrieve preweigh carts from prep/blanch
  • Documentation of times, temps, and weights
  • Accurately document required information into IQS
  • Challenge metal detector and X-Ray
  • Change film
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
  • Ability to communicate effectively.
  • Ability to work independently and with others.
  • Must be able to work in a safe manner.
  • Must ensure quality products are being packaged.
  • Responsible for following all Food Safety Policies and Safety Procedures. Responsible for Q-RMP standards implementation as defined by the accountability list document
  • Employees will follow all safety protocols and perform their job responsibilities in a safe manner. Safety is everyone's responsibility.
  • Successful candidates must have the willingness to:

Always perform to the highest level of competence. Cooperate as a team. Be open, especially with information and knowledge. Trust and be trustworthy. Respect others - customers, suppliers, colleagues - and yourself. Be accountable for one's actions.

Benefits & Compensation Overview:

Medical.

Dental.

Vision.

Additional perks: Pet Insurance, (EAP) Employee Assistance Program, etc.

(HRA) Health Reimbursement Account or (HSA) Health Savings Account.

Pay Rate: $24.52

Start earning PTO at hire, generous

Non-Union (FOIP) Field Operations Incentive Plan- BONUS PLAN

Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and savingfor the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coveragefor benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire aphysical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.

You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:

  • Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments

  • Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Recognition, Training

  • Emotional - Employee Assistance Program, Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs

  • Financial - 401k,Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)

Quality Chef - Cedar Rapids

Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer that prohibits discrimination or harassment of any type. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the job application or hiring process should contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com.


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