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Utility Plant Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Agropur Cooperative

Whey Utility Operator

Hull, IA · On-site

The Whey Utility Operator I develops and maintains a working knowledge of all whey plant positions to assist with personnel shortages thereby meeting manufacturing requirements in accordance with ...

3M

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA)

Pella, IA · On-site

$37.28/hr

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA) Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where ... Learning to follow corporate, plant and department procedures always relating to work and safety ...

3M

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA)

Knoxville, IA · On-site

$37.28/hr

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA) Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where ... Learning to follow corporate, plant and department procedures always relating to work and safety ...

3M

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA)

Prairie City, IA · On-site

$37.28/hr

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA) Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where ... Learning to follow corporate, plant and department procedures always relating to work and safety ...

3M

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA)

Knoxville, IA · On-site

$37.28/hr

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA) Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where ... Learning to follow corporate, plant and department procedures always relating to work and safety ...

3M

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA)

Tracy, IA · On-site

$37.28/hr

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA) Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where ... Learning to follow corporate, plant and department procedures always relating to work and safety ...

3M

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA)

Williamson, IA · On-site

$37.28/hr

Utility Operator (Knoxville, IA) Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where ... Learning to follow corporate, plant and department procedures always relating to work and safety ...

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All JobsUtility Plant Operator JobsUtility Plant Operator Jobs in Iowa

Utility Plant Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$24

$34

How much do utility plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility plant operator in Iowa is $24.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $28.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility plant operator?

Utility Plant Operators are professionals responsible for controlling and maintaining the equipment that generates and distributes utilities such as electricity, steam, gas, or water. They monitor gauges, meters, and control panels to ensure equipment runs efficiently and safely, making adjustments as needed. Their work is essential for the continuous operation of power plants, water treatment facilities, and other utility services, and they often respond to emergencies or malfunctions to minimize downtime.

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

To thrive as a Utility Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, process controls, and safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and standard operating procedures is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators respond to issues and coordinate with team members. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of utility plants.

What are some common challenges utility plant operators face, and how can they effectively manage them?

Utility Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability, responding to unexpected system alarms, and adapting to evolving safety regulations. Effective operators develop strong troubleshooting skills, stay current on safety protocols, and participate in regular training to keep up with technological advancements. Teamwork and clear communication with maintenance and engineering staff are also crucial for resolving issues promptly and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Utility Plant Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectUtility Plant OperatorPower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; may require state licensingHigh school diploma; often requires licensing or certification
Work EnvironmentUtilities, water treatment, or power generation facilitiesPower generation plants, including fossil fuel, nuclear, or renewable sources
Industry UsageUtilities, water, and energy sectorsElectric power industry, power plants

Utility Plant Operators and Power Plant Operators both work in energy-related facilities, often requiring similar certifications and working environments. While Utility Plant Operators focus on maintaining and operating utility systems like water or energy distribution, Power Plant Operators specifically control and monitor power generation equipment. Both roles are essential in the energy sector, but their specific responsibilities and work settings differ slightly.

How to get hired as a utility plant operator?

To get hired as a utility plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical training, and sometimes a state license or certification. Experience with industrial equipment, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in shifts are also important factors in the hiring process.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Utility Plant Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Plant Operator jobs in Iowa are:

Utility Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Plant Operator job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,979 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Whey Utility Operator

Hull, IA • On-site

Agropur Cooperative
See more jobs at Agropur Cooperativeexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Type:Regular

Working at Agropur means contributing to something bigger than yourself, in service of communities.

People are at the heart of everything we do. We believe in working together, speaking honestly, taking ownership, and creating value in everything we deliver. Our culture is built on collaboration, accountability, and a shared commitment to growing stronger together. Joining the team means being part of an environment where people support each other and take pride in making a real impact.

An environment aligned with a clear mission:

  • Starting wage of $25.92
  • Two pay increases within the first year up to $1.00
  • $1.50 Shift Differential + Double Time on Sundays and Holidays
  • Schedule 6:00PM to 6:00AM
  • 2-2-3 Rotational Schedule
  • Competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package focusing on your physical, financial, and emotional health to include the following perks as well as the standard benefit offerings:
    • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Short and Long-term Disability Insurance
  • 401(k) with up to a 7% company match
  • 3 Weeks PTO
  • Paid holidays and 2 floating holidays
    • Advancement Opportunities
    • Healthy work/life balance

How your role contributes to that mission:

We are looking for a Whey Utility Operator in Hull, Iowa. The Whey Utility Operator I develops and maintains a working knowledge of all whey plant positions to assist with personnel shortages thereby meeting manufacturing requirements in accordance with organization and customer needs.

  • Know how to operate every piece of equipment in use in the whey department.
  • Assist in covering operator absences/vacations.
  • Coach new employees on equipment operations, work and safety procedures.
    • Assist operators with any equipment questions or repairs.
    • Coach operators on new equipment and new techniques.
    • Assist in all special GMP, Safety, or equipment training.
    • Observe work and monitor gauges, dials, and other indicators to ensure the operators conform to production and processing standards.
    • Ensure completion of the Master Sanitation Schedule for all whey department areas within the facility.
  • Help cover major department projects, sock changes and dryer CIP's.
  • Understand and operate SAP, MES system, and RF gun.
  • Be able to train others in SAP, MES system, and RF gun.

The profile that shares this sense of contribution:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • No previous experience required; on-the-job training provided.
  • Minimum one (1) year of related experience preferred.
  • Forklift Certification required; on-the-job training/certification provided.

A role with purpose and lasting impact.

Agropur welcomes people from all backgrounds and origins. We are proud to be an employer with a diverse community and are committed to providing a respectful and inclusive experience for all employees and applicants. We will work with candidates who request accommodation. Please note that an adequate knowledge of French is required for positions in Quebec.Agropur uses artificial intelligence technology to assist our recruiters in screening, assessing, or selecting applicants for this position.

In this text, the use of the masculine gender to designate persons is intended only to lighten the text.

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