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Warehouse Unloader Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Overview Responsible for unloading freight from the various trucking companies with or without ... Warehouse experience a plus. Experience operating a forklift / Electric Pallet Jack preferred.

Warehouse Associate

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$500 - $900/wk

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associate

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$500 - $900/wk

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associate

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$500 - $900/wk

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associate

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$500 - $900/wk

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associate

Maquoketa, IA · On-site

$600 - $1.0K/wk

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associate

Grinnell, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $18.50/hr

The WAREHOUSE EMPLOYEE works under the direction of the Warehouse Manager, Assistant Manager, or ... Responsible for unloading semi-trailers and/or assisting the loader for semi-trailers and route ...

Warehouse Associate

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associate

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associate

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associate

Grinnell, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

The WAREHOUSE EMPLOYEE works under the direction of the Warehouse Manager, Assistant Manager, or ... Responsible for unloading semi-trailers and/or assisting the loader for semi-trailers and route ...

Warehouse Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$700 - $1.2K/wk

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associate

Coralville, IA · On-site

$700 - $1.2K/wk

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Warehouse Associate - (FT)

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

As the Warehouse Associate, we need someone who will own a variety of material handling duties such as receiving, loading/unloading material, pulling/assembling customers' orders, and performing ...

Warehouse Associates perform a variety of warehouse responsibilities including but not limited to loading, unloading, selecting, freight hauling, auditing, repacking, sorting, palletizing, clean up ...

Showing results 21-40

Warehouse Unloader information

See Iowa salary details

$433

$781

$1.1K

How much do warehouse unloader jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average weekly pay for warehouse unloader in Iowa is $781.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $650.00 and $903.85 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a warehouse unloader do?

A Warehouse Unloader is responsible for unloading goods and materials from trucks, shipping containers, or other vehicles upon arrival at a warehouse. They ensure that items are carefully removed, checked for damage, and sorted according to organizational procedures. Unloaders may also be responsible for documenting received shipments and moving items to designated storage areas. This role often requires physical strength, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols.

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

To thrive as a Warehouse Unloader, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pallet jacks, forklifts, warehouse management systems, and safety procedures is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure efficient, accurate unloading and safe handling of goods, which are critical for smooth warehouse operations.

What are some common challenges faced by warehouse unloaders, and how can they be managed effectively?

Warehouse unloaders often face challenges such as handling heavy or awkward loads, working under time constraints, and maintaining accuracy while unloading shipments. To manage these effectively, it's important to use proper lifting techniques, stay organized by keeping track of inventory, and communicate closely with team members to ensure safety and efficiency. Many warehouses also provide equipment like pallet jacks or conveyor belts to assist with heavier items, and ongoing safety training helps unloaders stay updated on best practices.

What is the difference between Warehouse Unloader vs Warehouse Packer?

AspectWarehouse UnloaderWarehouse Packer
Primary RoleUnloads incoming shipments from trucks and prepares goods for storagePackages and prepares products for shipment to customers
Work EnvironmentLoading docks, warehouse floorsPacking stations, warehouse storage areas
CredentialsBasic forklift or equipment operation may be requiredMinimal certifications, focus on packaging skills
Common UsageUsed in receiving and inventory managementUsed in order fulfillment and shipping

The main difference between a Warehouse Unloader and a Warehouse Packer is their primary responsibilities. Unloaders focus on receiving goods from trucks, while Packers prepare items for shipment. Both roles are essential in warehouse operations and often work closely together to ensure smooth logistics flow.

Why do people quit warehouse unloaders?

People often quit warehouse unloader jobs due to physically demanding work, repetitive tasks, long or irregular hours, and limited advancement opportunities. The job's physically intensive nature and fast-paced environment can lead to fatigue and burnout, prompting some workers to leave. Additionally, low pay and lack of benefits may contribute to turnover in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Warehouse Unloader jobs in Iowa?

For Warehouse Unloader jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Warehouse Unloader jobs in IA?

For Warehouse Unloader jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Warehouse Unloader job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,642 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Warehouse Associate

MERIT LOGISTICS LLC

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Merit Logistics rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
Responsible for unloading freight from the various trucking companies with or without manual or powered equipment at assigned location at the direction of the Supervisor and Site Manager.
Responsibilities
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
(Other job duties may be assigned)
Associate handles the unloading and breaking down of freight at an adequate pace
Associate might be trained to operate forklift/electric pallet jack
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully
perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with
disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach
with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; and stoop, kneel, crouch or
crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit and climb or balance. The employee must regularly lift and move
up to 50 pounds, frequently lift and move fifty to seventy-five pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job
include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
Warehouse experience a plus.
Experience operating a forklift / Electric Pallet Jack preferred.
  • Ability to move up 50-75 pounds continuously
  • The ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.
  • Warehouse Experience a plus.
  • Experience operating a forklift / Electric Pallet Jack Preferred.
  • The ability to work in a physically demanding warehouse environment continuously lifting and moving up to 75lbs
  • The ability to meet fast-paced productivity goals and standards
  • The ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays
  • The ability to work overtime, including weekends and holidays, without advanced notice
  • Reliable transportation to and from work

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND CHARACTERISTICS REQUIRED
Accuracy Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.
Detail Oriented Ability to pay attention to the minute details of a project or task.
Communication - Ability to read, write and understand English.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Any combination of education and experience that demonstrates the knowledge and ability to perform the work.
Willingness and ability to perform manual work following verbal and written instructions.
Prior experience operating a forklift and pallet jack a plus, but not required. Will train and certify associates holding
positions requiring the use of such equipment.
Warehouse experience a plus.
Experience operating a forklift / Electric Pallet Jack preferred.
  • Ability to move up 50-75 pounds continuously
  • The ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.
  • Warehouse Experience a plus.
  • Experience operating a forklift / Electric Pallet Jack Preferred.
  • The ability to work in a physically demanding warehouse environment - continuously lifting and moving up to 75lbs
  • The ability to meet fast-paced productivity goals and standards
  • The ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays
  • The ability to work overtime, including weekends and holidays, without advanced notice
  • Reliable transportation to and from work

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND CHARACTERISTICS REQUIRED
Accuracy - Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly.
Detail Oriented - Ability to pay attention to the minute details of a project or task.
Communication - Ability to read, write and understand English.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
Any combination of education and experience that demonstrates the knowledge and ability to perform the work.
Willingness and ability to perform manual work following verbal and written instructions.
Prior experience operating a forklift and pallet jack a plus, but not required. Will train and certify associates holding
positions requiring the use of such equipment.

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