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Entry Level Fabrication Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Rfamec

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

... Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer This job involves responding to process and part quality issues ... Welding, fabrication, sheet metal, hydraulic, electrical or paint experience is a plus Visa ...

Three Point Solutions

Quality Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$37 - $39/hr

Experience in a union environment Role Scope * Entry-level quality engineering role * Supports fabrication and welding operations * Works with production, quality, and engineering teams * Focuses on ...

Access Dubuque

Packer (Entry Level)

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Packer (Entry Level) Amcor Containers & Closures North America 10 Positions ID: 85105 Posted On 12 ... Fabrication Share this Job Amcor Containers & Closures North America About the Company We are ...

PDM

Fabricator Development Trainee

Carlisle, IA · On-site

This is an entry-level, hands-on training role for individuals interested in a career in structural steel fabrication and welding. Fabricator Trainees will learn fundamental shop skills through a ...

PDM

Fabricator Development Trainee

Carlisle, IA · On-site

This is an entry-level, hands-on training role for individuals interested in a career in structural steel fabrication and welding. Fabricator Trainees will learn fundamental shop skills through a ...

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Entry Level Fabrication information

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How much do entry level fabrication jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level fabrication in Iowa is $20.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is entry level fabrication?

Entry level fabrication refers to beginner positions in the manufacturing or construction industries where employees help create products or structures by cutting, shaping, and assembling materials such as metal, plastic, or wood. Workers typically assist experienced fabricators, operate basic machinery, and learn essential skills on the job. These roles are ideal for individuals new to the field and often require only a high school diploma or GED, with on-the-job training provided by employers.

What does an entry level fabrication worker do?

In an Entry Level Fabrication position, you can expect to spend your day working hands-on with materials such as metal, plastic, or other components, often using tools like saws, welders, and grinders. Responsibilities include measuring and cutting materials, assembling basic parts, and assisting more experienced fabricators with complex projects. You'll likely work in a team environment, collaborating closely with supervisors and quality control staff to ensure finished products meet specifications. Safety procedures and attention to detail are key aspects of the job, and over time, you’ll have opportunities to learn new techniques and advance to more skilled tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level fabrication worker?

To thrive as an Entry Level Fabrication worker, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, measurement devices, and safety procedures is typically required, and OSHA certification can be beneficial. Strong teamwork, communication, and a willingness to learn enable individuals to adapt to various tasks and collaborate effectively. These skills ensure safe, precise, and efficient production processes in manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Fabrication vs Entry Level Welder?

AspectEntry Level FabricationEntry Level Welder
Required CertificationsBasic OSHA safety training, possibly a certification in general fabricationWelding certifications such as AWS or state-specific certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, workshops involving cutting, assembling, and assembling metal partsConstruction sites, manufacturing facilities, workshops focusing on welding metal components
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, construction, aerospace, automotive industriesConstruction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, automotive industries

Entry Level Fabrication and Entry Level Welder roles share similarities in work environment and industry but differ mainly in skill focus. Fabrication involves assembling and cutting materials, while welding emphasizes joining metals through welding techniques. Both roles often require safety training and basic certifications, but welders typically need specific welding certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right entry-level position in metalworking industries.

How to get started in entry level fabrication?

To start in entry level fabrication, gain basic skills in metalworking, welding, or cutting through vocational training, community college courses, or on-the-job experience. Familiarity with tools like grinders, saws, and welders is beneficial, and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.

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

The most popular types of Fabrication jobs in Iowa are:

Entry Level Fabrication jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Fabrication job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,913 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Dubuque, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise.  We are seeking a growth-oriented candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team.  The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.    

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization. 

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

This job involves responding to process and part quality issues to ensure robust and effective fabrication and assembly operations, and delivery of high-quality parts to the vehicle assembly line. Strong communication skills and ability to work and prioritize in a fast-paced environment are critical for success in this position.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct quality investigations, containment actions and recommended actions to prevent line down situations
  • Work with product line to identify, prioritize, and document reliability trends to resolve quality issues
  • Provide improvements to product reliability and customer satisfaction through support of new product introduction programs.
  • Provide quality representation to applicable meetings and reviews
  • Participate in quality planning
  • Create/monitor quality documentation and drive resolution to factory quality issues
  • Track quality metrics and provide feedback to design teams on gap analysis
  • Identify improvements or deterioration in product quality levels
  • Identify internal manufacturing process improvements
  • Complete process verification audits and document results and corrective actions
  • Work with assemblers on operator training certification
  • Lead/participate in SCRUM/AGILE projects to improve line quality
  • Drive product RGA's and develop recommendations for field action
  • Monitor/manage dashboard reports

Requirements

  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Engineering or related field required OR equivalent industry experience
  • 100% On-site support
  • Basic understanding of construction / off-road equipment
  • Basic Microsoft Office skills
  • Must be a self-starter, have good communication skills, and be able to work as part of a team
  • Must have a valid Drivers License

Desired Attributes

  • Ability to convey topics at both a technical and high level effectively  
  • Previous experience in a manufacturing or assembly environment
  • Welding, fabrication, sheet metal, hydraulic, electrical or paint experience is a plus  

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position

About RFA Engineering 

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S. 
 
Competitive Benefits 

  • Health and Dental Insurance 
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You 
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance 
  • Company Paid Life Insurance 
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability 
  • Short-term Disability 
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k) 
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care 
  • HSA for Medical Expenses 
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only) 
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) 
  • Paid Holidays 
  • Bereavement Leave 
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) 
  • Education Assistance 

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly