2

Entry Level Manufacturing Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

... manufactures to increase product sales by employing more than 30,000 associates throughout the ... Company-provided training (Ideal for entry-level or those looking to obtain new skills.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Manufacturing information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$14

$30

$50

How much do entry level manufacturing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level manufacturing in Waterloo, IA is $30.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.02 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level Manufacturing job?

An Entry Level Manufacturing job involves performing basic tasks in a production or assembly environment, often under the guidance of experienced workers. Responsibilities may include operating machinery, assembling products, inspecting materials, and maintaining a clean work area. No prior experience is usually required, as on-the-job training is provided. These positions are ideal for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in manufacturing and develop technical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Manufacturing position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Manufacturing worker, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong attention to detail, and basic mechanical aptitude. Familiarity with operating machinery, using hand tools, and following safety protocols—sometimes demonstrated through OSHA certifications—is important. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication help set candidates apart in fast-paced manufacturing environments. These abilities are crucial for maintaining production quality, efficiency, and safety on the job.

What does a typical day look like for someone in an entry level manufacturing position?

A typical day for an entry level manufacturing employee involves operating and monitoring machines, assembling products or components, conducting quality checks, and ensuring a clean and safe work area. You’ll often work as part of a team, communicating with supervisors and co-workers to maintain production goals. Depending on the facility, shifts may vary, and you may rotate between different tasks to keep up with workflow demands. This variety keeps the workday active and helps employees develop a broad set of skills relevant to advancing in the manufacturing industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing jobs in Waterloo, IA? The most popular types of Manufacturing jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Manufacturing jobs in Waterloo, IA? For Entry Level Manufacturing jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Manufacturing jobs in Waterloo, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Manufacturing jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Entry Level Manufacturing jobs? Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Entry Level Manufacturing job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Manufacturing job openings in Waterloo, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,221 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

RFA Engineering

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 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 an entry-level to experienced 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
As a Manufacturing Engineer you will apply Lean Manufacturing methodologies to help improve efficiency, reduce costs and improve quality throughout the manufacturing process. The selected individual will work on a cross-functional team supporting the manufacturing and assembly operations for off-highway equipment.
Job Description
  • Establish routings, methods, processes, and layouts for assembly line.
  • Provide costs, methods documentation, quality plans and labor standards for current/new products.
  • Provide support and troubleshooting for current production.
  • Investigate, gather and analyze data and implement solutions.
  • Continuous improvements in cost, quality, safety and ergonomics
  • Develop and implement plans to support lean manufacturing.
  • Improve material flow and material presentation.
  • Prepare charts, graphs, and diagrams to illustrate workflow, routing, floor layouts, material handling, and machine utilization.
  • Lead time studies for capacity, energy, productivity and efficiency

Requirements
  • Bachelor's of Science in Engineering or Industrial Technology.
  • Demonstrates a strong mechanical aptitude through work experience or hobbies.
  • Problem solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Familiar with Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing tools and methodologies.
  • Must be a self-starter, good communication skills, able to thrive in a collaborative environment.
  • Must have a valid Driver's License.

Desired Experience
  • Experience in a production environment working with cross functional teams.
  • Experience with manufacturing, fabrication, or assembly operations.
  • Knowledge of Root Cause Analysis.
  • Database Management

Salary Range: $65,000-$75,000 Commensurate with experience
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
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.