ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Shop Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Rayser Holdings

Monument Shop Assistant

Winterset, IA

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

The Monument Shop Assistant will be responsible for assisting with memorial monument shop functions ... Help with hand polish, sandblast, or machine polish of monuments * Dig trench for foundation using ...

IMKO

Shop Helper

Lawton, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

IMKO is currently hiring Material Handler who can assist with a variety of materials, components ... Maintains a safe work area and upkeeps machines * Use grinders and buffers to clean up a weld

IMKO

Shop Helper

Lawton, IA · On-site

$18/hr

IMKO is currently hiring Material Handler who can assist with a variety of materials, components ... Maintains a safe work area and upkeeps machines * Use grinders and buffers to clean up a weld

Mill Creek Machining

CNC Machinist

Paullina, IA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Our machine shop is 100% climate controlled* Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Monitor ... Able to change work holding fixtures and tooling as instructed by crew chief. * Assist with ...

Mill Creek Machining

CNC Machinist-Nights

Spencer, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Our machine shop is 100% climate controlled* Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Monitor ... Able to change work holding fixtures and tooling as instructed by crew chief. * Assist with ...

Mill Creek Machining

CNC Set-Up Machinist

Paullina, IA · On-site

Our machine shop is 100% climate controlled* Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Complete setup and operation of CNC machines * Assist in improving machining processes * Read and interpret ...

McWane, Inc.

Clow Valve -MCF Janitor

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$26.18/hr

The original location of "THE VALVE" is the current Machine Shop location on South Second St. the ... The janitor may also assist with minor maintenance tasks and inventory of cleaning supplies.

McWane, Inc.

Clow Valve -MCF Janitor

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$26.18/hr

The original location of "THE VALVE" is the current Machine Shop location on South Second St. the ... The janitor may also assist with minor maintenance tasks and inventory of cleaning supplies.

Clow Valve

Clow Valve -MCF Janitor

Oskaloosa, IA

The original location of "THE VALVE" is the current Machine Shop location on South Second St. the ... The janitor may also assist with minor maintenance tasks and inventory of cleaning supplies.

New

Aerotek

Forklift Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

... shop workflows. * Experience supporting machine operators, welders, fitters, and fabrication teams in a structural fabrication environment. * Ability to assist with inventory counts, material ...

Career Search

Shop Laborer

Dubuque, IA

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Duties/Responsibilities: * Assist with the dispatch of tools, equipment and materials to ... Repair small tools, machines and light equipment. * Prepare equipment for pickup and delivery.

Conlon Co.

Shop Laborer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Duties/Responsibilities: * Assist with the dispatch of tools, equipment and materials to ... Repair small tools, machines and light equipment. * Prepare equipment for pickup and delivery.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Shop JobsMachine Shop Assistant JobsMachine Shop Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Machine Shop Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$16

$21

How much do machine shop assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop assistant in Iowa is $16.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main duties of a machine shop assistant?

A Machine Shop Assistant supports machinists and technicians by preparing materials, operating basic machinery, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and organizing the workspace. They often assist with loading and unloading materials, measuring parts, and ensuring that tools and machines are in good working order. These assistants play a vital role in keeping the shop running smoothly and efficiently, often performing routine tasks so skilled machinists can focus on more complex work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine shop assistant?

To thrive as a Machine Shop Assistant, you need a basic understanding of machining processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, measuring instruments like calipers and micrometers, and sometimes CNC machinery or safety certifications is typical. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong teamwork skills help you excel in supporting machinists and maintaining workflow. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient operations and contribute to producing high-quality machined parts.

What are some common challenges faced by a machine shop assistant, and how can they be managed effectively?

Machine Shop Assistants often face challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols while working around heavy machinery, managing multiple tasks like material handling and equipment cleaning, and adapting to varying production schedules. Effective time management and consistent communication with machinists and supervisors can help address these challenges. Additionally, staying organized and proactive in identifying potential hazards contributes to a safer and more efficient workplace.

What is the difference between Machine Shop Assistant vs Machinist?

AspectMachine Shop AssistantMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingTechnical training or apprenticeship; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in machine setup, cleaning, and material handling in machine shopsOperates and programs machines like lathes and mills in manufacturing settings
Job ResponsibilitiesSupports machinists, prepares materials, maintains equipmentSets up, operates, and monitors machining equipment to produce parts

While both roles work in machine shops, the Machine Shop Assistant primarily supports machinists by handling preparatory and maintenance tasks, whereas the Machinist directly operates and programs machines to produce precise parts. The assistant role often requires less technical training, making it an entry point into the industry.

What qualifications do you need to work in a machine shop assistant?

A machine shop assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent and basic mechanical skills. Experience with hand tools, knowledge of safety procedures, and the ability to read technical drawings are also important qualifications for the role.

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

The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Machine Shop Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Machine Shop Assistant job openings:

Machine Shop Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,269 per year, or $17 per hour.

Monument Shop Assistant

Rayser Holdings

Winterset, IA

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Fast paced and team-focused!

Des Moines-Winterset Memorials is looking for a fulltime Monument Shop Assistant to join our team! The Monument Shop Assistant will be responsible for assisting with memorial monument shop functions such as cleaning and maintenance as well as delivering and installing monuments. The ideal candidate will be hardworking, enthusiastic and dependable. This position is located in our Winterset location. Must be able to work 40+ hour workweeks.

Job Responsibilities (not limited to):

  • Handle and transport granite using forklift and/or truck crane
  • Mix and pour concrete/mortar
  • Install stencil on granite monuments prior to blasting
  • Help with hand polish, sandblast, or machine polish of monuments
  • Dig trench for foundation using mini-excavator and/or hand tools
  • Aid in the installation of monuments in local cemeteries
  • General cleaning and maintenance of shop and company vehicles
  • Maintain regular attendance and punctuality according to assigned schedule
  • Other duties as needed or required

Job Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED) and minimum of one-year related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Ability to operate work-related machinery including excavator, truck-mounted crane, and hand tools
  • Able to work in various weather conditions 8 or more hours per day
  • Ability to lift up to 70 lbs.
  • Must possess valid driver's license (CDL a plus) and be insurable
  • Background check required
  • Must be reliable, professional and be able to follow instructions

Des Moines-Winterset Memorials is an Employee-Owned Company, offers competitive pay and comprehensive benefits and is an Equal Opportunity Employer! Learn more about us at www.dmwmemorials.com.

Apply