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Machine Shop Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Shop Machine Operator

Clive, IA · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Company Overview CB&I delivers integrated storage and asset-management solutions that help ... Operate overhead cranes, forklifts, and other machinery to load and unload burning machines. Read ...

Shop Coordinator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Manage job costs * Act as primary backup for Order Coordinator as needed * Maintain applicable ... Some understanding of machining and welding techniques * Ability to work within stressful ...

Store Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Shops close at 7:00 PM , so your evenings are free * Average 45-hour work week Training & Support ... Annual Shop Manager conferences and team events * Internal competitions and recognition programs

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Machine Shop Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$34.3K

$71.7K

$112.2K

How much do machine shop manager jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine shop manager in Iowa is $71,711.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $84,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Shop Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Shop Manager, you need strong expertise in machining processes, production management, and a background in mechanical engineering or manufacturing, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with CNC machines, CAD/CAM software, ERP systems, and safety regulations is typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills are crucial for managing teams and driving continuous improvement. These competencies ensure efficient operations, high-quality output, and a safe, productive work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a Machine Shop Manager, and how can they be addressed?

Machine Shop Managers often encounter challenges such as maintaining production schedules, ensuring equipment reliability, and managing a diverse team of machinists and technicians. Balancing quality control with productivity demands can be particularly demanding, especially when dealing with tight deadlines or unexpected equipment failures. Effective communication, proactive maintenance planning, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement are key strategies for overcoming these challenges. Additionally, staying updated on the latest manufacturing technologies can help streamline operations and boost team efficiency.

What does a Machine Shop Manager do?

A Machine Shop Manager oversees the daily operations of a machine shop, ensuring that production schedules are met, equipment is maintained, and safety standards are followed. They are responsible for managing staff, coordinating workflow, and optimizing manufacturing processes. Additionally, they handle budgeting, inventory control, and quality assurance to maintain efficient and cost-effective operations. The role often involves liaising with other departments to meet production goals and address any technical challenges.

What is the difference between Machine Shop Manager vs Machinist?

AspectMachine Shop ManagerMachinist
Primary RoleOversees shop operations, manages staff, and ensures production efficiencyOperates machine tools to produce precision parts
CredentialsOften requires management experience, technical skills, and certificationsTypically needs technical training or certifications in machining
Work EnvironmentOffice and shop floor management, supervisory tasksHands-on machine operation in manufacturing settings
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, metalworking, and industrial facilitiesCommonly found in machine shops, manufacturing plants

The main difference is that a Machine Shop Manager oversees the entire operation, including staff and workflow, while a Machinist focuses on operating machines to produce parts. Both roles require technical knowledge, but the manager's role is more supervisory and administrative.

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 are popular job titles related to Machine Shop Manager jobs in Iowa? For Machine Shop Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Machine Shop Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Machine Shop Manager job openings:
Clow Valve - General Foreman

Clow Valve - General Foreman

McWane, Inc.

Oskaloosa, IA

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Today, Clow Valve Company operates in Oskaloosa, Iowa, The Oskaloosa plants include iron and brass foundries, a machine shop, assembly, finished goods warehousing, shipping and administrative offices. We are proud to continue our history of offering manufactured products that comply with "Made in the USA" requirements.

Job Description

Purpose:

The brass general foreman leads the brass foundry to act as one cohesive unit through leveraging multiple dynamics including improving process efficiency, raising employee engagement, forecasting and adjusting for supply and business demands.

Key Performance Indicators:

  1. Leadership
    1. 4.5+/5 leadership score
  2. Sustainability
    1. Maintain >95% on-time delivery
    2. Less than 22.7 brass man hours/ton
    3. Scrap rate less than 2.75%

Core Function:

Employee Engagement (40%) - Leads the brass team to success through direct influence. The role routinely conducts staff meetings, updates team and celebrates wins. Through relationship building, 1:1 meeting with direct reports and leads, mentor, coach and develop team capacity. Through close interaction, monitor processes, problems on the floor and production issues. Provide solutions and teach others how to solve problems themselves. Act as a support and catalyst for brass team members to develop insight and capacity for decision making and problem solving. Ensures all safety, HR and environmental training are complete and standards are followed.

Continuous Improvement (35%) - Look for and proactively initiate ways to improve brass production at Clow Valve. Coordinate with scheduling to proactively deliver objectives and expectations to production supervisors. Continuously evaluate machinery effectiveness, research and pursue cost reduction opportunities. Design, select and project manage all R&D for development. Suggest changes in workplace and process improvements, and implement changes which have no capital requirements. Prepare business case for process improvements with capital requirements. Manage and work with vendors for all repairs and installations. Maintain an open line of communication with customers with updates about production and quality. Participate in industry networking when possible to ensure access to and knowledge of best solutions.

Data Analysis (25%) - Drive changes and improvements for AX in the brass foundry. Access all production orders, planned orders, and inventories to create production schedule based on all availability and demands to keep brass foundry at optimum production. Maintain uptime machine performance and compliance regulations.

Qualifications

Technical Skills:

Microsoft Suite set required.

AX experience a plus but not required.

Education & Experience:

Required:

High School Diploma or G.E.D, two years established leadership & five years of foundry experience.

Preferred:

Associate or bachelor's degree in industrial technology or related field and familiarity with Clow Valve product.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
McWane is a Federal VEVRAA contractor, and an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices. McWane will not discriminate against any applicant for employment because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran or service member status, marital status, citizenship status (In IL - sex, including same sex, ancestry, order of protection status, physical or mental disability, military status, pregnancy, unfavorable discharge status, genetic information), (In IA - gender identity), (In CA- gender identity or expression, and genetic information) or any other category protected by federal, state or local law.