1

Machine Shop Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Shop Helper

Lawton, IA

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

There will be a lot of shop work, there will be some forklift work and material handling ... Maintains a safe work area and upkeeps machines * Use grinders and buffers to clean up a weld

Shop Helper

Lawton, IA · On-site

$18/hr

There will be a lot of shop work, there will be some forklift work and material handling ... Maintains a safe work area and upkeeps machines * Use grinders and buffers to clean up a weld

CNC Machinist

Paullina, IA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Our machine shop is 100% climate controlled* Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Monitor machine performance and identify out-of-tolerance conditions and verify cycle times on all jobs * Utilize ...

CNC Machinist-Nights

Spencer, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Our machine shop is 100% climate controlled* Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Monitor machine performance and identify out-of-tolerance conditions and verify cycle times on all jobs * Utilize ...

Operator 1 - 3rd shift

Davenport, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Basic Operation and adjustment of machines. Education: Requires use of basic drawings, general shop math, handbook formulas, and some measuring instruments such as caliper, micrometers, and scale.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Machine Shop information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do machine shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop in Iowa is $17.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine shop?

A machine shop job involves operating, maintaining, and programming machines such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders to manufacture metal or plastic parts. Workers in a machine shop may have roles like machinist, CNC operator, or tool and die maker. They follow blueprints and technical drawings to create precise components for industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. Strong attention to detail, mechanical skills, and knowledge of machining processes are essential for success in this role.

What does a typical day look like working in a machine shop?

A typical day in a machine shop involves setting up and operating various machines to manufacture or modify metal parts according to precise specifications. You'll often read blueprints or instructions, measure dimensions with specialized tools, and perform quality control checks on finished products. Collaboration with engineers, supervisors, and fellow machinists is common to troubleshoot issues and maintain smooth production. Safety is a top priority, and you may be responsible for maintaining equipment and keeping your workspace organized. The work is often hands-on and requires a focus on accuracy and efficiency throughout the shift.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the machine shop position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Machine Shop, you need strong mechanical aptitude, proficiency in operating machining equipment (such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders), and a solid understanding of safety protocols; a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, with additional technical certifications being highly beneficial. Familiarity with CNC programming, blueprint reading, precision measurement tools, and shop management software is often sought after. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills are essential to ensure high-quality production, prevent safety incidents, and maintain efficient workflow in a demanding manufacturing environment.

Do machine shop machinists make a lot of money?

Machine shop machinists typically earn wages that vary by experience, location, and industry, with median salaries often ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 annually. Skilled machinists who operate CNC machines or hold certifications can earn higher wages, especially in specialized or high-demand environments.

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 jobs in Iowa?

For Machine Shop jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Machine Shop job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,556 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Clow Valve - Machine Operator Specialist Utility

McWane, Inc.

Oskaloosa, IA • On-site

$500/day

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Company Description

We are a leading manufacturer of water valves and fire hydrants. We are a division of McWane Corportation with sister companies in the US and Canada.The Iowa Valve Company was established in Oskaloosa in 1909 by W W Corey and Herman W Read to build hydrants and valves. The original location of "THE VALVE" is the current Machine Shop location on South Second St. the original buildings are still part of that facility. The Eddy Valve Company was founded in 1849 by George Eddy in Waterford New York. In 1878 Clow was formed in Chicago as a jobber of wrought iron pipe and other foundry products. The company was then known as James B Clow and Sons. Clow acquired Eddy Valve in 1945 and Iowa Valve in 1947. These were operated separately at their original locations until 1970 when they were merged in Oskaloosa under Clow Corporation, Valve Division.  
The original South Second street facility housed all the operations of "THE VALVE". This included a brass foundry, an iron foundry and the machine shop for machining and building of valves and hydrants. In 1967, demand had grown and the iron foundry was relocated and expanded to the southeast edge of Oskaloosa. When Eddy and Iowa were merged in Oskaloosa in 1970, the brass foundry was relocated to the iron foundry site on 17th Ave. East.
In June 1985, McWane Incorporated purchased all the stock of Clow and Clow became a wholly owned subsidiary of McWane. Clow Valve Company, including Oskaloosa and Corona, was formed and is how we are known today.
Today Clow Valve Company is a very well respected manufacturer of water works valves and fire hydrants. Clow manufactures 2" through 48" diameter Resilient Seated valves. Clow also manufactures dry and wet barrel fire hydrants. The Machine Shop and Metal Casting Facility utilize state of the art technology in both shops concerning safety, quality and production. The Clow Machine Shop has been ISO 9000 certified since 2002. The Foundry is recognized as a Voluntary Protection Program Merit Site as awarded by OSHA. Clow Valve is looking forward to operating in and benefiting Oskaloosa for the next 100 years.

Job Description

Clow Valve has an opening for a Machine Operator Specialist. Previous machining experience is needed. 

W/E Shift Position: Friday, Saturday, Sunday 5am-5pm

Starting Wage: $28.78

$500 Sign on bonus after 120 day probationary period completed

Health Insurance available after 60 days.

RESPONSIBILITIES INLCUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

  • Planning machines by studying work orders, blueprints, engineering plans, materials, specifications, and machining parameters.
  • Completes tooling setup for machine.
  • Complete any required fixture set-up.
  • Programs mills and lathes by entering instructions.
  • Load stock into machine (may require use of overhead lifting devices).
  • Verifies settings by measuring positions, first-run part, and sample work pieces; adhering to standards.
  • Maintains specifications by observing drilling, grooving, and cutting; taking measurements; detecting malfunctions; troubleshooting processes; adjusting and reprogramming controls; sharpening and replacing worn tools; adhering to quality assurance procedures and processes.
  • Maintains continuity among work shifts by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities, and continuing needs.
  • Documents actions by completing production and quality logs.
  • General cleanup of work area.
  • Maintains safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations.
Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

  • Lifting/carrying of less than 50 pounds.
  • Standing greater than 6 hours per day.
  • Ability to work in extreme temperature conditions.
  • Ability to work around machinery.
  • Ability to gauge and measure parts using mathematics.
  • Ability to use hand tools & do repetitive work.
  • Manufacturing Experience is preferred.
  • Ability to wear PPE including but not limited to earplugs, safety glasses, & metatarsal guarded boots.
  • Ability to understand and operate forklift in a safe manner
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.