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Machining Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Warehouse Associate

Council Bluffs, IA

$15 - $17.75/hr

Maintain good housekeeping and regularly clean work area, machines, and equipment. * Identify and ... those the associate encounters while performing the Essential Functions of the job. * The ...

A Machine Operator, preparing and operating the coating machine to coat the lenses properly. This ... BASIC QUALIFICATIONS To be a good fit for the Production Associate opportunity, you will have: * A ...

Associate Scientist On-site | Full-Time | U.S. Work Authorization Required Position Summary The ... The work environment can involve exposure to heat, cold, humidity, moving machinery, extreme noise ...

Warehouse Associate

Council Bluffs, IA

$15 - $17.75/hr

Maintain good housekeeping and regularly clean work area, machines, and equipment. * Identify and ... those the associate encounters while performing the Essential Functions of the job. * The ...

Warehouse Associate

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Maintain good housekeeping and regularly clean work area, machines, and equipment. * Identify and ... those the associate encounters while performing the Essential Functions of the job. * The ...

Warehouse Associate

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Maintain good housekeeping and regularly clean work area, machines, and equipment. * Identify and ... those the associate encounters while performing the Essential Functions of the job. * The ...

Stock & Housekeeping Associate As a Stock & Housekeeping Associate, you are the heart of store ... Vacuum carpet, remove carpet spots, dry mop and wet mop floors, use scrubbing machine, collect ...

Shipping Associate

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$24.53/hr

Troubleshoot issues with packing equipment, label machines, tapers, palletizers, etc.What we need ... by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of each job. Reasonable ...

Machinist

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish ... EDUCATION High School diploma or Associates degree from an accredited community college or ...

... Associate . This role blends hands-on sewing line operations with efficient packaging ... Operate automatic sewing machines to assemble transportation tie-down straps. * Maintain ...

... Associate . This role blends hands-on sewing line operations with efficient packaging ... Operate automatic sewing machines to assemble transportation tie-down straps. * Maintain ...

New

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

We are looking for a Machine Packaging Operator who will join our Liquids Manufacturing team in Ft ... Adhere to plant safety rules and programs as it pertains to self and all other associates ...

Associate Manager, Operations / Mailroom Gannett Publishing Services/USA TODAY CO Des Moines, IA ... Ensure all machine safety-guards are installed, functioning properly, and in use. * Immediately ...

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

We are looking for a Machine Packaging Operator who will join Scotts Miracle-Gro team in Ft ... Adhere to plant safety rules and programs as it pertains to self and all other associates ...

Associate Manager, Operations / Mailroom Gannett Publishing Services/USA TODAY CO Des Moines, IA ... Ensure all machine safety-guards are installed, functioning properly, and in use. * Immediately ...

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Showing results 1-20

Machining Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$18

$24

How much do machining associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for machining associate in Iowa is $18.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are machinists still in demand?

Machining associates and machinists are in steady demand due to ongoing manufacturing needs and the use of CNC machines. The industry values skilled workers with knowledge of precision tools, programming, and safety standards, and employment opportunities are expected to grow as manufacturing technology advances.

What is the difference between Machining Associate vs Machining Technician?

AspectMachining AssociateMachining Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or machine shop setting, operating basic machineryMore advanced machinery, troubleshooting, and maintenance tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesSet up and operate machines, perform quality checksMaintain, troubleshoot, and repair machining equipment

Machining Associates typically focus on operating machines and performing basic tasks, while Machining Technicians handle maintenance and troubleshooting. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, but Technicians usually require more technical training and handle more complex responsibilities.

What are some common challenges Machining Associates face during daily operations?

Machining Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision and quality while working at a fast pace, troubleshooting minor equipment issues, and adapting to changes in production schedules. They must also ensure strict adherence to safety protocols and manage repetitive tasks without losing focus. Collaboration with quality control and maintenance teams is essential to prevent downtime and meet production goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machining Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machining Associate, you need a solid understanding of machining processes, blueprint reading, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC machines, calipers, micrometers, and manufacturing safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are crucial soft skills that help ensure quality and efficiency on the shop floor. These skills and qualities are vital for producing accurate parts, maintaining safety, and contributing to smooth manufacturing operations.

What is the highest paying machining job?

The highest paying machining jobs typically include CNC programmer, CNC supervisor, or precision machining manager roles, which require advanced skills, certifications, and experience. These positions often offer higher salaries due to increased responsibility and technical expertise in operating complex machinery and overseeing production processes.

Can you make 6 figures as a machinist?

Machining associates typically do not earn six-figure salaries; most machinists earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually. Achieving a six-figure income usually requires advanced skills, experience, specialization, or supervisory roles in manufacturing or aerospace industries.

What are Machining Associates?

Machining Associates are skilled workers who operate, maintain, and monitor machines used in manufacturing processes, such as lathes, mills, or grinders. Their responsibilities include setting up equipment, ensuring quality standards are met, and performing routine maintenance on machinery. Machining Associates often work in industrial settings, producing parts and components for various products. They must be detail-oriented, follow safety protocols, and have a good understanding of blueprints and technical drawings.

Can a CNC machinist make 100k a year?

CNC machinists can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, certifications, experience, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Achieving this salary often requires proficiency with complex machinery, programming, and sometimes overtime or supervisory roles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machining jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Machining jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Machining Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Machining Associate job openings:
Associate Technician*^*

Associate Technician*^*

EssilorLuxottica Group

Sioux City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


EssilorLuxottica rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 293 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 39 rated optical retailers


Job description

Requisition ID: 931218 
Store #: 
E02512 Lab Ops - Surfacing Sioux 
Position: Full-Time 
Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information

If you’ve worn a pair of glasses, we’ve already met.

We are a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of ophthalmic lenses, frames, and sunglasses. We offer our industry stakeholders in over 150 countries access to a global platform of high-quality vision care products such as the Essilor brand, with Varilux, Crizal, Eyezen, Stellest and Transitions, iconic brands that consumers love such as Ray-Ban, Oakley, Persol and Oliver Peoples, as well as a network that offers consumers high-quality vision care and best-in-class shopping experiences such as Sunglass Hut, LensCrafters, and Target Optical, and leading e-commerce platforms.

Our unique business model and relentless pursuit of operational excellence ensures that consumers everywhere have access to products. Balancing speed, efficiency and proximity, the Company manages a global supply chain with cutting-edge technology, based on centralization for frames and on a capillary network for lens finishing and prescription laboratories. In our dynamic environment, fueled by technology and innovation, our people have the space to pioneer new solutions.

Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry. Discover more by following us on LinkedIn!

GENERAL FUNCTION

Technical aptitude, attention to detail and the motivation to learn and grow professionally. If this describes you, consider aligning your career with Essilor.

 

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

You will focus on one of the following areas, and we plan to cross-train in the future so that you may work in any area. 
In the coating area, you may work as:

  • A Clipper, clipping and securing lenses into baskets to begin the coating process.
  • A Machine Operator, preparing and operating the coating machine to coat the lenses properly. This will include:
    • Loading machine chemicals.
    • Loading and unloading sectors with lenses.
  • An Inspector, inspecting lenses to ensure that they are optically and cosmetically accurate.

In finishing, you may work as:

  • A Beveler, utilizing the bevel wheel to remove the sharp edges of the lens.
  • A Mounter, inserting edged lenses to ensure proper fit and alignment, and inserting lenses into the frame while ensuring proper fit.
  • An Edger Operator, using variety of edging machines to cut lenses down to proper size and shape to fit the appropriate frame.
  • A Finish Layout preparer, readying uncut lenses for the edging process by outlining the center/alignment markings and affixing the chuck/block.
  • A Tinter, accurately tinting all lenses.
  • An inspector, checking lenses and frames to ensure quality standards are met.

In surfacing, you may work as:

  • A Surfacing Blocker, utilizing the blocking machine to accurately secure a block to all lenses going through the surfacing department. You'll operate taping equipment to apply protective tape to the front of the lenses.
  • A Surface Finer/Polisher, operating the equipment used to fine and polish all lenses going through the surfacing depart.
  • A Lens Washer, hand washing and drying lenses followed by a brief cosmetic inspection of the lenses. You'll grasp lenses with a de-blocking cup and strike it against the table to remove block from lenses, and also remove tape from lenses.

 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

 

To be a good fit for the Production Associate opportunity, you will have:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent. 
  • High mechanical aptitude.
  • 1+ years of related work experience, such as in manufacturing; experience in lab settings is preferred but not required. 
  • The ability to meet measurable standards in a dynamic production environment. Depth perception and manual dexterity.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational abilities.
  • Attention to detail.

You need to know:

  • This position requires that you stand and walk for the duration of any shift.
  • You'll work with and around chemicals.
  • Your work area may be wet and/or dirty and or have a strong smell.
  • You should be willing and able to work overtime as needed.

This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business. Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts.

EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. If you would like to provide feedback regarding an active job posting, or if you are an individual with a disability who would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the EssilorLuxottica SpeakUp Hotline at 844-303-0229 (be sure to provide your name, job id number, and contact information so that we may follow up in a timely manner) or email HRCompliance@luxotticaretail.com.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, sexual aggression or stalking, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.


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