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Machinist Apprentice Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

IDEX

CNC Machinist

Cedar Falls, IA

$30.96 - $32.24/hr

Our Operations team in Cedar Falls, IA, is looking for experienced Machinists to work across the manufacturing processes to produce pumps with attention to safety, quality, cost, and delivery. Jobs ...

IDEX Corporation

CNC Machinist

Cedar Falls, IA

$30.96 - $32.24/hr

Our Operations team in Cedar Falls, IA, is looking for experienced Machinists to work across the manufacturing processes to produce pumps with attention to safety, quality, cost, and delivery. Jobs ...

IDEX Corporation

CNC Machinist

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$30.96 - $32.24/hr

Our Operations team in Cedar Falls, IA, is looking for experienced Machinists to work across the manufacturing processes to produce pumps with attention to safety, quality, cost, and delivery. Jobs ...

IDEX Corporation

CNC Machinist

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$30.96 - $32.24/hr

Our Operations team in Cedar Falls, IA, is looking for experienced Machinists to work across the manufacturing processes to produce pumps with attention to safety, quality, cost, and delivery. Jobs ...

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All JobsMachinist Apprentice JobsMachinist Apprentice Jobs in Waterloo, IA

Machinist Apprentice information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$13

$19

$29

How much do machinist apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for machinist apprentice in Waterloo, IA is $19.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machinist apprentice?

A Machinist Apprentice is an individual who is learning the trade of machining through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. They work under the supervision of experienced machinists to learn how to operate machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders. Apprentices gain skills in reading blueprints, measuring parts, and maintaining equipment. This apprenticeship typically leads to becoming a fully qualified machinist after completing the required hours and coursework.

What does a machinist apprentice do?

A machinist apprentice assists with the setup and operation of equipment alongside a working machinist. In this career, you are responsible for reading blueprints to understand customer specifications and using a variety of tools to help the machinist set-up, operate, or repair the machine. You learn about industry standards and regulations, materials used in production, safety policies, formula calculations, proper documentation, and appropriate communication with the manufacturer. Your training prepares you to operate heavy machinery and allows you to obtain hands-on experience to pursue a career as a machinist. This is a great entry-level position with few qualifications, and it often has union benefits.

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

To thrive as a Machinist Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of mechanical principles, strong math skills, and preferably a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, measurement instruments like calipers and micrometers, and sometimes introductory CNC machine operation is often required. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are important because they ensure safety, accuracy, and the ability to effectively follow instructions in a precision-driven manufacturing environment.

What are some typical challenges a machinist apprentice might face during their training period?

As a Machinist Apprentice, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to precise measurement standards, learning to operate a variety of complex machinery, and interpreting detailed technical blueprints. Adjusting to the physical demands of the shop environment and maintaining safety protocols can also be demanding for newcomers. However, these challenges are an important part of the learning process and are supported by mentorship from experienced machinists, allowing apprentices to gradually build confidence and competence in their skills.

What is the difference between Machinist Apprentice vs Machinist?

AspectMachinist ApprenticeMachinist
CredentialsTypically in training, may have high school diploma or equivalentRequires completed apprenticeship or technical training, often certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training, supervised, entry-levelSkilled work, operating machines independently
Industry UsageEntry point in manufacturing, machining industriesFull professional role in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive

The main difference is that a Machinist Apprentice is in training and gaining skills, while a Machinist is a fully qualified worker capable of independently operating machining equipment. Apprenticeship programs prepare individuals for the machinist role through hands-on experience and instruction.

Are machinist apprentices still in demand?

Machinist apprentices are still in demand as manufacturing and maintenance industries require skilled workers to operate and program machine tools. The role often involves learning CNC programming, precision measurement, and safety protocols, making it a valuable entry point into skilled trades with steady employment prospects.
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Machinist Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machinist Apprentice job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,366 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

CNC Machinist

Geater Machining & Manufacturing, Co.

Independence, IA

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Summary:
The basic function of the CNC Machinist is to set up and operate conventional, special purpose, and numerical control (NC) machines and machining centers to fabricate metallic and nonmetallic parts.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Analyzes work orders, work pieces, and blueprints to determine process, materials, equipment, and sequence of operations required to machine parts.
  • Selects, aligns, and secures holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials on machines such as mills, lathes, grinders and saws.
  • Calculates and sets controls to regulate machining factors such as speed, feed, coolant flow, depth and angle of cut or enters commands to retrieve, input, or edit computerized machine control media.
  • Observes machine operation to detect malfunctions, adjusts machine controls as required and verifies conformance of finished work piece to specifications and blueprints by use of appropriate measuring devices.
  • Sets up and operates machine on trial run to verify accuracy of machine settings or programmed control data.
  • Confers with engineers, production personnel, programmers, and others to resolve machining or assembly problems.
  • Performs any other related or unrelated task that may be assigned from time to time.

Qualifications
To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Must be able to read, write and speak English fluently.
  • Ability to resolve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
  • Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, or schedule form.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as blueprints, specifications, safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Calculate figures, amounts and also use applications of basic algebra and geometry.

Education and/or Experience:
Six months to one year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

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