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Manufacturing Associate Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Tuson Manufacturing Company

Be Seen First

Front Office Accounting Administrative Assistant

Story City, IA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Tuson Manufacturing Company Job Type: Full-Time or Part-Time (Flexible) Benefits: Not included for ... High school diploma or GED with relevant experience required , OR Associate degree or higher (new ...

Tuson Manufacturing Company

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Process Engineer

Story City, IA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Associate Degree in relevant fields and 3+ years of manufacturing/engineering experience acceptable. * Experience with process design, process optimization, and manufacturing operations. * CNC ...

Patterson Logistics

Warehouse Associate I

Boone, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Job Summary The Warehouse Associate strives to exceed customer expectations by ensuring orders are ... Verifies that the item picked matches the item on the invoice by comparing manufacturer name ...

Power Brace Manufacturing

Machine Operator

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$15/hr

Master Dowel Manufacturing is an energetic, family-style business. We want you to be part of it! Come grow with us! We are seeking candidates who are dependable, hard-working, and positive.

Patterson Companies

Warehouse Associate I

Boone, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Job Summary The Warehouse Associate strives to exceed customer expectations by ensuring orders are ... Verifies that the item picked matches the item on the invoice by comparing manufacturer name ...

Pattersoncompanies

Warehouse Associate I

Boone, IA

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Job Summary The Warehouse Associate strives to exceed customer expectations by ensuring orders are ... Verifies that the item picked matches the item on the invoice by comparing manufacturer name ...

Patterson Companies

Warehouse Associate I

Boone, IA · On-site

Job Summary The Warehouse Associate strives to exceed customer expectations by ensuring orders are ... Verifies that the item picked matches the item on the invoice by comparing manufacturer name ...

KBS

Warehouse Janitorial Associate

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$16.50/hr

Warehouse Janitorial Associate Kellermeyer Bergensons Services (KBS) has immediate full-time, ... manufacturing, and more -maintain clean, efficient, and welcoming spaces that support their ...

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All JobsManufacturing Associate JobsManufacturing Associate Jobs in Ames, IA

Manufacturing Associate information

See Ames, IA salary details

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How much do manufacturing associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing associate in Ames, IA is $20.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Manufacturing Associates?

Manufacturing Associates are workers who assist in the production of goods within a manufacturing facility. They are typically responsible for operating machinery, assembling products, performing quality checks, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment. Manufacturing Associates play a key role in ensuring that production goals are met efficiently and that products meet quality standards. This position often requires attention to detail, the ability to follow instructions, and sometimes physical stamina for repetitive tasks.

What is a manufacturing associate?

A manufacturing associate is a worker involved in the production process within a factory or plant. They typically operate machinery, assemble products, and follow safety protocols to ensure efficient manufacturing operations. This role often requires attention to detail and may involve working with tools or quality control procedures.

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

To thrive as a Manufacturing Associate, you need a solid understanding of production processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, quality control systems, and safety protocols is typically required, and some roles may prefer certifications like OSHA training. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced, collaborative environments. These abilities ensure efficient production, uphold safety standards, and contribute to consistent product quality.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

Manufacturing Associate roles may decline by 2030 due to automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies reducing the need for manual labor. Jobs involving repetitive tasks are increasingly replaced by machines, emphasizing the importance of skills in technology operation and maintenance. However, some roles will evolve rather than disappear, requiring adaptability and new technical competencies.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

In manufacturing, high-paying roles such as experienced supervisors, specialized technicians, or quality control managers can earn around $700 a day, especially with overtime or in high-demand industries. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, or extensive experience and may involve working in a fast-paced environment or requiring shift work.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Manufacturing associates typically do not earn $4,000 weekly without specialized skills or advanced experience. High-paying roles that can reach this level often include sales, real estate, or skilled trades like electricians or plumbers, which may require certifications but not necessarily a college degree. Some independent contractors or entrepreneurs in manufacturing-related fields can also achieve this income with the right business model and experience.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Associate vs Production Technician?

AspectManufacturing AssociateProduction Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, manufacturing plantsFactories, production areas, equipment operation
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing companies, assembly plantsManufacturing, industrial facilities, production units
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Manufacturing Associates and Production Technicians both work in manufacturing environments, often performing similar tasks such as assembling products, operating machinery, and ensuring quality. The main differences lie in certifications and technical skills; Production Technicians typically require more technical training or certifications and may handle more complex equipment. Both roles are essential in the manufacturing industry and often overlap in daily responsibilities.

What Is a Manufacturing Associate?

A manufacturing associate assists in the operations of a manufacturing facility and the products that it produces. As a manufacturing associate, your job duties include organizing supplies and raw materials inventory, preparing equipment, and training staff with preparation and production. You may also investigate the manufacturing process to fix any issues and ensure it meets strict regulations. The qualifications for a career as a manufacturing associate typically include a bachelor’s degree and prior manufacturing experience in a similar industry. You also need computer proficiency, as the job may require daily use of multiple software applications, along with mechanical skills to handle a variety of manufacturing tools and equipment.

What are some common challenges Manufacturing Associates face, and how can they be addressed?

Manufacturing Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent quality under tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing production schedules, and ensuring safety in a fast-paced environment. Staying organized, following standardized operating procedures, and communicating effectively with team members can help address these issues. It's also beneficial to actively participate in training programs to stay updated on best practices and safety guidelines, which not only improves performance but can open doors to advancement opportunities within the organization.
More about Manufacturing Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing jobs in Ames, IA? The most popular types of Manufacturing jobs in Ames, IA are:
What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Associate jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Associate jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Manufacturing Associate jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Manufacturing Associate job openings:
Manufacturing Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Associate job openings in Ames, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,396 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer - Robotic Welding

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Ankeny, IA

$65K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Manufacturing Engineer - Robotic Welding

As a Manufacturing Engineer you will support the development, implementation, and optimization of automated welding systems for production. This role will involve hands-on work with robotic welding cells, collaboration with cross-functional teams, and implementation of lean manufacturing principles to improve quality, efficiency, and safety.

Responsibilities

  • Develop, implement, and optimize robotic welding processes and procedures to improve production efficiency and quality.

  • Program, troubleshoot, and maintain robotic welding equipment, ensuring repeatability and uptime.

  • Support new product launches by developing welding process plans, tooling, and fixture designs.

  • Collaborate with Product Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain to resolve production and quality issues.

  • Conduct weld trials, validate procedures, and perform weld inspections to industry and customer standards.

  • Analyze production data to identify opportunities for cost reduction, cycle time improvement, and scrap reduction.

  • Train operators and technicians on proper use and maintenance of robotic welding systems.

  • Ensure compliance with welding standards (AWS, ISO, customer specifications).

  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on welding processes, automation, and safety.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Welding Engineering, or related field.

  • 1–5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment with emphasis on welding automation.

  • Hands-on experience with robotic welding programming (Fanuc, ABB, Motoman, or equivalent).

  • Knowledge of welding metallurgy, weld symbols, and GD&T.

  • Proficiency with CAD software for fixture/tooling development.

  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and team collaboration skills.

  • Familiarity with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement practices.

Desired Attributes

  • AWS Certified Welding Engineer or Technologist certification (or ability to obtain).

  • Knowledge of PLCs, sensors, and automation integration.

  • Experience with weld testing, destructive/nondestructive inspection, and quality systems.

  • Practical, hands-on aptitude for troubleshooting manufacturing processes.

  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a cross-functional team.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $65,000-$95,000 Commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly