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Mechanic Helper Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Our unique scale allows us to make entire industries less wasteful and more sustainable, helping ... A Mechanic 1 is designed to develop core competencies in fleet equipment maintenance under the ...

Great mechanical skills. (Experience with large machinery will be helpful, but any experience with mechanical repair of equipment is great.) * Basic understanding of AC/DC electrical systems ...

We will provide as much training as needed to help you succeed in this role. OPPORTUNITY We are looking for a highly-motivated Mechanic looking for a change in their daily routine. Must have:

Now Hiring Mechanics in our Burlington, IA plant! $3000 sign-on bonus Starting wage is $27.78 per hour 8 hours guaranteed overtime every 2 weeks. Only work half of the year. What We Offer You:

Mechanic

Burlington, IA · On-site

$27.79/hr

Now Hiring Mechanics in our Burlington, IA plant!$3000 sign-on bonus Starting wage is $27.78 per hour 8 hours guaranteed overtime every 2 weeks. Only work half of the year. What We Offer You:Starting ...

Mechanic

Burlington, IA · On-site

$27.78/hr

Now Hiring Mechanics in our Burlington, IA plant! $3000 sign-on bonus Starting wage is $27.78 per hour 8 hours guaranteed overtime every 2 weeks. Only work half of the year. What We Offer You:

Great mechanical skills. (Experience with large machinery will be helpful, but any experience with mechanical repair of equipment is great.) * Basic understanding of AC/DC electrical systems ...

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Press Helper/Web Pressman I Job Classification: Hourly, Non-exempt Department: Offset Printing ... Basic mechanical aptitude. Willingness to learn web press operations Language and Math Skills:

Mechanic

Muscatine, IA

$23.50 - $31/hr

We are seeking a highly skilled and ASE Certified Diesel Mechanic to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for inspecting, diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining diesel-powered ...

Diesel Mechanic Technician

Percival, IA

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Diesel Mechanic Are you looking for an opportunity to build a great career with a company where you ... Help train and advance other team members * Ensuring that housekeeping guidelines are followed

Diesel Mechanic Technician

Percival, IA · On-site

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Diesel Mechanic Are you looking for an opportunity to build a great career with a company where you ... Help train and advance other team members * Ensuring that housekeeping guidelines are followed

Help organize spare parts, tooling, and maintenance work areas to support a smooth transition from ... Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic issues, completing high‑quality ...

Fleet Mechanic

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $34.75/hr

As a fleet mechanic, automotive technician, you will help the terminal ensure that equipment is well-kept to allow the movement of freight throughout our network. This position offers competitive pay ...

DIesel Mechanic

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$24.50 - $32.25/hr

As a Diesel Mechanic (Service Tech III), you'll use your skills to perform maintenance and repairs ... With many veterans already part of our team, we're ready to help you transition into a rewarding ...

DIesel Mechanic

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$24.50 - $32.50/hr

As a Diesel Mechanic (Service Tech III), you'll use your skills to perform maintenance and repairs ... With many veterans already part of our team, we're ready to help you transition into a rewarding ...

Showing results 41-60

Mechanic Helper information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do mechanic helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for mechanic helper in Iowa is $18.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $19.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanic helper?

Mechanic Helpers are entry-level workers who assist mechanics and technicians in maintaining, repairing, and servicing vehicles or machinery. Their duties often include preparing work areas, handing tools to mechanics, cleaning equipment, and performing simple maintenance tasks under supervision. Mechanic Helpers gain hands-on experience and learn the trade, which can lead to more advanced positions in the automotive or mechanical field. The role requires attention to detail, willingness to learn, and good communication skills. It's a common starting point for those interested in a career in automotive repair or mechanical maintenance.

What does a mechanic helper do?

A mechanical helper assists an experienced automotive mechanic with their job duties. Your responsibilities are to help a journeyman mechanic with vehicle maintenance tasks, such as an oil change, tire rotation, or equipment repair. You also move vehicles and their parts and clean the work area. You may inspect the vehicle and note important observations for the mechanic. You remove and reassemble parts, assist with light maintenance duties, and keep equipment and tools clean for your supervising mechanic. Mechanic helpers typically work in this position for several months to learn the skills necessary to further their career and become a journeyman mechanic.

What are some typical responsibilities a mechanic helper can expect on a daily basis?

As a Mechanic Helper, you can expect to assist mechanics with tasks such as preparing work areas, handing tools and parts, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and performing basic repairs under supervision. You'll often be responsible for organizing parts, disposing of used materials, and ensuring safety protocols are followed in the workshop. This role is hands-on and provides valuable exposure to the technical aspects of mechanical work while supporting the team's overall efficiency.

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

To thrive as a Mechanic Helper, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, good manual dexterity, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as the ability to follow safety protocols, is typically required, and some employers may prefer candidates with vocational training or relevant certifications. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and a willingness to learn make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are vital for supporting mechanics effectively, maintaining safety standards, and ensuring efficient repairs and maintenance.

What is the difference between Mechanic Helper vs Automotive Technician?

AspectMechanic HelperAutomotive Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; ASE certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentAuto repair shops, garages, dealershipsAuto repair shops, dealerships, service centers
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist mechanics, perform basic repairs, maintenance tasksDiagnose, repair, and maintain vehicles independently

The main difference between a Mechanic Helper and an Automotive Technician is the level of responsibility and skill. Mechanic Helpers assist experienced mechanics with basic tasks and repairs, often requiring less formal certification. Automotive Technicians perform more complex diagnostics and repairs, often holding certifications like ASE. Both roles work in similar environments, but Automotive Technicians typically have greater independence and technical expertise.

How much do mechanic helpers make in the US?

Mechanic helpers in the US typically earn an average hourly wage of around $14 to $17, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $29,000 to $35,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and whether they work full-time or part-time, often requiring basic mechanical skills and safety knowledge.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanic jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Mechanic jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Mechanic Helper jobs in Iowa?

For Mechanic Helper jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Mechanic Helper jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Mechanic Helper job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Mechanic Helper jobs in IA?

For Mechanic Helper jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Mechanic Helper job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,105 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Darling Ingredients rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

254th of 444 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Company Details

Darling Ingredients repurposes and recycles materials from the animal agriculture and food industries - transforming them into essential ingredients that do everything from feeding animals to fertilizing crops to fueling planes and nourishing people. We're the number one publicly traded company of our kind, operating a global family of brands and businesses that span more than 260 facilities in over 15 countries. Our unique scale allows us to make entire industries less wasteful and more sustainable, helping move the world toward a more circular economy.

Darling Ingredients offers full time employees a full suite of benefits including but not limited to the following: 401(k), Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, and Paid Time Off.


Job Summary

The Mechanic 1 is responsible for conducting routine maintenance and performing basic repairs on trailers, diesel, and gasoline powered vehicles and plant equipment. A Mechanic 1 is designed to develop core competencies in fleet equipment maintenance under the supervision of Mechanic 2, 3, and Fleet Managers.

NIGHT SHIFT 5pm-5am

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Performs all preventive maintenance and repair work necessary on all fleet vehicles and plant vehicle, and plant equipment (wheel Loaders, Skid Steers, Man Lifts, Scissor Lifts, Backhoe, Lawn mowers, and Farm Tractors)

  • Reviews driver vehicle inspection reports and repair inspections as directed by Mechanic 3s and/or the Fleet Manager
  • Performs routine maintenance such as oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks
  • Inspects and replaces basic components like belts, hoses, batteries, and lights
  • Assists in diagnosing mechanical issues using basic diagnostic tools
  • Maintains cleanliness and organization of the shop and work areas
  • Documents work performed and parts used through maintenance logs or fleet management systems
  • Supports Mechanic 2 and 3,under their supervision, with more complex repairs and diagnostics
  • Responds to roadside service calls for disabled vehicles when required
  • Responsible for being familiar with and observing all company safety rules and regulations; recognizes that safety is top company priority; attends regularly scheduled safety meetings
  • Participate in ongoing training and certification programs (travel as needed)
  • Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED preferred
  • Must have valid Driver's license
  • 1+ year experience in vehicle maintenance or related technical field
  • Must have personal basic tool set to perform preventative maintenance (based on location)
  • Basic understanding of diesel and gasoline engine operation and components
  • Experience with hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment
  • Experience with basic computer tasks and use of fleet software
  • Detail oriented; highly organized

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Class A CDL preferred, may be required based on requirements of the location
  • Brake certification preferred, must be obtained within 6 months of hire date
  • Vocational training preferred
  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills
  • Self-starter; self-motivated


The information contained in this job description is intended to describe the essential job functions required of those assigned to this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the job. Please note that management retains the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. The ability to competently perform all the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, demonstrated commitment to effective customer service delivery, integrity, and the ability to work productively as a member of a team or work group are basic requirements of all positions at Darling Ingredients.


Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military service, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and local law. Know Your Rights: If you would like more information, please click on the link and paste into your browser: https://www.eeoc.gov/poster


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