Trainee Cnc Machine Shop Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: CNC Lathe Machinist

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced CNC Lathe Machinist to independently interpret blueprints, program CNC equipment, and manufacture precision parts to exact specifications. This is a hands-on role that involves programming, setup, and operation of CNC lathes and machining centers, with responsibility for producing high-quality components from raw material through final production.

Responsibilities

• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and detailed part specifications to determine machining requirements.
• Develop and write CNC programs for Haas machining centers and CNC lathes using G-code.
• Set up CNC lathes and mills, including selecting and installing tooling, setting work offsets, and verifying machine readiness.
• Operate CNC equipment to produce precision parts that meet dimensional and quality requirements.
• Select appropriate tooling, speeds, feeds, and machining processes based on material and part geometry.
• Perform first-piece inspections and verify dimensions using precision measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers.
• Make program edits and adjustments to optimize cycle times, improve quality, and resolve machining issues.
• Troubleshoot machining problems and equipment issues to maintain consistent production and part quality.
• Work independently to machine parts from raw material through to finished components, including any required rework or adjustments.
• Apply a strong understanding of tooling, workholding, and machining processes to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and productive work environment in the machine shop, following all PPE and safety requirements.
• Collaborate with team members as needed to support prototype, custom, or low-volume production work.

Essential Skills

• Previous CNC machining experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical prints, engineering drawings, and technical part specifications.
• Experience writing and editing CNC programs from scratch, including G-code programming for lathes and mills.
• Hands-on experience setting up and operating CNC lathes and/or CNC mills.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills for machining and equipment issues.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while meeting quality and production expectations.
• Proficiency using precision measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers for dimensional verification.
• Practical knowledge of CNC machine operation, axis movements, and basic programming codes.
• Experience with CNC Haas machines or similar CNC equipment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Manual machining experience, including manual mill, lathe, and related equipment.
• Experience programming and operating Haas CNC machines.
• Strong understanding of tooling selection, workholding methods, and machining processes.
• Comfort working with both CNC and manual machining equipment.
• Ability to adapt to varied job orders and custom part requirements.

Why Work Here?

You will join a laid-back, collaborative machine shop environment where skilled machinists work from diverse job orders on custom parts and projects. The culture emphasizes safety, craftsmanship, and mutual support, while offering a stable weekday schedule that supports work-life balance. You will have the opportunity to apply and grow your technical expertise in CNC and manual machining on a variety of interesting, non-repetitive work.

Work Environment

This role is based in a machine shop environment that is described as laid back and focused on custom and job-order work. Team members typically wear jeans, steel-toed boots, and polos, and follow established safety protocols. Required PPE includes hard hats or bump hats, safety eyewear, and steel-toed boots. The standard shift runs Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Work involves operating CNC lathes and Haas machining centers, using both CNC and manual machining equipment, and handling raw materials and finished parts in a production setting

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Des Moines, IA.

The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Des Moines,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 18, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.