Machine Builder

Automation Assembly Technician

This role focuses on building and troubleshooting automated assembly machines, sub-assemblies, and electrical components using engineering blueprints and specifications. You will debug new machines and processes, perform precise machine alignments and final set-ups, and contribute to the planning and design of high-speed, precision machinery. The position blends hands-on mechanical and electrical work with problem-solving in a fast-paced automation environment.

Responsibilities

• Build automated assembly machines, sub-assemblies, and electrical components from engineering blueprints and detailed specifications.
• Troubleshoot automated assembly machines and related systems to identify and resolve mechanical, electrical, and controls issues.
• Debug machines and processes for new equipment, ensuring they operate reliably and meet performance requirements.
• Perform precise machine alignments and final set-ups to achieve optimal performance and product quality.
• Participate in the planning and design of high-speed, precision machinery by providing practical feedback on manufacturability and assembly.
• Interpret and work from engineering drawings, schematics, and work instructions to complete assemblies accurately.
• Assemble and debug pneumatic components, indexers, pick-and-place devices, metal forming tooling, punches, and dies.
• Use basic machine shop tools, including manual lathes and manual mills, to fabricate, modify, or fit parts as needed.
• Perform electrical assembly and wiring based on electrical schematics and layout diagrams.
• Troubleshoot control systems and perform PLC-related troubleshooting to support machine operation and debugging.
• Follow simple work instructions and visual guides, similar in style to an illustrated assembly manual, to complete builds and adjustments.
• Apply basic shop math to measurements, alignments, and calculations during assembly and set-up tasks.
• Collaborate with engineering and other technical staff to resolve build issues and implement design improvements.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and follow all safety procedures while working with mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic systems.

Essential Skills

• 5+ years of experience building automatic assembly equipment, including assembly and debugging of pneumatic components, indexers, pick-and-place devices, metal form tooling, punches, and dies.
• Proven mechanical aptitude with strong hands-on skills in mechanical assembly and machine building.
• Strong math skills with the ability to perform basic shop math for measurements, fits, and alignments.
• Ability to interpret and work from engineering drawings, blueprints, and schematics.
• Experience with automation, including building and troubleshooting automated assembly machines and related systems.
• Experience in heavy assembly (minimum of 3 years) such as machine building, ATM machines, heavy gearboxes, or similar equipment.
• Ability to follow simple work instructions and visual guides, comparable to illustrated assembly manuals.
• Knowledge of basic machine shop tools and their safe operation.
• Experience with mechanical and electrical assembly, including working from electrical schematics.
• Ability to troubleshoot control systems and perform PLC troubleshooting at a practical level.
• Capability to perform machine alignments and final set-ups for high-speed, precision machinery.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate's degree, specialized education, or vocational/technical training in a mechanical field or crafts trade is preferred.
• Experience with manual lathes and manual mills for basic machining and part modification.
• Familiarity with high-speed, precision machinery and automated production environments.
• Comfort working with pneumatic systems, metal forming tools, punches, and dies.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to debug complex mechanical and electrical issues.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with engineers and technical teams during machine design and development.
• Attention to detail and a focus on building reliable, high-quality equipment.

Why Work Here?

You will join a team that enjoys tackling challenging technical problems, working with cutting-edge automation technology, and having fun along the way. The organization supports its employees with comprehensive health, vision, dental, and retirement benefits, as well as holiday pay. You can expect a culture that values hands-on innovation, continuous learning, and collaboration in a supportive environment.

Work Environment

This position is based in a hands-on manufacturing and assembly environment focused on automated, high-speed, precision machinery. You will work with mechanical assemblies, electrical components, pneumatic systems, control systems, and basic machine shop equipment such as manual lathes and mills. Standard hours are structured across two shifts: a first shift from Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (one opening), and a second shift from Monday through Friday, 3:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. (two openings). The work involves standing, assembling, adjusting, and troubleshooting machinery on the shop floor while following safety procedures and using appropriate tools and equipment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Hawarden, IA.

Pay and Benefits

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

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Hawarden, IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 4, 2026.