Assembly Tech

Production Operations Technician

The Production Operations Technician coordinates parts, assembly, testing, painting, packaging, and shipping of products while performing a variety of hands-on manufacturing tasks. This role involves assembling and dismantling unit assemblies and complex subassemblies, operating manual and automatic equipment, and setting up machines according to detailed work process instructions. The technician rotates through multiple workstations within each assembly cell, performing repetitive tasks at a consistent pace to meet customer demand and ensure product quality.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate parts, assembly, testing, painting, packaging, and shipping activities to support efficient production flow.
• Perform a variety of manufacturing tasks, including assembling unit assemblies and complex subassemblies according to work process instructions.
• Set up, operate, and monitor manual and automatic equipment to support production requirements.
• Dismantle unit assemblies and complex subassembly workstations as needed for repair, rework, or process changes.
• Rotate among all stations within each assembly cell, performing repetitive tasks at a consistent pace to meet production targets and customer demands.
• Use power tools such as pneumatic wrenches, drills, and torque guns to assemble and secure components safely and accurately.
• Apply working knowledge to repair final unit assemblies and complex subassemblies to meet quality and performance standards.
• Follow established manufacturing procedures and quality guidelines to ensure consistent product quality.
• Perform basic quality inspection of assembled components and finished products to identify defects or deviations.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, adhering to safety protocols and proper handling of oil-lubricated hydraulic components.
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to report issues, request support, and ensure smooth workflow across assembly lines.

Essential Skills

• At least 6 months of prior production experience in a manufacturing environment.
• At least 6 months of experience in an assembly-based position.
• Ability to read, write, and understand work process instructions and production documentation.
• Proficiency in using hand tools and power tools, including pneumatic tools, wrenches, drills, and torque guns.
• Ability to perform repetitive assembly tasks at a consistent pace while maintaining attention to detail.
• Capability to repair final unit assemblies and complex subassemblies based on established procedures.
• Basic understanding of quality inspection principles in a production or assembly setting.
• Comfort working with oil-lubricated hydraulic components and related manufacturing processes.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in automotive or similar production environments is beneficial.
• Time working in manufacturing or technician roles involving assembly production is an advantage.
• Familiarity with multiple assembly lines and rotating workstations is helpful.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a large production team and adapt to different tasks and stations.
• Strong work ethic with reliability in meeting shift schedules and production goals.

Why Work Here?

You will join a large, established manufacturing operation with a stable workforce and clearly defined processes, offering the opportunity to build and expand your hands-on technical skills. The environment supports continuous learning through rotation across multiple assembly stations, giving you broad exposure to different products and equipment. You will work as part of a collaborative production team where consistent performance and quality are valued, and where you can contribute directly to meeting customer demands and supporting ongoing growth.

Work Environment

This role is based in a large manufacturing facility with approximately 270-290 production employees working across 131-14 different assembly lines. The operation focuses largely on hydraulic components, using oil for lubrication throughout the production process. Positions are available on multiple shifts, including 1st shift (6:00-2:00), 2nd shift (2:00-10:00), and 3rd shift (10:00-6:00), providing options for different schedules. The work is hands-on and fast-paced, requiring comfort with repetitive tasks and rotating between various assembly stations. The dress code includes steel-toed boots, jeans, and a t-shirt, along with gloves due to regular handling of oil-coated components, ensuring safety and practicality on the production floor.

Job Type & Location

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

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $20.70/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 Ames, IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 19, 2026.