Assembly / Machine Builder – Custom Heavy Equipment

Location: Waterloo, IA
Pay: $24–$29/hour DOE
Employment Type: Direct Hire | Full-Time | Onsite
Shift: First Shift
Benefits: Full Benefits
Local Candidates Only

Position Overview

We are seeking a mechanically skilled Assembly / Machine Builder for a direct-hire opportunity with a manufacturing operation in Waterloo, Iowa.

This is not a typical high-production assembly position. This is a low-volume, custom machine-building environment where you will work with a team to build large, made-to-order industrial machines weighing approximately 50,000 pounds from the ground up.

The Assembly / Machine Builder will work from blueprints, drawings, sketches, and verbal instructions to assemble mechanical components and systems into complete machines. The position requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to understand how individual components work together as part of a larger mechanical system.

Candidates with previous machine-building, industrial assembly, industrial maintenance, millwright, heavy-equipment, diesel, automotive, agricultural-equipment, or other hands-on mechanical experience are encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Build large, custom industrial machines from initial assembly through completion.
• Assemble made-to-order equipment according to blueprints, drawings, sketches, and specifications.
• Read and interpret mechanical blueprints and assembly drawings.
• Install and assemble mechanical components, hardware, and related equipment.
• Work with hydraulic components and systems during machine assembly.
• Perform basic 12V electrical wiring and component connections as required.
• Use wrenches, sockets, air tools, power tools, and other mechanical assembly equipment.
• Use overhead cranes and material-handling equipment to safely position large components during assembly.
• Assist with fitting, alignment, adjustment, and final assembly of machine components.
• Identify assembly or fitment issues and work with team members to resolve mechanical problems.
• Inspect completed work for proper fit, function, and conformance to drawings and specifications.
• Operate a forklift or complete company-provided forklift training.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Follow all company safety procedures while working around heavy equipment and suspended loads.
• Work effectively as part of a team throughout the complete machine-building process.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1+ years of manufacturing, mechanical, machine-building, industrial assembly, equipment repair, or comparable hands-on mechanical experience.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to understand mechanical components and assemblies.
• Ability to read and work from blueprints and mechanical drawings.
• Basic understanding of hydraulic components and their function.
• Basic understanding of 12V electrical wiring.
• Experience using hand tools, wrenches, air tools, and power tools.
• Ability to safely work around overhead cranes, steel, heavy components, and material-handling equipment.
• Forklift experience or willingness and ability to complete forklift training.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds regularly and up to 75 pounds as required.
• Ability to stand and remain physically active throughout the workday.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.
• Ability to work full-time onsite in Waterloo, Iowa.

Preferred Background

Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:

• Custom machine building
• Industrial equipment assembly
• Millwright or industrial mechanical work
• Industrial maintenance
• Heavy-equipment repair
• Diesel or truck repair
• Automotive mechanical work
• Agricultural or farm-equipment repair
• Hydraulic equipment
• Mechanical fabrication and fitting
• Large machinery or equipment installation

Candidates do not need to come from a traditional production-assembly background. Hands-on mechanical experience working on cars, trucks, heavy equipment, machinery, or other mechanical systems may be highly relevant to this position.

Work Environment

This is a low-volume, custom manufacturing environment rather than repetitive production-line assembly. Team members work together to build large machines from start to finish, requiring mechanical problem-solving, blueprint reading, attention to detail, and hands-on assembly skills.

The position involves frequent standing, tool use, material handling, and work around large steel components and heavy equipment.

Compensation & Benefits

$24–$29/hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

This is a direct-hire, first-shift position with full benefits.

Candidates must be local to the Waterloo, Iowa area. Relocation assistance is not available.

Employment is subject to applicable drug screening and background-check requirements.