Demo

1st Shift_ Machine Operator I_ Onsite

Collins Aerospace and Careers
West Des Moines, IA Full Time
POSTED ON 3/24/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/23/2026

Date Posted:

2026-03-10

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-IA-WEST DES MOINES-811 ~ 811 4th St ~ 4TH

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

This job requires a U.S. Person. A U.S. Person is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, U.S. permanent residents, or individuals granted refugee or asylee status in the U.S. are considered U.S. persons. For a complete definition of “U.S. Person” go here: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-22/chapter-I/subchapter-M/part-120/subpart-C/section-120.62

Security Clearance Type:

None/Not Required

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

Machine Operator I is an entry-level role designed for individuals looking to start a career in machining and manufacturing. No prior certification is required. In this position, you will receive hands-on training to develop a foundational understanding of machining operations and processes.

Working under the guidance of a certified Machine Operator (Level II or higher), you will learn to set up and operate a variety of CNC and manual machines to produce precision parts. You will follow established standard work, safety procedures, and quality requirements while building the skills needed to operate equipment effectively.

This role focuses on developing technical proficiency and preparing operators to achieve machine operator certification within 120 days. Operators are encouraged to ask questions, identify issues, and collaborate with experienced operators, lead technicians, supervisors, and engineers to ensure quality and continuous learning.

External applicants are eligible for a $1,000 sign on bonus.

What You Will Do:

  • Learn how to set up and operate precision manual and/or computerized machining centers according to standard.
  • Learn how to adjust machine feed/spindle speeds and the changing of tooling and cutters per machining.
  • Learn how to read and interpret blueprints and specifications.
  • Understand and follow quality testing techniques. Learn how to inspect product using precision gauges, measuring instruments and equipment.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in Manufacturing Documentation and Labor Transactions.
  • Support and follow all rules/guidelines/standards set by EHS, Quality, and CI functions as set by your leader and position.
  • Actively participates in the Continuous Improvement process as well as safety related activities.
  • Works under immediate supervision. Normally receives detailed instructions on all work.
  • Develops basic job skills and learns company policies and procedures to complete routine tasks.
  • Tasks are routine/ repetitive in nature, requiring limited judgment. Has little or no role in decision-making.
  • Over 40 hours per week as scheduled to meet business needs.
  • All other duties as assigned including working extended shifts/overtime as required by the business.
  • Willingness to work nonstandard hours
  • Some Holiday hours may be required based on business need
  • Working extended shifts/overtime as required by the business
  • Works closely with Engineering when problems arise and take feedback on process changes

Qualifications We Require:

  • Typically requires HS diploma (or equivalent, e.g. G.E.D. in the US) or vocational/technical education in related discipline

Qualifications We Prefer:

  • CNC Lathe experience
  • CNC Mill experience
  • Manual dexterity to perform tasks associated with machine operations
  • Previous experience reading and understanding blueprints.
  • Basic computer proficiency (e-mail, print documents, internet)
  • Experience operating a computer to access prints and/or specified work instructions.
  • Basic shop math including knowledge of Geometric Tolerances.
  • Basic proficiency with identifying, analyzing, and resolving problems.
  • Experience with Micrometers, Drop Indicators, and other measurement devices.
  • Previous experience trouble shooting issues when setting up the machine
  • Previous experience effectively communicating with all levels of employees and management.

Learn More & Apply Now!

We make modern flight possible for millions of travelers and our military every second. Our major product lines are on-board virtually every aircraft flying. Be it keeping passengers safe with our emergency power generation systems or creating a positive in-flight experience through reliable cabin pressure controls and quieter engines, Power & Controls focuses on delivering a best-in-class experience to our customers. We hire the top people in the industry. Their ideas drive our performance, and their integrity keeps our customers happy. Join us as we take flight!

  • Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role.

Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.

Regardless of your role type, collaboration and innovation are critical to our business and all employees will have access to digital tools so they can work with colleagues around the world – and access to Collins sites when their work requires in-person meetings.

This position is considered safety sensitive in accordance with FAA Guidelines. Candidate will be subject to drug and alcohol testing per FAA’s regulation 14 CFR part 120, as well as 49 CFR part 40

At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form – with our customers and with each other - propel us all higher, again and again.

Apply now and be part of the team that’s redefining aerospace, every day.

#TopOp

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.

Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance.

This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.

RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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Salary.com Estimation for 1st Shift_ Machine Operator I_ Onsite in West Des Moines, IA
$52,232 to $66,948
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