Industrial Machinery Helper in Iowa Career Overview
As an Industrial Machinery Helper, your role is centered around supporting skilled workers in the setup, operation, and maintenance of machinery used in manufacturing and production processes. This position is vital to ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently while supporting a variety of manufacturing environments.
Key aspects of the role include:
Assisting with Equipment Operation: You help operate machinery, following guidelines provided by skilled operators, to maintain productivity on the production floor.
Maintaining Equipment: You play a role in routine maintenance tasks, ensuring that machinery is in good working order and addressing minor issues before they escalate.
Material Handling: You assist in the organization and movement of materials needed for production, ensuring that everything is in place for efficient operations.
Safety Compliance: You contribute to maintaining a safe working environment by adhering to safety procedures and helping to enforce them among your colleagues.
Learning and Development: This role allows you to learn about different types of machinery and processes, enhancing your understanding of the manufacturing sector and opening doors for future career advancement.
In this capacity, you are essential to the manufacturing process, providing necessary support that helps skilled workers focus on more complex tasks while ensuring the overall productivity and safety of the workplace.
Industrial Machinery Helper Salary in Iowa
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an Industrial Machinery Helper in Iowa
To become an Industrial Machinery Helper, you typically need to complete certain educational qualifications and training programs. The following college degree programs are relevant for this career:
Heavy Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technology: This program focuses on the maintenance and repair of large industrial machinery and equipment. You will learn about diagnostics, repair techniques, and the principles of heavy equipment operation.
Industrial Engineering: This program equips you with a solid foundation in optimizing complex processes and systems. Studying industrial engineering provides insights into the efficient integration of machinery, materials, and personnel.
Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology: This program emphasizes the troubleshooting and repair of machinery in various industrial settings. You will gain hands-on experience with mechanical systems, which is essential for the role of an Industrial Machinery Helper.
Maintenance Technology: This program covers the skills necessary for preventive and corrective maintenance on industrial equipment. You will learn about various types of maintenance practices and the technologies used in the industry.
In addition to these degree programs, obtaining relevant certifications or completing on-the-job training can further enhance your qualifications in this field.
Best Schools to become a Industrial Machinery Helper in Iowa 2024
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
Texas A & M University-College Station
Gadsden State Community College
Clemson University
Georgia Northwestern Technical College
Elizabethtown Community and Technical College
- Help installation, maintenance, and repair workers in maintenance, parts replacement, and repair of vehicles, industrial machinery, and electrical and electronic equipment.
- Perform duties such as furnishing tools, materials, and supplies to other workers; cleaning work area, machines, and tools; and holding materials or tools for other workers.
Industrial Machinery Helper Required Skills and Competencies in Iowa
Mechanical Aptitude: Develop a strong understanding of machinery and mechanical systems. This involves the ability to troubleshoot and resolve basic machinery issues efficiently.
Attention to Detail: Cultivate the ability to notice small discrepancies and ensure that machinery is functioning correctly. Precision in your work reduces the risk of errors and improves overall safety.
Safety Awareness: Prioritize safety protocols and practices to minimize accidents and injuries in the workplace. Understanding industry safety regulations and standards is essential.
Physical Stamina and Strength: Maintain good physical condition to handle the demands of the job. Tasks may require lifting heavy objects, standing for long periods, and performing repetitive motions.
Problem-Solving Skills: Enhance your ability to identify problems quickly and develop effective solutions. This skill is critical when dealing with equipment malfunctions or operational inefficiencies.
Basic Electrical Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with basic electrical systems and components associated with industrial machinery. This knowledge will be beneficial for troubleshooting issues.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Work well with other team members to ensure efficient operation and maintenance of machinery. Strong interpersonal skills enhance communication and collaboration.
Time Management: Effectively prioritize tasks to ensure that machinery maintenance and repairs are completed on schedule. Being organized helps optimize production timelines.
Willingness to Learn: Demonstrate an eagerness to acquire new skills and knowledge, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of industrial technology. Stay updated with advancements in machinery and techniques.
Basic Mathematical Skills: Apply fundamental math skills for measurements, calculations, and data interpretation, which are essential in performing maintenance tasks accurately.
Job Duties for Industrial Machinery Helpers
Examine and test machinery, equipment, components, and parts for defects to ensure proper functioning.
Install or replace machinery, equipment, and new or replacement parts and instruments, using hand or power tools.
Tend and observe equipment and machinery to verify efficient and safe operation.
Computer aided design CAD software
- HVAC tools software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Word processing software
- Atlas Construction Business Forms
- Microsoft Word
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Industrial Machinery Helper in Iowa
The job market for Industrial Machinery Helpers in Iowa is currently characterized by a steady demand, driven by various sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and maintenance services.
Demand and Employment Opportunities:
The need for skilled support in operating and maintaining industrial machinery is increasing as businesses expand their operations and upgrade their equipment. As industries invest in new technologies, the requirement for helpers to assist in day-to-day operations has similarly grown.Growth Potential:
The industrial sector in Iowa is experiencing a modest rate of growth, which, in turn, facilitates a positive outlook for the role of Industrial Machinery Helper. As new companies emerge and existing companies scale their production capacities, more positions are expected to open up. Additionally, advancements in manufacturing techniques often necessitate the hiring of workers to ensure operations run smoothly.Geographical Hotspots:
Several regions in Iowa serve as hotspots for job opportunities in this field, including:- Des Moines: As the state capital, Des Moines hosts numerous manufacturing facilities and distribution centers that require industrial machinery support.
- Cedar Rapids: Known for its diverse manufacturing base, Cedar Rapids offers positions associated with various industries, particularly in aerospace and transportation.
- Davenport: This city is part of the Quad Cities and includes many manufacturing firms that frequently seek industrial machinery helpers.
- Sioux City: With a growing industrial base, Sioux City offers employment prospects in machinery operation and maintenance.
Industry Sectors:
The automotive, agricultural, and food processing industries are among those most actively hiring Industrial Machinery Helpers in Iowa. The agricultural sector, in particular, frequently requires assistance with machinery related to farming and food production processes.
With the ongoing evolution in the industrial landscape, staying informed about local job postings and networking with industry professionals can significantly enhance your opportunities as an Industrial Machinery Helper in Iowa.
Top Related Careers to Industrial Machinery Helper 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Industrial Machinery Helper in Iowa
National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS)
Website: nims-skills.org
Description: NIMS offers credentials and training programs for metalworking professionals, which can be beneficial for Industrial Machinery Helpers looking to advance their skills.Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Website: osha.gov
Description: OSHA provides guidelines and resources related to workplace safety, essential for anyone working with industrial machinery.Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (IAM)
Website: iowamanufacturing.org
Description: IAM promotes workforce development initiatives in Iowa, offering training programs and resources tailored to manufacturing careers.Iowa Workforce Development
Website: iwd.iowa.gov
Description: This state agency provides job resources, career training, and apprenticeship programs. Explore various employment services related to industrial machinery.American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
Website: asme.org
Description: ASME offers professional development resources, industry news, and networking opportunities for those interested in mechanical engineering and machinery.Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training (TAACCCT) Program
Website: doleta.gov/taaccct
Description: This program provides funding for community colleges to develop training programs in high-demand fields, including manufacturing.LinkedIn Learning
Website: linkedin.com/learning
Description: A platform offering a variety of courses related to machinery, manufacturing processes, and safety procedures, beneficial for skill enhancement.Manufacturing Institute
Website: manufacturinginstitute.org
Description: Focused on workforce development, this organization provides resources on training and education specifically for the manufacturing sector.Books and Publications
- "Machinery's Handbook"
Publisher: Industrial Press, Inc.
Description: A comprehensive resource for anyone working in the machinery field, covering technical specifications and industry standards. - "Fundamentals of Machining and Machine Tools"
Author: G. Boothroyd
Description: Offers insights into machining processes, useful for anyone starting in the industrial machinery field.
- "Machinery's Handbook"
Local Technical Colleges and Community Colleges in Iowa
Examples:- Iowa Central Community College: iowacentral.edu
- Hawkeye Community College: hawkeyecollege.edu
- DMACC (Des Moines Area Community College): dmacc.edu
Description: These institutions often offer specific programs and courses related to industrial machinery and technical skills.
Utilize these resources to enhance your knowledge and skills as an Industrial Machinery Helper and to find potential job opportunities in Iowa's manufacturing sector.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Industrial Machinery Helper in Iowa
What does an Industrial Machinery Helper do?
An Industrial Machinery Helper assists machinery repairers and operators in various tasks, including maintaining and troubleshooting machinery, setting up equipment, and ensuring a clean and safe work environment.What qualifications are needed to become an Industrial Machinery Helper?
Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Vocational training or experience in mechanical work can be advantageous, but on-the-job training is often provided.Is prior experience necessary for this position?
Prior experience in machinery operation or maintenance can be beneficial, but many employers are willing to train candidates without experience. A strong mechanical aptitude can help you succeed in this role.What skills are important for an Industrial Machinery Helper?
Key skills include:- Basic mechanical skills
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Attention to detail
- Physical stamina and the ability to lift heavy objects
- Effective communication skills
What is the typical work environment for this job?
You will typically work in industrial settings such as factories, manufacturing plants, or construction sites. The environment can be noisy and may involve exposure to hazardous materials, so following safety protocols is essential.What is the job outlook for Industrial Machinery Helpers in Iowa?
The job outlook for Industrial Machinery Helpers is generally favorable, driven by ongoing needs for machinery maintenance and repair in various industries. However, job availability may vary by region.What are the typical hours worked in this position?
You may work full-time hours, which can include evening, weekend, or overtime shifts depending on the employer and the demands of the job.What opportunities for advancement exist in this career?
With experience and additional training, you may have the opportunity to advance to positions such as industrial machinery repairer or technician, supervisor, or even managerial roles within the maintenance department.What professional organizations or certifications should I consider?
While certification is not mandatory, pursuing training programs or certifications in industrial maintenance can enhance your qualifications. Organizations such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) offer relevant certifications.How much can I expect to earn as an Industrial Machinery Helper?
Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer. In Iowa, the average annual income for Industrial Machinery Helpers tends to be competitive, with variations depending on demand and industry standards.