1st Shift_ Machine Operator II_ Onsite

Collins Aerospace; West Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Collins Aerospace seeks an onsite Machine Operator II in West Des Moines, IA to set up and run CNC and manual machines to fabricate precision parts. The role requires reading blueprints, basic shop math, and the ability to troubleshoot processes. Training will be provided for newer operators, with overtime as needed.

Applicants should have a HS diploma or equivalent and at least 1 year of relevant experience. Flexibility for nonstandard hours is expected.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or equivalent with 1 year of relevant experience.
• Ability to read blueprints and specifications.
• Willingness to work nonstandard hours and overtime.
• Ability to train others.

Responsibilities

• Adjust feed/spindle speeds and tooling per specs.
• Set up and operate CNC and manual machines for precision parts.
• Read and interpret blueprints and specifications.
• Troubleshoot problems and assist with new processes.
• Inspect products using precision gauges and instruments.
• Maintain/provide daily/weekly equipment checks.
• Train and mentor new operators.

Skills

Manual dexterity

Blueprint reading

Troubleshooting

Shop math

Teamwork

Education

HS diploma or equivalent

Tools

CNC machines

G-code familiarity

Job description

Location:

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

Date Posted:

2026-09-19

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

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.

Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

Role Overview:

Machine Operator II is the next level of progression in the machine operation field. Machine operator II has successfully completed both practical demonstration and written exam requirements associated with certification. Operator fully demonstrates the ability to set up and operate CNC and/or manual machines to produce precision parts for at least one program with lo-moderate complexity without oversight. Operator follows and complies with established standard work practices under general supervision. The operator will typically refer to problems or deviations to more experienced operators including Lead Technicians, supervisors or engineers.

What You Will Do:

• Adjust machine feed/spindle speeds and the changing of tooling and cutters per machining specifications.
• Set up and operate precision manual and/or computerized machining centers according to standard work.
• Read and interpret blueprints and specifications.
• Troubleshoots problems and assists with the development of new machining processes.
• Provide suggestions for improving processes to reduce COPQ and improve efficiency in order to reduce costs.
• Follow quality testing techniques. Inspect product using precision gauges, measuring instruments and equipment.
• Support the needs of other business units and cells in accordance to customer demand.
• Operate and do daily/weekly checks on equipment.
• Train and mentor new and/or less experienced operators on programs within their discipline.
• Maintain 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.
• Works under general supervision. Normally receives little instruction on daily work, general instructions on newly introduced assignments.
• Applies intermediate job skills and company policies and procedures to complete assigned tasks.
• Tasks are moderately difficult, requiring judgment in resolving problems or in making recommendations. Solves basic problems.
• Actively participates in the Continuous Improvement process as well as safety related activities.
• 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

Qualifications We Require

• Typically requires HS diploma (or equivalent, e.g. G.E.D in the US) or vocational/ technical education in related discipline with a minimum of 1 years of relevant experience

Qualifications We Prefer

• Manual dexterity to perform tasks associated with machine operations
• Successful completion of written and practical requirements.
• Ability to train others.
• Demonstrate program proficiency while possessing minimal scrap and rework.
• Basic proficiency reading and understanding prints.
• Moderate computer proficiency (e-mail, print documents, internet) and ability to learn how to operate a computer to access prints and/or specified work instructions.
• Basic shop math including knowledge of Geometric Tolerances.
• Moderate proficiency with identifying, analyzing, and resolving problems.
• Basic knowledge of ACE principles and their application plus utilizes ACE portal on a regular basis to document issues and opportunities.
• Basic knowledge of manufacturing principles and processes.
• Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of employees and management.

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.

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.

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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