1st Shift_ Machine Operator III_ Onsite

Collins Aerospace; West Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) match

Paid time off

Sign-on bonus

Flexible scheduling

Job summary

RTX's Collins Aerospace unit in West Des Moines, IA seeks a Machine Operator III for onsite work. You will set up and operate precision manual and CNC machines, read blueprints, troubleshoot issues, and help improve processes to reduce costs.

You will also train teammates and ensure quality through standard work practices. The role requires reading prints, applying geometric tolerances, and using ACE principles.

Qualifications

• Typically requires HS diploma (or equivalent) with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience.
• ACE associate or equivalent certification preferred.
• Advanced reading of prints and geometric tolerances; able to train others.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate precision manual and CNC machines per standard work.
• Read blueprints and specifications; interpret technical prints.
• Troubleshoot issues and contribute to process improvements to reduce COPQ.
• Provide guidance and training to other operators.
• Maintain manufacturing documentation and labor transactions.
• Work extended shifts/overtime as required; adhere to EHS/CI guidelines.

Skills

Manual dexterity

Train others

Geometric tolerances

ACE principles

Problem solving

Interpersonal communication

Education

HS diploma or GED

ACE associate certification (preferred)

Tools

MS Office

ACE portal

Print documents access

Job description

Date Posted: 2026-09-17

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.

External candidates will receive a $1,000 sign on bonus.

Machine Operator III is considered a specialist within the discipline performing work on multiple programs. Operator regularly demonstrates the expert ability and proficiency to set up and operate all conventional CNC and manual machining equipment without oversight. Is fully able to troubleshoot issues and be aware of resources that can assist with problems. Actively works to promote and suggest improvements in all machining related activities to reduce COPQ and improve efficiency in order to reduce costs. Operator will have a proven track record of producing high quality work in an efficient manner that meets or exceeds current standards. Operator will show a high level of understanding of all machining related activities and will assist engineers, planners and team coordinators in achieving any machining related goals such as planning throughput, recommending changes to improve set-up, or techniques for new product development. Will assist lead technicians as needed and are responsible to train others on programs within their discipline. Operator may have certifications in other disciplines.

What You Will Do

• Set up and operate precision manual and/or computerized machining centers according to standard work.
• Adjust machine feed/spindle speeds and the changing of tooling and cutters per machining specifications.
• 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 2 years of relevant experience

Qualifications We Prefer

• ACE associate or equivalent certification preferred
• 3+ years progressive experience in a related machine operator role in a manufacturing or related environment preferred.
• Manual dexterity to perform tasks associated with machine operations.
• Ability to train others.
• Demonstrated program proficiency while possessing minimal scrap and rework.
• Advanced proficiency reading and understanding prints.
• Moderate to advanced computer proficiency (e-mail, familiarity with MS office, print documents, and internet) including the ability to operate a computer to access prints and/or specified work instructions and can train others on this process.
• Basic shop math including knowledge of Geometric Tolerances. Advanced proficiency with identifying, analyzing, and resolving problems.
• Working knowledge of ACE principles and their application plus utilizes ACE portal on a regular basis to document issues and opportunities.
• Advanced knowledge of manufacturing principles and processes.
• Comprehensive knowledge of machining techniques.
• Advanced interpersonal skills with the ability to train others on machine operations including concepts, processes, and practices.
• Proven track record of training and sharing knowledge of machine operations and related activities.
• Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of employees and management.

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

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.