Press Operator

Iowa Aluminum, Inc.; Albia (IA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa Aluminum, Inc. in Albia, IA is hiring a Press Operator apprentice to run the extrusion press and support quality and maintenance activities.

You will learn to monitor temperature, speed, and pressure while maintaining high safety and cleanliness standards on the shop floor. Successful candidates will complete the Iowa Aluminum Press Operator Apprenticeship Program, gaining hands-on skills and classroom instruction.

Qualifications

• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability.
• Reliability, accountability, and commitment to safety.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Physical ability to lift up to 100 pounds and perform bending, lifting, and reaching.
• Basic math and computer skills (measurement conversions, data entry, process tracking).

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate the extrusion press according to production schedules and job specifications.
• Monitor the extrusion process, including temperature, speed, and pressure adjustments, to maintain product quality and production efficiency.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning and lubricating hot shear, container, butt shear and dummy block to ensure smooth operation.
• Troubleshoot issues with the press or related equipment to minimize downtime, collaborating with the maintenance team as needed.
• Keep accurate records of production data and document maintenance activities, issues, and deviations.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Problem-solving

Reliability

Teamwork

Basic math

Data entry

Education

Iowa Aluminum Press Operator Apprenticeship Program

Tools

Measuring equipment

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Albia, IA 52531

As a Press Operator at Iowa Aluminum, you will be responsible for operating the extrusion press, a critical piece of machinery in the manufacturing of aluminum extrusions. Your role will ensure that the extrusion processes run smoothly and efficiently, producing high-quality aluminum products that meet our exacting standards.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Operation

• Set up and operate the extrusion press according to production schedules and specific job specifications.
• Monitor the extrusion process, including temperature, speed, and pressure adjustments, to maintain product quality and production efficiency.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks, such as: cleaning and lubricating hot shear, container, butt sheer and dummy block to ensure smooth operation.
• Troubleshoot issues with the press or related equipment to minimize downtime, collaborating with the maintenance team as needed.

Quality Assurance

• Routinely perform quality checks at the press exit to assess the extrusion for contour, flatness, and die lines, ensuring compliance with our standards.
• Report any quality issues to the quality control team for immediate action.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and organization around the press area to prevent potential quality issues.
• Responsible for maintaining all measuring equipment and tools required for the job.

Maintenance and Safety

• Adhere to all safety protocols and wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) while operating machinery.
• Participate in safety and job training sessions as required.
• Work closely with the maintenance team to address and resolve technical problems, ensuring that all safety and quality standards are met during production.

Record Keeping

• Keep accurate records of production data.
• Document maintenance activities, any issues encountered during the shift, and report any deviations or abnormalities.

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with other team members to ensure a seamless production process and provide assistance in making crucial decisions regarding the continuation of a die.
• Provide training and assistance to new team members or operators as needed.
• Capable of working unsupervised or with minimal supervision, maintaining productivity and adherence to standards.

Trade Apprenticeship

Must successfully complete the Iowa Aluminum Press Operator Apprenticeship Program, a U.S. Department of Labor-recognized program that combines paid, hands-on training with classroom instruction.

Ideal Candidates

• Individuals are interested in building a long-term career in a skilled trade.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability.
• Reliability, accountability, and commitment to safety.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Physical ability to lift up to 100 pounds and perform tasks involving frequent bending, lifting, and reaching.
• Basic math and computer skills (measurement conversions, data entry, process tracking).

Skills You Will Gain Through Apprenticeship

• Safe operation of advanced extrusion press equipment.
• Understanding of aluminum alloys, extrusion processes, and industry standards.
• Proficiency in precision measurement and quality checks to ensure compliance with customer and regulatory requirements.
• Foundational knowledge of dies and tooling and their role in shaping aluminum profiles.
• Ability to recognize and respond to production defects and process variations.
• Knowledge of workplace safety systems, lockout/tagout, and OSHA standards.
• Hands-on troubleshooting skills and experience supporting process improvements.
• Transferable trade skills - mechanical, technical, and quality-focused - that create pathways to advanced operator, lead, or supervisory roles.