Temporary Full-Time Trade Assistant

State-of-Iow; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

The Iowa Department of Transportation is seeking temporary full-time Trade Assistants to help keep our facilities operating smoothly. Location is Ames Complex with Monday–Friday shifts 8:00–4:30pm.

You will assist with maintenance, support skilled trades staff, and perform prep tasks while following safety procedures. No formal education required, but a valid Iowa driver’s license and ability to travel between sites are needed.

Qualifications

• No formal education required.
• Valid Iowa driver’s license.
• Willingness to learn safety and compliance procedures.
• Ability to travel between sites as needed.
• General knowledge of building trades (carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, electrical).

Responsibilities

• Assist with general maintenance tasks and basic repairs.
• Support trades staff by preparing work areas and gathering materials.
• Operate hand and basic power tools safely and as directed.
• Carry, lift, and assemble materials as required.
• Follow safety procedures and report unsafe conditions or equipment issues promptly.

Skills

Building trades

Basic computer skills

Independent worker

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Job description

Looking for a hands‑on job where you can make a real impact? The Iowa Department of Transportation is hiring temporary full-time Trade Assistants to help our keep our facilities operating smoothly.

Location

Ames Complex

Shift Requirements

Monday – Friday, 8:00 – 4:30pm flexible hours

As a temporary worker, your duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Assist with general maintenance tasks, including repairs, installations, and basic upkeep of facilities or equipment.
• Perform manual labor such as lifting, carrying, assembling materials, or preparing work areas as directed.
• Operate hand tools and basic power tools safely and in accordance with guidelines.
• Support skilled trades staff (e.g., electricians, plumbers) by gathering materials, cleaning workspaces, and completing assigned preparatory tasks.
• Follow all safety procedures and report unsafe conditions or equipment issues promptly.

What you need:

• A valid Iowa driver’s license.
• General knowledge of plumbing, electrical, hvac.
• Ability to work independently and travel between sites as needed.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced environment.
• Willingness to learn safety, sanitation, and compliance procedures.
• Basic computer skills for administrative tasks.

No specific education required

General knowledge in any the recognized building and mechanical trades (carpentry, electrical, heating and air conditioning, machinist, machine repair, masonry, painting, pipefitting, plumbing, refrigeration, and welding) is required