Mechanical Assembler

WATERLOO, IA
Full Time
Mid Level

CPM Holdings, Inc. is a diversified leading global supplier of process equipment and engineered technologies that sustainably feed, fuel, and build a better world.  With its growing family of 17 market-leading product brands, CPM serves a variety of industries including animal feed, consumer food, green energy, advanced materials and sustainable packaging.  Founded in 1883, CPM has 1,700 employees across 36 facilities on 4 continents with presence in 150+ countries.  From the foods you eat to the fuels you require, CPM plays an important role in making the world more efficient and more sustainable.

Position Summary

The Mechanical Assembler (Industrial Equipment) builds complex mechanical subassemblies and complete machines by interpreting detailed prints, specifications, and work instructions. The role routinely performs precision fits, torque-to-spec fastening, alignments, and functional verification while working safely with lifting devices and shop equipment. This position also supports troubleshooting, rework/ECN implementation, and continuous improvement, and may provide guidance to less experienced assemblers.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Assemble complex industrial equipment, modules, and subassemblies by following routers, work instructions, bill of materials, and engineering drawings.
  • Interpret mechanical prints and specifications, including dimensions/tolerances and assembly requirements; ensure correct revisions and documentation are used.
  • Perform precision mechanical assembly operations (fits, shimming, bearing installation, sealing, fastening) using proper methods and tools.
  • Set up and use hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment (e.g., torque wrenches/multipliers, presses, hoists, cranes, drills) safely and effectively.
  • Measure and verify dimensions, fits, and clearances using gauges and measuring tools (e.g., calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, feeler gauges).
  • Complete critical fastener installation per requirements (torque patterns, prevailing torque, thread treatments, locking features) and document results as required.
  • Perform mechanical adjustments, alignments, and verification checks (e.g., couplings, shafts, belt/chain drives, guarding) to ensure proper operation.
  • Install and route hydraulic and/or pneumatic components (e.g., hoses, tubing, fittings) per standard; verify correct orientation, torque, and leak-prevention practices.
  • Execute functional checks or basic test procedures per instruction; identify abnormal operation and escalate issues promptly.
  • Troubleshoot assembly issues (missing/damaged/nonconforming parts, fit-up problems, defects) and coordinate with leads, quality, and engineering to resolve.
  • Perform rework and implement engineering changes (ECNs/ECRs) per approved instructions; ensure documentation and traceability are maintained.
  • Mentor and support less experienced assemblers through demonstration of standard work, safe practices, and workmanship expectations.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area; follow 5S, standard work, and continuous improvement practices.
  • Accurately record labor/time, material usage, and production status in the company system (e.g., ERP/MES) as required.
  • Follow all safety policies including lockout/tagout, PPE, lifting/rigging, and equipment guarding requirements.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required; technical certificate, apprenticeship, or military technical training in mechanical assembly or related field preferred.
  • 5+ years of mechanical assembly experience in an industrial equipment or heavy manufacturing environment required.
  • Ability to read and interpret detailed mechanical drawings, specifications, and work instructions; comfortable working to tolerances and torque requirements.
  • Strong working knowledge of fasteners, torque methods, fits/clearances, bearing installation, sealing methods, and common industrial assembly practices.
  • Proficiency with hand tools and power tools; ability to select proper tools/fixtures and execute work safely.
  • Proficiency using measuring instruments (e.g., calipers, micrometers, dial indicators) to verify work to print.
  • Experience performing alignments/adjustments and verifying mechanical function during assembly.
  • Ability to identify and communicate nonconformances; complete quality documentation and maintain traceability.
  • Working computer skills for time entry, check sheets, and accessing electronic work instructions.
  • Demonstrated attention to detail, workmanship, and safety; ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Preferred Skills & Experience

  • Experience assembling large machines or industrial systems (e.g., material handling, power transmission, heavy equipment, process equipment).
  • Forklift, overhead crane, and rigging experience (or ability to become certified); comfortable moving and positioning heavy components safely.
  • Strong hydraulic/pneumatic assembly experience (hose/tube routing, fitting selection, torque, cleanliness/contamination control, leak troubleshooting).
  • Ability to use precision metrology tools and techniques (dial indicators, runout checks) and perform basic alignments.
  • Experience completing functional checks, assisting with run-in/testing, and documenting results.
  • Experience with rework, deviations, and implementing engineering changes (ECNs/ECRs) in a controlled environment.
  • Prior use of ERP/MES systems for labor reporting and material transactions (e.g., SAP).
  • Lean manufacturing experience (5S, standard work, kaizen) and participation in problem-solving/root cause activities.
  • Lead/mentor experience or interest in training others on safe practices and workmanship standards.

Physical Demands

  • Regularly required to stand, walk, bend, reach, and use hands to handle tools and parts.
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 50lbs with or without reasonable accommodation; heavier items moved with assistance or lifting equipment.
  • Ability to perform repetitive tasks, grasp, and apply torque/force as required for assembly work.
  • Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to read prints and measuring devices.

Work Environment

  • Manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, dust, mechanical parts, and powered industrial equipment.
  • May work near welding, painting, machining, or material handling operations.
  • Required to wear PPE as designated (e.g., safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toe footwear, gloves).

Safety & Quality Expectations

  • Follow all safety rules and stop work for unsafe conditions; report incidents, near misses, and hazards immediately.
  • Use proper lifting techniques and required equipment; follow lockout/tagout and machine-guarding requirements when applicable.
  • Build quality into every assembly; verify work against requirements and do not pass defects forward.
  • Maintain accurate documentation and traceability for assigned work.

CPM Acquisition Corp. is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. CPM Acquisition Corp. offers competitive compensation and benefits, including paid holidays and vacations, 401k, medical/dental insurance, tuition assistance, and more.

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