John Deere Dubuque - Machine Maintenance Apprentice

Job Overview

 At John Deere, we run so life can leap forward. This powerful purpose is our promise to humankind that we will dream, design, and deliver breakthrough products that sustain our world for generations to come. The world is counting on us to feed billions of people and build vital infrastructures in villages, towns and megacities. And we live up to the legacy our founder forged in a one-room blacksmith's shop nearly two centuries ago by creating a culture that brings out the best in all of us. A culture where great ideas thrive because every voice is heard.

Primary Location: United States (US) - Iowa  - Dubuque   

As a Machine Maintenance Apprentice with John Deere Dubuque Works, you will:

Under the guidance and supervision of experienced Industrial Maintenance Technicians, the Machine Maintenance Apprentice assists with diagnosing machine issues, performing preventive maintenance, repairing mechanical equipment, and supporting machine rebuilds.

The apprentice progressively develops skills in machine alignment, fitting, inspection, and repair while working toward journey-level proficiency.

With training and supervision, the apprentice will learn to safely use standard maintenance tools, precision measuring instruments, machines, machine tools and equipment such as grinders, lathes, planers, shapers, drill presses, block and tackle, hoists, cranes, jacks, rollers

Job Details are dependent on duties assigned and training progression, but generally include:

• Assist with analyzing machine failures and identifying maintenance needs
• Learn to dismantle, adjust, and repair machines, machine tools, and mechanical equipment
• Support rebuilding and overhauling equipment
• Assist with inspections and helps document equipment condition and maintenance findings
• Learn to plan work sequences and gather required tools, materials, and equipment
• Work from prints, manufacturer instructions, sketches, and verbal guidance
• Assist with producing or fitting replacement parts, learning close‑tolerances
• Learn proper techniques for aligning gears, shafts, pulleys, motors, and related components
• Assist with checking equipment in operation and making basic adjustments
• Perform routine equipment care including oiling, greasing, lubrication, and cleaning
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment

Training & Development

• Structured on-the-job training with progressive exposure to advanced maintenance, rebuild, and alignment work

• Apprenticeship completion at a minimum of 8,000 hours, with progressive wage increases dependent on performance and demonstrated ability
• Opportunity to advance toward Journeyman Industrial Maintenance status upon successful completion of apprenticeship requirements

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must have at least one of the following:
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D.
  • National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)
  • At least 3 years of manufacturing work experience
• Enrollment in or willingness to pursue an AAS degree in Industrial Maintenance or a related mechanical trade program.
• Ability to perform manual tasks related to described job duties for duration of work shift; including but not limited to frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and performing of repetitive actions.
• Ability and willingness to work any shift and potential overtime (including weekends).

What Makes You Stand Out (Preferred Qualifications):

• At least 2 years of prior industrial maintenance work experience (or equivalent certification / training)

Why Work at John Deere? Why Work anywhere else? 

If you strive to do great work, excel in creative environments, thrive in teams, and live for problem solving – this is the place for you. 

At John Deere, your ideas, experiences, and values matter. 

Please see below for a summary of the value of your John Deere career and total rewards available to you to support you and your well-being.  

• Highly competitive base pay and performance bonuses 
• Savings & Retirement benefits 
• Wellbeing – Physical and Mental Healthcare 
• Paid Holidays & Competitive Vacation Packages 
• Employee Assistance Programs 
• Tuition Assistance 
• Fitness subsidies and on-site gyms at specific Deere locations 
• Charitable contribution match 
• Rebate Program & numerous discount programs for personal use 

John Deere 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, disability, or status as a protected veteran.