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Apprentice Machine Builder Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Sigma Design

Tool & Die Machinist I

Beaverton, OR · On-site

This company is one of the largest machine shops on the west coast. They have a long history of ... Interpret blueprints, sketches, and work instructions to build or modify dies, fixtures, gauges ...

Sigma Design

Tool & Die Machinist I

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$66K - $74K/yr

This company is one of the largest machine shops on the west coast. They have a long history of ... Interpret blueprints, sketches, and work instructions to build or modify dies, fixtures, gauges ...

StenTech, Inc

JUNIOR CAM PROGRAMMER I

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

CNC setup experience * Apprenticeship in machining * Equivalent combination of education and ... want to build a long-term career in manufacturing. As you grow in this role, you'll have ...

Leupold and Stevens

Be Seen First

Tool Maker 1

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$32 - $36/hr

... lathe, milling machine and grinder) in order to design and build simple tooling. * Works from ... Trains new employees or apprentices. Skills and Experiences You'll Need as a Tool Maker 1: * High ...

Signing bonus

Leupold + Stevens, Inc.

Tool Maker 1

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$32 - $36/hr

... lathe, milling machine and grinder) in order to design and build simple tooling. * Works from ... Trains new employees or apprentices. Skills and Experiences You'll Need as a Tool & Die Maker 1: * ...

Leupold + Stevens, Inc.

Tool Maker 1

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$32 - $36/hr

... lathe, milling machine and grinder) in order to design and build simple tooling. * Works from ... Trains new employees or apprentices. Skills and Experiences You'll Need as a Tool & Die Maker 1: * ...

Leupold + Stevens, Inc.

Tool Maker 1

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$32 - $36/hr

... lathe, milling machine and grinder) in order to design and build simple tooling. * Works from ... Trains new employees or apprentices. Skills and Experiences You'll Need as a Tool & Die Maker 1: * ...

Leupold and Stevens

Be Seen First

Tool and Die Maker 3

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... milling machine and grinder) in order to design and build both simple and more complex tooling ... Trains and mentors new employees or apprentices. * Performs back up lead duties as assigned. Skills ...

Signing bonus

Leupold + Stevens, Inc.

Tool & Die Maker 3

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... milling machine and grinder) in order to design and build both simple and more complex tooling ... Trains and mentors new employees or apprentices. * Performs back up lead duties as assigned. Skills ...

Leupold and Stevens

Be Seen First

Tool and Die Maker 3

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... milling machine and grinder) in order to design and build both simple and more complex tooling ... Trains and mentors new employees or apprentices. * Performs back up lead duties as assigned. Skills ...

Signing bonus

Leupold + Stevens, Inc.

Tool & Die Maker 3

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... milling machine and grinder) in order to design and build both simple and more complex tooling ... Trains and mentors new employees or apprentices. * Performs back up lead duties as assigned. Skills ...

Leupold + Stevens, Inc.

Tool & Die Maker 3

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

... milling machine and grinder) in order to design and build both simple and more complex tooling ... Trains and mentors new employees or apprentices. * Performs back up lead duties as assigned. Skills ...

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All JobsApprentice Machine Builder JobsApprentice Machine Builder Jobs in Portland, OR

Apprentice Machine Builder information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do apprentice machine builder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice machine builder in Portland, OR is $21.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $23.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an apprentice machine builder do?

An Apprentice Machine Builder assists experienced technicians and engineers in assembling, installing, and maintaining machinery and mechanical equipment. Their duties often include reading blueprints, using hand and power tools, and learning to troubleshoot mechanical issues. Apprentices typically work under supervision while gaining hands-on experience and technical knowledge needed for advancement in the field. Over time, they develop skills in fabrication, welding, and precision measurement as they prepare for a full machine builder role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice machine builder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Machine Builder, you need a solid understanding of mechanical principles, basic machining, and blueprint reading, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with hand and power tools, CNC machinery, and safety protocols is typically required, as is a willingness to learn industry-specific systems. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for building precise, reliable machines and ensuring safe, efficient workflows in manufacturing environments.

What can an apprentice machine builder expect in terms of hands-on training and mentorship during the apprenticeship?

As an Apprentice Machine Builder, you can expect a significant amount of hands-on training under the guidance of experienced machine builders and engineers. Typically, you will work closely with a mentor who will demonstrate proper assembly techniques, help you interpret technical blueprints, and guide you through troubleshooting mechanical issues. The apprenticeship often involves rotating through different workstations to gain exposure to various machinery and tools, fostering a well-rounded skill set. Regular feedback and progress assessments are common, ensuring you steadily build competence and confidence in the role.

What is the difference between Apprentice Machine Builder vs Machine Assembler?

AspectApprentice Machine BuilderMachine Assembler
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; on-the-job training; some technical coursesHigh school diploma; basic technical skills often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants; training under supervisionAssembly lines; factory settings
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing companies; machinery constructionElectronics and machinery manufacturing

Apprentice Machine Builders are in training to develop skills in constructing and maintaining complex machinery, often working closely with experienced builders. Machine Assemblers focus on putting together components on assembly lines. While both roles involve working with machinery, Apprentice Machine Builders typically require more technical training and work in a learning capacity, whereas Machine Assemblers perform more routine assembly tasks.

Apprentice Machine Builder jobs near you

High Voltage Substation Operator Apprentice I

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

Hillsboro, OR

$49.24/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

U.S. Department Of Energy rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

149th of 853 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

The Apprenticeship program is a formal training program consisting of 7 steps for Substation Operator (3 1/2 years). The apprentice must pass an end-of-step review following each 6-month step to remain in the program. Apprentices will be promoted to journeymen after successfully passing the final step review.Qualifications:Applicants must meet the requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Job Qualification System for Trades and Labor Occupations (X-118C). Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on the quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the job elements and screen out listed below. Your resume should demonstrate that you possess these elements and screen out. Do not provide a separate narrative written statement. Rather, you must describe in your resume how your past work experience demonstrates that you possess the elements and screen out identified below. This job has a screen-out factor which will be used to determine minimum eligibility for this job. Applicants who do not receive a minimum of two points on this screen-out element(s) or who do not score at least half of the total points possible across all elements will be found ineligible.
The screen-out element for this position is: APTITUDE AND INTEREST TO LEARN TRADE THEORY. Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
In addition to meeting the minimum qualifications for this position, you must pass an online aptitude examination demonstrating your potential for learning and advancing in an Apprentice position. Failure to pass the examination will result in an ineligible rating.
Apprenticeship positions require that you sign a "Continuation of Service Agreement". If you voluntarily leave BPA/DOE, while completing or after completing the training program and / or prior to completing your service commitment you may be liable to BPA for the value of any service days not completed within 30 days of separation. The agreement will obligate you to remain with BPA for a period of one year upon completion of apprenticeship training.


WORKING CONDITIONS:

Working conditions for Substation Operator Apprentice are performed both indoors and outdoors under all prevailing weather conditions during the day or night. Work is also performed on uneven, outdoor surfaces, including steep inclines, on rocked or graveled surfaces and unimproved surfaces. Hazards include working around high voltage equipment and machinery with moving parts. The possibility of explosion or fire is ever-present. The Substation Operator Apprentice may work from ladders, platforms, scaffolding, or stairs. The work environment will occasionally include high noise levels and/or exposure to hazardous substances (such as acids, PCB's, pesticides, asbestos, mercury, solvents, etc.) that could, if precautions are not followed, pose a health risk. Proper respiratory and safety equipment shall be worn when hazardous substances are being handled. Emergencies, critical system conditions, or outage limitations may require that work be done at night and/or under time restraints. System priorities may require extended periods of overtime, including working weekends.

"Experience" refers to paid and unpaid experience. Examples of qualifying unpaid experience may include: volunteer work done through National Service programs (such as Peace Corps and AmeriCorps); as well as work for other community-based philanthropic and social organizations. Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills; and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
CTAP/ICTAP candidates: To be considered "well qualified" you must meet all of the requirements as described in this section.
You must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Education:There are no specific education requirements or substitution of education for experience for this position.Employment Type: OTHER

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