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

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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 11, 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 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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Builder jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Machine Builder jobs in Portland, OR are:

Commercial Refrigeration Service Technician- Commercial &Industrial

CoolSys

Portland, OR • On-site

$40 - $65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


CoolSys rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview:

WHY COOLSYS?

At CoolSys, we offer more than just a job—we provide stability, growth, and industry-leading benefits for our employees. No wonder Newsweek named CoolSys one of America’s Greatest Workplaces! As a large company serving diverse customers, we invest in our team with:

  • Competitive Compensation: $40.00-$65.00 DOE
  • Sign on Bonus: Up to $5,000.00 DOE
  • Ongoing Education & Training: Access to state-of-the-art facilities and paid online training.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription coverage, paid vacation/holidays, and a 401(K) match.
  • Year-Round, Diverse Work: Stay engaged with consistent, interesting projects throughout the year, working across various industries and systems to keep learning and growing.
  • Extra Perks: Quarterly bonus plan, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts on vehicles, hotels, theme parks, pet insurance, and more.

Join us and advance your career while working with top-tier clients in the HVAC and refrigeration industry!

Responsibilities:

This position is responsible to assist in the repair and overhaul equipment, refrigeration, heating and ventilation equipment to ensure customer needs are met efficiently, accurately and on-time.

  • Provides service to the customer base by repairing and overhauling equipment, such as compressors, water pumps, air handlers, electrical and mechanical control devices in a safe, efficient and timely manner that exceeds customers’ expectations
  • Provides general repair work on refrigeration, heating and ventilation equipment, such as air conditioning units, evaporative condensers, ice machine equipment, water pumps, gas furnaces, compressors and electric motors in a safe and timely manner.
  • Provides preventative maintenance activities for customers by diagnosing equipment malfunction and any operating deficiency of the mechanical equipment to ensure quality work performance for the customer base.
  • Provides department support by processing job tickets, work orders to the necessary department in a timely manner.
  • Provides necessary training to new or less qualified technicians as needed.
  • Perform work on minor construction and remodeling projects including startups of new installations.
  • Drives company vehicle in a safe manner.
  • Performs other related duties and projects as assigned by management.
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma/GED.
  • EPA certification.
  • Certification from an accredited vocational-technical or trade school a plus.
  • Good driving record.
  • Knowledge of commercial refrigeration, ice machines, gas furnaces, and electrical components.
  • Working knowledge of single systems, parallel rack systems, display cases and walk-in boxes.
  • 5-7 years’ experience in commercial refrigeration, HVAC, ice machines, gas furnace and electrical required.
  • Experience working on refrigeration equipment in convenience and supermarket stores.
  • Ability to efficiently troubleshoot and repair computer controls and commercial refrigeration equipment.
  • Good mechanical aptitude skills.
  • Good communication skills and the ability to build strong relationships with customers, coworkers and management.
  • Must be able to lift up to 60 lbs. with no assistance and also be able to sit and/or stand for several hours at a time.
Join Us:

Today, there are 27 different companies that make up the CoolSys family of brandsOur valued employees are at the heart of our continued growth and success. We invite you to be part of that growth! 

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CoolSys is an EEO/AA Employer.  All qualified individuals - Including all ages, colors, disability, ethnicity, family or marital status, gender identity or expression, language, national origin, physical and mental ability, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status, and other characteristics are encouraged to apply.  

Pre-employment background screening (criminal and MVR for driving positions) and drug testing are required for all positions. CoolSys will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with federal law, state law, or local ordinance. 

Sr, senior, Service Tech, refridgeration, HVAC, refrigeration, HVAC-R, HVAC/R, diagnostic, commercial, service, install, mechanical, mechanic, apprentice, AC, field service, chiller, specialist, HVACR, supermarket, rack systems


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