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Contract Machine Shop Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

... machine shop equipment (VTL, HBM, Horizontal Lathes, Mill, and etc.), operate overhead cranes and ... This is a full-time contract opportunity. The ideal candidate will have: * 5+ years is required ...

... machine shop environment. Key Responsibilities Develop, write, modify, and troubleshoot CNC ... contract placements, to ensure the right fit for both candidates and clients. If this role isn't ...

New

Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$61K - $129K/yr

Maintain machine shop equipment for function and cleanliness. Qualifications: Required: * High ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

Maintain machine shop equipment for function and cleanliness. Qualifications: Required: * High ... and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies ...

Electro-Mechanic Technician

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$21.25 - $27/hr

Roanoke Contract Type: Permanent Remote/Hybrid/Onsite: On-site Req Id: 39632 Summary: Under the ... machine shop equipment to shape steel and other materials into precision forms. • Conduct ...

As a premier, climate-controlled contract manufacturer specializing in CNC milling, turning, EDM ... One Stop Shop: You get to set up the machine, run the part, and control the program

CNC Programmer

Newport News, VA · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Must carefully plan and prepare machine shop manufacturing operations using blueprints or written ... Will work on government contracts. * HS Degree or equivalent required. * Must be a US Citizen Eagle ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Machine Shop information

What is a contract machine shop?

A contract machine shop is a manufacturing facility that provides machining services to other companies on a contractual basis. Instead of producing their own products, these shops use specialized equipment and skilled machinists to create parts and components according to client specifications. Businesses often outsource work to contract machine shops for cost savings, access to advanced technology, and to meet production deadlines. Services can include CNC machining, milling, turning, fabrication, and assembly. This arrangement allows companies to focus on their core competencies while leveraging the expertise of the machine shop.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a contract machine shop?

Success in a Contract Machine Shop requires expertise in machining techniques, blueprint reading, and a solid understanding of materials and manufacturing processes, often proven by technical training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with CNC machines, CAD/CAM software, and quality control systems is commonly expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for this setting. These abilities ensure precision, efficiency, and the reliable delivery of high-quality components to meet client specifications.

What is the difference between Contract Machine Shop vs Machinist?

AspectContract Machine ShopMachinist
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in machining, blueprint reading, and safetyRequires similar certifications, often with additional specialized training
Work EnvironmentWorks on multiple projects for various clients, often in a shop settingWorks primarily in manufacturing or workshop environments, often on specific machines
Employer & Industry UsageServes as a contractor providing machining services to multiple industriesEmployed by manufacturing companies or as independent workers in machining roles
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for project-based work or freelance opportunitiesCompared for skill level and job roles in manufacturing

The main difference is that a Contract Machine Shop provides machining services on a contractual basis, working on various projects for different clients, while a Machinist is an individual skilled worker operating machines within a manufacturing environment. Both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, but their scope and employment structure differ.

What are some common challenges faced in a contract machine shop environment, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Working in a Contract Machine Shop often involves handling diverse projects with varying specifications and tight deadlines. New hires may find it challenging to quickly adapt to different client requirements and prioritize multiple tasks efficiently. To succeed, it's important to develop strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret technical drawings accurately. Familiarity with a range of machinery and safety protocols is also crucial. Being proactive about ongoing learning and asking experienced colleagues for guidance can help ease the transition.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Shop jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Machine Shop jobs in Virginia? For Contract Machine Shop jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Machine Shop jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Machine Shop jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Contract Machine Shop jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Contract Machine Shop job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Machine Shop job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Lead Mechanic Supervisor (Inside Machine Shop) - Steel America (Job ID: 1431)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$36.77 - $46.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Lead Mechanic Supervisor (Inside Machine Shop) - Steel America
Purpose:
Steel America, a business unit of Colonna's Shipyard is looking to obtain a Lead Mechanic Supervisor to support our shipyard operations in Norfolk, VA.
Position Summary:
Position will support management with training and assignment of semi-skilled and skilled trades personnel according to their ability, experience, and job knowledge in support and execution of production goals in ship repair/industrial fabrication operations.
The position is located onsite in Norfolk VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require occasional travel.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Analyzes work orders, blueprints, drawings, sketches, and specifications to determine machining requirements, material needs, tooling, setup approach, workholding, inspection points, and proper sequence of operations.
  • Assists shop floor personnel with machine setups, tooling selection, fixturing, troubleshooting, production steps, and dimensional verification as needed.
  • Provides hands-on leadership for manual and CNC machining operations, including turning, milling, boring, drilling, grinding, and other machine shop processes as applicable.
  • Reviews setup plans, tooling requirements, machine capability, tolerances, and inspection methods to ensure work is performed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with customer and drawing requirements.
  • Coordinates with planning, project management, quality, welding/fabrication, and other departments to support production flow, reduce bottlenecks, and meet delivery schedules.
  • Oversees all production of materials. Also instructs employees on how to fabricate, how to become more efficient and how to work more efficiently overall.
  • Identifies areas for efficiencies in shop and implements processes and procedures to ensure areas for efficiencies are carried out.
  • Recommends measures to improve production methods, equipment performance, and quality of product.
  • Inspects quality of work in progress and finished products.
  • Verifies critical dimensions using appropriate inspection tools and methods, including micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, bore gauges, height gauges, and other precision measuring equipment.
  • Supports root-cause evaluation and corrective actions for machining nonconformances, rework, scrap, dimensional issues, and process interruptions.
  • Communicates company polices and enforces company policies.
  • Ensures employees follow safe work practices.
  • Communicates with other departments, shifts and management.
  • Perform other duties as assigned
  • Work independently to complete responsibilities
  • Must have regular, reliable attendance

Additionally, position will:
  • Review project specifications/SOWs and support creation of requisitions of all needed materials in accordance with contract requirements and associated references.
  • Generate and submits production reports to management (to include condition and surveillance reports, operational briefs, executed quality checks, etc.) meeting all technical/customer reporting requirements.
  • Support management in ensuring tools/resources are mobilized and demobilized from project appropriately, providing updates on damaged or lost equipment.
  • Initiates QA/Customer call out and attends/executes TIP inspections.
  • May serve as backup/makeup to supervisor, as needed.
  • Provides input to management and project teams to support schedule, progress, ETC/EAC updates for all projects assigned to them.

Required Qualifications:
  • Understanding of machine shop operations, machining processes, tooling, workholding, setup practices, machine capabilities, and dimensional inspection requirements
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, sketches, specifications, tolerances, and machining notes
  • Working knowledge of manual and CNC machining equipment, tooling selection, feeds and speeds, setup verification, and safe machine operation
  • Familiarity with precision measuring instruments and inspection practices used to verify machined components
  • Ability to troubleshoot machining issues related to setup, tooling, workholding, material condition, machine performance, and dimensional accuracy
  • Strong staff management, analytical, and people skills
  • Excellent attention to detail and the ability to problem solve
  • Knowledge of craft skills and requirements
  • Ability to manage in a multi-task environment
  • Able to communicate clearly and effectively with governmental/commercial personnel, employees, and management
  • Attention to detail and documentation
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong mathematical skills and ability.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Technical training preferred.
  • Prefer DBIDS Eligibility.
  • Prefer supervisory experience in Commercial and Government Ship Repair.

Travel Requirements:
  • Minimal Travel; 10% or less.

* The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all inclusive. They represent typical elements of criteria necessary to successfully perform the job. Steel America, a business unit of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc is an at will employer.
Reasonable Accommodations Statement:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must perform the essential job duties satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a direct threat to the safety or health of employee or others. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work Environment:
• Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when necessary
• Able to climb stairs, scaffolds, and ladders
• Walk to, from and between assigned work areas throughout scheduled shift
• Exposure to extreme weather, noise, fumes, dust, and smoke
• Work overtime as needed to meet production demands
Respect, Pride, Truth, Family - These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonna's Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Additionally, Colonna's Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid disability insurances, 401k with match, legal services, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).
Pay Range: $36.77 - $46.50
Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate's relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees' best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO).