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Contract Machine Shop Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Contract-to-Hire Pay Range: $20.00 - $22.00/hour Key Responsibilities * Operate a manual lathe to ... Manufacturing and machine shop environment. * Variety of hands-on work including mechanical ...

Operations Planner and Buyer

Hodgkins, IL · On-site

$55K - $76K/yr

... contract manufacturer specializing in Swiss machining and centerless grinding. With AS9100D ... Plan and schedule production orders based on customer demands using Global Shop Solutions (ERP) ...

New

... shop or manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for planning, scheduling, and ... Experience in a contract manufacturing environment * Understanding of machining processes, bill of ...

... shop or manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for planning, scheduling, and ... Experience in a contract manufacturing environment * Understanding of machining processes, bill of ...

... shop or manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for planning, scheduling, and ... Experience in a contract manufacturing environment Understanding of machining processes, bill of ...

... shop or manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for planning, scheduling, and ... Experience in a contract manufacturing environment Understanding of machining processes, bill of ...

Shipping / Receiving Operator

Hodgkins, IL · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Pioneer Service, established in 1990, is an ITAR-registered precision contract manufacturer ... On-the-job-training or previous machine shop experience.Excellent organizational skills and ...

Contract-to-hire * Pay Range: $25.00 - $30.00/hour Key Responsibilities * Maintain, repair, and ... Frequent use of machine shop and tool room equipment. * Hands-on role requiring precision ...

Designer

Lake Barrington, IL · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

Practical experience with sheet metal fabrication, such as work in a weld shop or machine shop ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lake Barrington, IL. Pay and ...

Cnc Machinist

Alsip, IL · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Strong mechanical aptitude and shop math skills, including geometry and trigonometry. * Experience ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Alsip, IL. Pay and Benefits ...

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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 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 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.

Is a contract machine shop job a good career?

A contract machine shop job can be a stable career for those skilled in machining, CAD/CAM software, and precision manufacturing. It often offers opportunities for overtime, skill development, and certifications such as CNC operator or machinist licenses. Job stability depends on industry demand and individual skill level, but it can provide steady employment in manufacturing sectors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Shop jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Machine Shop jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Contract Machine Shop jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Contract Machine Shop jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Contract Machine Shop job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Machine Shop job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Manual Machinist

Broadview, IL

Summit Staffing
51 - 200 employees

$20 - $22/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Manual Machinist / Shop Technician

Overview Summary
Summit Staffing is seeking a hands-on Manual Machinist / Shop Technician to join a growing manufacturing team in Maywood, IL. This position is ideal for mechanically inclined individuals who enjoy working with tools, repairing equipment, building components, and supporting production in a shop environment.
This role includes a variety of shop responsibilities including light machining, assembly, tooling support, and general fabrication. A portion of the day will involve operating a manual lathe, but prior lathe experience is not required. Candidates with a strong mechanical aptitude can be trained on the equipment within the first few days.
If you have experience in manufacturing, maintenance, mechanical assembly, fabrication, automotive repair, welding, machine operation, or working with hand and power tools, we'd like to hear from you.

Job Details
Location: Maywood, Illinois
Type: Contract-to-Hire
Pay Range: $20.00 - $22.00/hour

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate a manual lathe to machine and modify parts (training provided).
  • Assist with building, repairing, and maintaining production tooling and components.
  • Perform mechanical assembly and disassembly of tooling and shop equipment.
  • Operate common shop equipment including grinders, drills, saws, and other manual tools.
  • Perform basic machining and fabrication tasks to support production.
  • Measure completed parts using tape measures, calipers, gauges, and other basic measuring tools.
  • Help maintain tooling used throughout the manufacturing process.
  • Keep work areas clean, organized, and safe.
  • Work closely with production and management to support daily manufacturing needs.
  • Follow all quality and safety procedures while producing dependable work.
Skills & Experience
  • Previous experience in manufacturing, production, assembly, maintenance, fabrication, machine operation, automotive repair, welding, or a related hands-on field.
  • Comfortable working with hand and power tools.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn new equipment.
  • Ability to accurately measure parts using basic measuring tools.
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
  • Dependable with a positive attitude and strong work ethic.
  • Able to lift, stand, bend, and work in a manufacturing environment throughout the shift.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience operating manual shop equipment such as lathes, grinders, drill presses, or saws.
  • Mechanical assembly or maintenance experience.
  • Welding or fabrication experience is a plus.
  • Experience working in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
  • Forklift experience is helpful but not required.
Work Environment
  • First Shift
  • Manufacturing and machine shop environment.
  • Variety of hands-on work including mechanical assembly, light machining, tooling support, and shop maintenance.
  • Manual lathe operation will make up only a portion of the daily responsibilities.
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and use of hand and power tools.
  • Required use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, steel-toed footwear, and other required safety equipment.
Why Join Summit Staffing?

At Summit Staffing, we connect hardworking individuals with leading employers across logistics, manufacturing, and distribution. This position offers a long-term opportunity to develop new machining skills while working in a hands-on manufacturing environment where every day brings something different. If you're mechanically inclined and enjoy building, repairing, and working with tools, this is an excellent opportunity to grow your career.
Benefits

Eligible Summit employees may receive access to:
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with pre-tax and Roth contributions
  • Accident and critical illness coverage
  • Paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay
About Summit Staffing
Summit Staffing has been a trusted partner to job seekers and employers throughout the Midwest since 1986. We specialize in light industrial, warehouse, and manufacturing staffing, matching talented individuals with opportunities that fit their goals and experience. Our success is built on personal relationships, integrity, and a commitment to helping people succeed because when our associates thrive, our clients do too.
Summit Staffing is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.