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Contract Machine Shop Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Machine Shop Helper

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$22/hr

Experience in machine operation and machine shop environments. * Understanding of blueprint reading ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wilsonville, OR. Pay and ...

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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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Contract Machine Shop jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Machine Shop jobs? Cities with the most Contract Machine Shop job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Shop jobs? The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Machine Shop jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Machine Shop jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Machine Shop jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Machine Shop jobs are:
Contract Machine Shop jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Machine Shop job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 80% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution.

Prototype CNC Mill Machinist - 1st Shift

Challenge Machine and Manufacturing an Assurance Manufacturing Company

Blaine, MN • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Challenge Machine and Manufacturing, a part of Assurance Manufacturing, is 100% employee owned. We are currently seeking a Prototype CNC Mill Machinist (Set Up) for our 1st shift.
Challenge Machine is a small contract machine shop that serves the Semiconductor, Medical and Aerospace industries. We machine a variety of smaller components made from exotic plastics and both ferrous and non-ferrous materials.
The Prototype CNC Mill Machinist (Set Up) is responsible for machining of parts to meet customer specification and maintain a high level of quality.
Prototype CNC Mill Machinist Responsibilities:
  • Set up and run CNC mill to machine parts to customer supplied print/specifications.
  • Follows Gibbs CAM program for machining operations and tooling requirements.
  • Make adjustments to program and machine as necessary in order to meet print.
  • Inspect parts for conformance to specifications.
  • Conducting physical first article inspection at machining station.
  • Follows ISO and 6S procedures.
  • Communicate shop needs to management.
  • Keeping necessary records.
  • Maintaining equipment and supplies.
  • May run more than one machine simultaneously.
  • Maintains clear and honest communication at all times.
  • Learns and applies the latest relevant knowledge to the work.
  • Follows work order procedures and routings.
  • Maintains, organizes, and cleans equipment and the work area.
  • Notifies supervisor when faulty equipment or defective materials are discovered. Follows Control of Nonconforming Product Procedure.
  • Follows procedures in relation to inspection of parts.
  • Crosstrain in other areas of the plant as necessary to meet production demands.
  • Adhere to all safety rules and guidelines.
  • Keep the work environment safe and tidy.

Prototype CNC Mill Machinist Qualifications:
  • High School diploma or equivalent education required. Certificate in machine shop technology or machine tool technology/machinist preferred.
  • Minimum of 2 years manufacturing experience.
  • Minimum of 1 year of general machine operating experience.
  • Knowledge of operations including drilling, boring and milling etc. employing recognized tooling and procedures and where tolerances are close, but not difficult to maintain is required.
  • Ability to work from programming instructions, operational data and machine setup instructions defining and coding tool arrangements, material clamping methods, machine calibrations and console settings, for operations such as bore, mill, drill, face, thread and occasional profiling contouring.
  • Strong analytical, communication, and computer skills.
  • Attention to detail and self motivated.
  • Good teamwork skills.
  • Good organizational, interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Strong and positive work ethic.
  • Time management skills.
  • Ability to multitask.
  • Basic understanding of technical plans, drawings, models and blueprints.
  • Basic understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Excellent ability to read and listen to assignments given in a variety of forms.
  • Basic understanding of mathematics.
  • Ability to measure parts with calipers and micrometers.

We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefit package that includes medical/HSA, dental, vision, STD, LTD, basic life, voluntary life, vacation, 401k with company match, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and discretionary bonuses.
Equal Opportunity Employer - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
Challenge Machine & Manufacturing 1651 99th Lane NE, Blaine, MN 55449
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