Entry Level Machine Shop Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Entry-Level CNC Machine Operator - Willing to Train - 1st Shift $18-21/hr - 6am-4:30pm M-Th

Job Description

This entry-level CNC Machine Operator role offers hands-on training on a variety of machines, starting with basic honing equipment and progressing to CNC grinding. You will develop your technical skills in metal finishing, machine setup, and measurement tools while working closely with experienced machinists in a small shop environment. This position is ideal for someone with strong mechanical aptitude who wants to build a long-term career in CNC machining.

Responsibilities

• Operate basic honing machines to finish metal parts according to specifications.
• Learn and perform machine setups on basic honing equipment under supervision.
• Use measurement tools to inspect parts and verify dimensional accuracy.
• Train on CNC grinding machines, gradually taking on more complex setups and operations.
• Perform CNC grinding as the primary responsibility once trained and signed off.
• Monitor machines during operation to identify issues, make adjustments, and maintain quality.
• Follow work instructions, safety procedures, and standard operating processes at all times.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including routine cleaning of machines and tools.
• Collaborate with team members and trainers to continuously improve skills and productivity.
• Support other machining operations as needed, with long-term opportunities to learn setups on additional machines.

Essential Skills

• Demonstrated aptitude for CNC machining and mechanical processes.
• Ability to learn and follow detailed instructions for machine operation and setup.
• Willingness to work primarily on CNC grinding machines after training.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing or fabrication environments.
• Ability to use or learn to use measurement tools to check part quality.
• Reliability in attendance and punctuality for a structured first-shift schedule.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality parts.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Some prior CNC or fabrication experience is preferred but not required.
• Hands-on experience with basic shop tools or equipment is a plus.
• Interest in developing a long-term career in CNC machining and metalworking.
• Comfort working in a traditional machine shop environment.

Why Work Here?

You will join a team that invests in training and gives you the chance to grow from entry-level work into skilled CNC machining. The schedule offers some flexibility within a stable first-shift structure, supporting work-life balance. You will gain valuable, in-demand technical skills in CNC grinding and machine setup that can open doors to long-term career opportunities in manufacturing.

Work Environment

This role is based in a small, older machine shop that can be somewhat dark and greasy, typical of a traditional metalworking environment. You will work on honing machines and CNC grinding equipment during a first-shift schedule, Monday through Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The setting is hands-on and shop-floor oriented, with exposure to oils, metal shavings, and production noise, so appropriate work attire suitable for a machine shop is expected.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Minneapolis, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $21.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Minneapolis,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 3, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.