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Machine Builder Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

About the Role You will build the machine itself. Persona AI's humanoids weld, grind, and inspect in shipyards and heavy fabrication shops - the jobs that wear out human bodies, in confined spaces ...

Machine Operator - Weaving

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Build pallets for GAW products (BLK rolls) * Replenish material (Wood, hog rings, strap & clips) * Clean the take-up area and packaging area * Change & weld wire for weaving machines * Turn back to ...

Machine Operator - Weaving

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Build pallets for GAW products (BLK rolls) * Replenish material (Wood, hog rings, strap & clips) * Clean the take-up area and packaging area * Change & weld wire for weaving machines * Turn back to ...

Machine Operator - Weaving

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Build pallets for GAW products (BLK rolls) * Replenish material (Wood, hog rings, strap & clips) * Clean the take-up area and packaging area * Change & weld wire for weaving machines * Turn back to ...

Machine Operator - Weaving

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Build pallets for GAW products (BLK rolls) * Replenish material (Wood, hog rings, strap & clips) * Clean the take-up area and packaging area * Change & weld wire for weaving machines * Turn back to ...

Machine Operator

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

MACHINIST JOB AD Tired of working for a company where you're just another number? Do you want to be part of a team that values your skills, encourages your growth, and gives you the tools to succeed?

Crate Builder

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Bolt heavy machinery or sensitive parts to skids and wrap products with foam, plastic, or moisture barriers. * Quality Assurance: Inspect finished containers for durability and accuracy before ...

Scaffold Builder 2

Deer Park, TX ยท On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

... tooling and machining, technical bolting, heat treating, hot-tapping, line stopping and NDT ... The Scaffold Builder 2 plays a critical role in the construction and maintenance of safe and ...

New

Machine Operator

Missouri City, TX ยท On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Do you want to work for a growing family-owned business that strives to build a better future ... The Machine Operator is responsible for proper set up, operation, and cleaning/sanitizing ...

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Machine Builder information

See Houston, TX salary details

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How much do machine builder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine builder in Houston, TX is $21.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $24.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a machine builder do?

A Machine Builder is responsible for assembling, installing, and maintaining machinery or mechanical equipment according to engineering specifications. They read blueprints or technical drawings, gather the necessary components, and use hand tools, power tools, and precision instruments to construct machines. Machine Builders may work in manufacturing, automation, or specialized industries, collaborating with engineers and other technicians to ensure machines operate efficiently and safely. Their work often involves troubleshooting, adjusting, and testing machines to meet performance standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine builder?

To thrive as a Machine Builder, you need strong mechanical aptitude, precision in assembly, and a background in engineering or technical training, often supported by a relevant vocational diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with CAD software, hand and power tools, and the ability to read blueprints and technical diagrams are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safe, efficient, and accurate construction of machines according to specifications.

What are some common challenges a machine builder might face during the assembly process, and how can they be overcome?

Machine Builders often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex technical drawings, managing tight project deadlines, and troubleshooting unexpected mechanical issues during assembly. To overcome these, it's important to develop strong problem-solving skills, maintain clear communication with engineers and team members, and stay organized throughout the build process. Utilizing checklists, regularly reviewing schematics, and participating in ongoing training can also help Machine Builders navigate and resolve these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Machine Builder vs Mechanical Assembler?

AspectMachine BuilderMechanical Assembler
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certifications in machineryHigh school diploma; on-the-job training often provided
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, workshops, construction sitesAssembly lines, manufacturing facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesDesign, assemble, troubleshoot complex machinery and systemsAssemble components, follow diagrams, perform basic mechanical tasks
Industry UsageHeavy machinery, automation, manufacturingConsumer products, small machinery, general manufacturing

The main difference between a Machine Builder and a Mechanical Assembler is the scope of work. Machine Builders typically handle complex machinery design, assembly, and troubleshooting, requiring more technical skills and certifications. Mechanical Assemblers focus on assembling parts and components, often following detailed instructions. Both roles are essential in manufacturing but differ in complexity and responsibilities.

How do you become a machine builder?

To become a machine builder, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an apprenticeship in mechanical or electrical work. Skills in blueprint reading, welding, and familiarity with tools and machinery are important, and some positions may require certifications or experience with specific equipment. On-the-job training is common in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Machine Builder jobs in Houston, TX?

For Machine Builder jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Machine Builder jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Machine Builder job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Builder job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,309 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Structural Robotics Assembler

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Structural Robotics Assembler
Department: Manufacturing - Robot Build
Employment Type: Full Time
FLSA: Non-Exempt (hourly; overtime paid at 1.5x)
Location: Houston, TX - Onsite
Who We Are
Persona AI is developing and commercializing rugged, multi-purpose humanoid robots that perform real work. Persona AI founding team has a decades-long history in humanoid robotics, bionics, and product development delivering robust hardware that has touched the stars, worked miles below the surface of the ocean, and even roamed Disney Parks. Our mission is focused squarely on shipping beautiful, reliable products at massive scale, while building a customer-focused team to achieve these aims.
Why Join Persona AI
  • We offer competitive compensation, a performance-based bonus, 99% employer covered medical benefits, early-stage equity, competitive PTO, and a company-wide paid winter break between December 24th and January 2nd.
  • You'll shape technology that's redefining the possibilities of robotics and human interaction.
  • Work alongside passionate teammates who value creativity, and continuous learning.

About the Role
You will build the machine itself. Persona AI's humanoids weld, grind, and inspect in shipyards and heavy fabrication shops - the jobs that wear out human bodies, in confined spaces and in the heat.
This is the structural line: torsos, limbs, and the major joints that carry load. A hip joint you build will carry the full weight of the machine through millions of cycles, in a shipyard, in the heat, with a welding torch at the end of the arm. Every one gets built by hand, here in Houston.
The parts are large, expensive, and machined to tight tolerances. You'll work with calibrated torque wrenches and multipliers, presses, induction bearing heaters, and overhead cranes. This is heavy work held to precision standards, which is a combination most shops don't ask for.
Motors and encoders arrive as sealed modules that you install mechanically and never open; harness building and electrical test belong to our electrical integration team.
If you have been a millwright, an industrial mechanic, a machine builder, a shipfitter, or an aerospace structures assembler, this is your trade pointed at something new. We are not here to replace the trades. We are building machines that take on the worst jobs in heavy industry, directed by the crews who know that work best.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Assemble torso, chassis, and limb structures from engineering drawings and work instructions.
  • Build actuator and joint modules, including strain-wave (harmonic) and planetary gear sets and ball and roller screw linear actuators, keeping serialized matched sets together.
  • Install bearings, bushings, gears, seals, and press-fit parts without damage - including alignment, shimming, preload setting, and press or thermal methods for interference fits.
  • Torque structural fasteners to specification with calibrated wrenches and torque multipliers; apply thread locker and witness-mark (torque stripe) per procedure.
  • Verify each joint against acceptance criteria - backlash, no-load running torque, runout, and alignment - using micrometers, bore gauges, and dial indicators.
  • Rig, hoist, and position major assemblies safely using lift assists and overhead cranes.
  • Mate pre-terminated connectors and route and secure cable during housing closeout.
  • Record build data accurately - serial numbers, matched sets, torque values, and measurements - in our shop floor build records.
  • Flag parts, drawings, or steps that don't work as written. We would rather stop the line than ship a bad joint.

What We're Looking For
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Hands-on mechanical experience from any industry - assembly, machine build, millwright or industrial mechanic work, heavy equipment maintenance, shipfitting, machining, or military maintenance training.
  • Real skill with hand tools, including torque wrenches, drivers, pullers, and presses.
  • Ability to read mechanical drawings and assembly work instructions.
  • Comfort with precision measuring tools, or the interest to learn them. We will train you on anything you haven't used.
  • Pride in workmanship - you notice when something is a half-turn off.
  • Willingness to follow a documented process exactly, and to speak up when the process is wrong.
  • Availability for overtime and occasional weekend work during production pushes, paid at 1.5x.

Bonus Skills
  • Millwright, industrial machinery mechanic, or machine builder background.
  • Tolerance-critical assembly in aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, medical device, or semiconductor equipment.
  • Experience with actuators, gearboxes, harmonic or planetary gearing, servo motors, or ball and roller screws.
  • Bearing installation using induction heaters, presses, or shim and preload methods.
  • Overhead crane, hoist, forklift, or rigging certification.
  • Military maintenance training - machinist's mate, hull technician, mechanic MOS, or Air Force maintenance.
  • Three or more years of hands-on mechanical assembly, machine build, or industrial maintenance, which may qualify you at the Assembler II level.

Physical Requirements
  • Handling components and assemblies weighing up to 50 lbs, occasionally throughout a shift. Hoists, lift assists, and team lifts are available and expected for heavier assemblies.
  • Working at assembly stations across the production floor for the duration of a shift, with sustained use of hand tools.
  • Accessing assembly points at varying heights and orientations, involving frequent bending, reaching, and kneeling.
  • Wearing required PPE. These functions can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation; alternative signaling for audible alarms can be provided.

Persona AI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.