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Machine Shop Apprentice Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Tool & Die Maker

Minonk, IL

$24.16 - $36.24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Plan setup and operate machine shop tools based on materials, tolerances, and machining ... a formal apprenticeship or equivalent in-tool & die training Journey level machinists with ...

Cmm Programmer

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... of an apprenticeship in a relevant field. * 2-3+ years of experience working as a quality ... Experience working in a machine shop environment with close collaboration between machining and ...

Tool & Die Maker

Minonk, IL · On-site

$24.16 - $36.24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Plan setup and operate machine shop tools based on materials, tolerances, and machining ... a formal apprenticeship or equivalent in-tool & die training Journey level machinists with ...

Tool & Die Maker

Minonk, IL

$24.16 - $36.24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Plan setup and operate machine shop tools based on materials, tolerances, and machining ... a formal apprenticeship or equivalent in-tool & die training Journey level machinists with ...

What You'll Do * Assist in machining, fitting, assembling, and repairing dies and molds for ... Read and interpret blueprints and specifications using shop math * Maintain accurate documentation ...

Mold Maker Apprentice

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

What You'll Do * Assist in machining, fitting, assembling, and repairing dies and molds for ... Read and interpret blueprints and specifications using shop math * Maintain accurate documentation ...

Apprentice Manufacturing Engineer

Alsip, IL · On-site

$22 - $31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Apprenticeship. We encourage Industrial and Mechanical Engineers and recent graduates looking to ... shop environment - continuous exposure to potentially hazardous metal working machinery and ...

Tool and Die Machinist

Rockford, IL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... other machine shop tools. * The ability to read and use micrometers, measuring tools, gauges ... Apprenticeship or journeyman certification in tool and die or machining * Experience in a high ...

Tool and Die Machinist

Rockford, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... other machine shop tools. * The ability to read and use micrometers, measuring tools, gauges ... Apprenticeship or journeyman certification in tool and die or machining * Experience in a high ...

Pipefitter/Welder

La Grange Park, IL

$25 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Proficiently use standard machine shop equipment such as lathe, milling machine, drill press, band ... Technical school, 4 yr. apprenticeship and/or equivalent experience. * 2+ years' experience as a ...

Pipefitter/Welder

La Grange Park, IL · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Proficiently use standard machine shop equipment such as lathe, milling machine, drill press, band ... Technical school, 4 yr. apprenticeship and/or equivalent experience. * 2+ years' experience as a ...

Pipefitter/Welder

La Grange Park, IL · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Technical school, 4 yr. apprenticeship and/or equivalent experience. * 2+ years' experience as a ... Technical proficiency on standard machine shop equipment such as lathe, milling machine, drill ...

Showing results 41-60

Machine Shop Apprentice information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$19

$28

How much do machine shop apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop apprentice in Illinois is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $21.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a machine shop apprentice do?

A Machine Shop Apprentice learns the basics of operating machinery and tools in a manufacturing or machining environment. They work under the supervision of experienced machinists to gain hands-on experience in tasks such as measuring, cutting, shaping, and assembling metal parts. Apprentices are also trained in safety procedures, blueprint reading, and the use of various machines like lathes, mills, and grinders. Over time, they develop the technical skills needed to become a fully qualified machinist.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine shop apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Shop Apprentice, you need a strong understanding of basic machining principles, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manual and CNC machines, measurement tools like calipers and micrometers, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and good communication skills help apprentices excel in collaborative and precision-focused environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safety, product quality, and effective learning and contribution in a machine shop setting.

What are some common challenges faced by a machine shop apprentice during their first year?

As a Machine Shop Apprentice, one of the main challenges you may encounter in your first year is adapting to the precision and attention to detail required when operating machinery and reading technical blueprints. You'll also need to quickly learn safety protocols and proper tool handling to prevent accidents. Working as part of a skilled team, you'll be expected to communicate effectively and ask questions when unsure, which is vital for both learning and maintaining workflow efficiency. Overcoming the initial learning curve with new equipment and terminology is common, but mentorship from experienced machinists can help you progress steadily.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Shop jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Machine Shop Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Machine Shop Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Shop Apprentice job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,652 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

$24.16 - $36.24/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description


Tool & Die Maker Build Your Future with SMF!Why Choose SMF?

At SMF, we don’t just offer jobs—we build careers. As part of Etnyre International, we bring a 50-year legacy of excellence in high-quality metal fabrication, supporting industries such as construction, power generation, agriculture, and mining.

As a Tier One supplier to Fortune 500 OEMs, we hold ourselves to the highest standards—delivering precision, quality, and meaningful work. With over 200,000 square feet of advanced manufacturing space, SMF ranks among the top ½ percent of machine shops nationwide.

Since joining Etnyre International in 2020, our growth has accelerated—and we’re looking for skilled professionals to grow with us!


Position Overview

As a Tool & Die Maker, you will build, repair, and maintain jigs, fixtures, tools, and dies of various sizes and complexities. You will assemble and test tooling on manufacturing equipment, ensuring precision and quality that meet exact specifications.


Essential Responsibilities
  • Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, and written or verbal instructions
  • Plan setup and operate machine shop tools based on materials, tolerances, and machining requirements
  • Perform heat treating and welding as needed
  • Inspect work using precision measuring and gauging tools before, during, and after machining
  • Perform hand operations to produce jigs, fixtures, tools, and dies using trade tools
  • Assemble, test, and troubleshoot tooling to ensure proper function and product quality

Additional Responsibilities
  • Assist machinists and millwrights with punch press overhauls
  • Collaborate with product designers and provide input on manufacturability of new products
What We’re Looking For

Completion of a formal apprenticeship or equivalent in-tool & die training
Journey level machinists with additional tool & die training are encouraged to apply
Ability to read blueprints and perform precision work with a high degree of accuracy
Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety
Experience in manufacturing or metal fabrication preferred
Ability to use hand and power tools
Ability to lift 50+ lbs and stand for extended periods


What We Offer – Total Rewards Package

Annual Bonus for ALL team members
Annual Wage Increases to reward your dedication
Competitive Pay based on experience
$2.50/hour shift premium for 2nd shift
11 Paid Holidays + 3 Additional Paid Holiday Break Days
Generous Paid Time Off (Vacation & Flex Time)

Excellent Benefits Package:
  • Low-cost Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Company-paid Life Insurance & Disability Coverage
  • 401(k) with Employer Match & Profit Sharing
  • Optional Accident, Hospital & Critical Illness Coverage

Why Join SMF?

Work for a company ranked in the top ½ percent of machine shops nationwide
Be part of a growing, innovation-driven manufacturing team
Contribute to high-quality products for Fortune 500 OEMs
Build a long-term, rewarding career with advancement opportunities


Apply Today!

If you are detail-oriented, skilled, and ready to take the next step in your career, SMF wants you on our team.

Apply now and start building your future with SMF!