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Machine Shop Apprentice Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Truck Hero

Maintenance Technician 2

Lincoln, RI · On-site

... shop supplies. * Mentor maintenance technician I employees on equipment and advanced manufacturing systems. * Rebuild machines, tools and heavy equipment & create special tools to assist with ...

RealTruck

Maintenance Technician 2

Lincoln, RI · On-site

... shop supplies. * Mentor maintenance technician I employees on equipment and advanced manufacturing systems. * Rebuild machines, tools and heavy equipment & create special tools to assist with ...

The Pete Store

Diesel Service Technician

Johnston, RI · On-site

$27.75 - $37.25/hr

Supervises work of any apprentice technicians as assigned. * Reports machinery defects or ... Keeps shop area neat and clean. * Maintains and is accountable for all dealership-owned tools and ...

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Machine Shop Apprentice information

See Rhode Island salary details

$13

$19

$28

How much do machine shop apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop apprentice in Rhode Island is $19.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $21.44 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 Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in Rhode Island are:

Machine Shop Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Apprentice job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,083 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Mechanic - Machinist

General Dynamics Electric Boat

North Kingstown, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

General Dynamics Electric Boat rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 164 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 539 rated manufacturers

Job description

Are you mechanical... like working on cars... good at math.. then this is the position for you!

The Outside Machinists are responsible for all  mechanical work performed at Electric Boat.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

  • Performing layout work to support machining, assembly and installation of components into modules that will eventually become working parts of a nuclear submarine
  • Taking measurements with basic measuring tools and precision measuring equipment such as inside, outside and depth micrometers, dial calipers, vernier calipers and indicators
  • Utilization of standard hand tools such as, combination wrenches, torque wrenches, screw drivers, pliers etc...  
  • Utilization of various portable and fixed machinery such as bench grinders, hand held grinders, drill presses, hand held drills, magnetic base drills, hydraulic drills, portable boring equipment, milling machines and lathes
  • Work is performed utilizing technical work documents, blueprints, specification manuals and written or oral instruction
  • Installation and or machining tasks generally take place within a module or on hull. Working inside tanks or confined spaces should be expected. Bench type assignments are generally rare and temporary

Be part of a team that takes pride in building the worlds' most advance submarines. 

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Prescription Coverage
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • 401K
  • Commuter/Van Services
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • Paid Training
  • Shift Differential for 2nd and 3rd Shift
  • Professional Development and Advancement Opportunities

This position is located at the Quonset Point facility in North Kingstown, RI.


Required:

  • High school diploma or equivalent OR minimum of 2 years related technical experience

  • Available to work all shifts
  • Ability to work at heights, confined spaces and extreme temperature conditions as required
  • Individuals are required to possess their own basic hand tools

Preferred:

  • Machine shop, millwright or mechanical assembly experience and/or related experience
  • Strong math skills
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints
  • Experience working in a manufacturing environment 
  • Metal fabrication or milling experience and military shipbuilding experience 
  • Vocational, Technical and Community Colleges or Apprentice programs
  • Military/Navy experience 
  • Ability to use precision measuring tools, such as micrometers, dial indicators, vernier calipers, height gauges

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work in a collaborative and team environment and meet organizational goals

Climbing, Crawling, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Medium Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting
Acids or Alkalis, Cold, Dry, Dusty, Fumes, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily, Wet

What General Dynamics Electric Boat employees say

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