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Machine Shop Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Summit Staffing

Manual Machinist

Broadview, IL

$20 - $22/hr

... machine and modify parts (training provided). * Assist with building, repairing, and maintaining production tooling and components. * Perform mechanical assembly and disassembly of tooling and shop ...

Broadwind

Manufacturing Engineer - Machining

Cicero, IL

$73K - $94K/yr

... assist with workflow through the plant and create routings and work instructions. Experience working in a machine shop with an understanding of turning, milling, and gear cutting is highly desired.

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All JobsMachine Shop JobsMachine Shop Assistant JobsMachine Shop Assistant Jobs in Illinois

Machine Shop Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do machine shop assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop assistant in Illinois is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a machine shop assistant, and how can they be managed effectively?

Machine Shop Assistants often face challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols while working around heavy machinery, managing multiple tasks like material handling and equipment cleaning, and adapting to varying production schedules. Effective time management and consistent communication with machinists and supervisors can help address these challenges. Additionally, staying organized and proactive in identifying potential hazards contributes to a safer and more efficient workplace.

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

To thrive as a Machine Shop Assistant, you need a basic understanding of machining processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, measuring instruments like calipers and micrometers, and sometimes CNC machinery or safety certifications is typical. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong teamwork skills help you excel in supporting machinists and maintaining workflow. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient operations and contribute to producing high-quality machined parts.

What is the difference between Machine Shop Assistant vs Machinist?

AspectMachine Shop AssistantMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingTechnical training or apprenticeship; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in machine setup, cleaning, and material handling in machine shopsOperates and programs machines like lathes and mills in manufacturing settings
Job ResponsibilitiesSupports machinists, prepares materials, maintains equipmentSets up, operates, and monitors machining equipment to produce parts

While both roles work in machine shops, the Machine Shop Assistant primarily supports machinists by handling preparatory and maintenance tasks, whereas the Machinist directly operates and programs machines to produce precise parts. The assistant role often requires less technical training, making it an entry point into the industry.

What are the main duties of a machine shop assistant?

A Machine Shop Assistant supports machinists and technicians by preparing materials, operating basic machinery, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and organizing the workspace. They often assist with loading and unloading materials, measuring parts, and ensuring that tools and machines are in good working order. These assistants play a vital role in keeping the shop running smoothly and efficiently, often performing routine tasks so skilled machinists can focus on more complex work.

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 Assistant jobs?

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

Machine Shop Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Assistant job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,387 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Manual Machinist

Summit Staffing

Broadview, IL

$20 - $22/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Manual Machinist / Shop Technician

Overview Summary
Summit Staffing is seeking a hands-on Manual Machinist / Shop Technician to join a growing manufacturing team in Maywood, IL. This position is ideal for mechanically inclined individuals who enjoy working with tools, repairing equipment, building components, and supporting production in a shop environment.
This role includes a variety of shop responsibilities including light machining, assembly, tooling support, and general fabrication. A portion of the day will involve operating a manual lathe, but prior lathe experience is not required. Candidates with a strong mechanical aptitude can be trained on the equipment within the first few days.
If you have experience in manufacturing, maintenance, mechanical assembly, fabrication, automotive repair, welding, machine operation, or working with hand and power tools, we'd like to hear from you.

Job Details
Location: Maywood, Illinois
Type: Contract-to-Hire
Pay Range: $20.00 - $22.00/hour

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate a manual lathe to machine and modify parts (training provided).
  • Assist with building, repairing, and maintaining production tooling and components.
  • Perform mechanical assembly and disassembly of tooling and shop equipment.
  • Operate common shop equipment including grinders, drills, saws, and other manual tools.
  • Perform basic machining and fabrication tasks to support production.
  • Measure completed parts using tape measures, calipers, gauges, and other basic measuring tools.
  • Help maintain tooling used throughout the manufacturing process.
  • Keep work areas clean, organized, and safe.
  • Work closely with production and management to support daily manufacturing needs.
  • Follow all quality and safety procedures while producing dependable work.
Skills & Experience
  • Previous experience in manufacturing, production, assembly, maintenance, fabrication, machine operation, automotive repair, welding, or a related hands-on field.
  • Comfortable working with hand and power tools.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn new equipment.
  • Ability to accurately measure parts using basic measuring tools.
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
  • Dependable with a positive attitude and strong work ethic.
  • Able to lift, stand, bend, and work in a manufacturing environment throughout the shift.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience operating manual shop equipment such as lathes, grinders, drill presses, or saws.
  • Mechanical assembly or maintenance experience.
  • Welding or fabrication experience is a plus.
  • Experience working in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
  • Forklift experience is helpful but not required.
Work Environment
  • First Shift
  • Manufacturing and machine shop environment.
  • Variety of hands-on work including mechanical assembly, light machining, tooling support, and shop maintenance.
  • Manual lathe operation will make up only a portion of the daily responsibilities.
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and use of hand and power tools.
  • Required use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, steel-toed footwear, and other required safety equipment.
Why Join Summit Staffing?

At Summit Staffing, we connect hardworking individuals with leading employers across logistics, manufacturing, and distribution. This position offers a long-term opportunity to develop new machining skills while working in a hands-on manufacturing environment where every day brings something different. If you're mechanically inclined and enjoy building, repairing, and working with tools, this is an excellent opportunity to grow your career.
Benefits

Eligible Summit employees may receive access to:
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with pre-tax and Roth contributions
  • Accident and critical illness coverage
  • Paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay
About Summit Staffing
Summit Staffing has been a trusted partner to job seekers and employers throughout the Midwest since 1986. We specialize in light industrial, warehouse, and manufacturing staffing, matching talented individuals with opportunities that fit their goals and experience. Our success is built on personal relationships, integrity, and a commitment to helping people succeed because when our associates thrive, our clients do too.
Summit Staffing is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, religion, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.