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Machine Shop Assistant Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

GENCO Systems

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Mechanical Engineering Technician - Missoula, MT

Missoula, MT · On-site

Operate manual machine-shop tools such as lathes, mills, and grinders to manufacture custom parts. * Technical Design & CAD: Assist in the technical design of specialized machinery, including ...

Modern Machinery

Shop Technician

Missoula, MT · On-site

$30 - $54/hr

... Heavy Equipment Shop Service Technicians. Candidates must be well established in the heavy ... Machinery affiliated product lines. * Operate equipment as needed to assist in locating and ...

Modern Machinery

Shop Technician

Missoula, MT · On-site

$30 - $54/hr

... Heavy Equipment Shop Service Technicians. Candidates must be well established in the heavy ... Machinery affiliated product lines. * Operate equipment as needed to assist in locating and ...

ProSidian Consulting

Administrative Assistant

Great Falls, MT · On-site

$15.75 - $21.25/hr

Assists with driving Government vehicles to local shops for routine maintenance; tracks vehicle ... Schedules office machine tech support and maintenance calls. Processes mail by use of proper ...

ProSidian Consulting

Administrative Assistant

Bozeman, MT · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Assists with driving Government vehicles to local shops for routine maintenance; tracks vehicle ... Schedules office machine tech support and maintenance calls. Processes mail by use of proper ...

SCHEELS

Service Shop Technician-PT

Billings, MT · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Equipment may involve bicycles, exercise machines, snowboards, skis, hockey skates and sticks ... Maintain accurate and detailed records for store and customer equipment * Assist with delivering ...

Scheels

Service Shop Technician-PT

Billings, MT · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Equipment may involve bicycles, exercise machines, snowboards, skis, hockey skates and sticks ... Maintain accurate and detailed records for store and customer equipment * Assist with delivering ...

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Machine Shop Assistant information

See Montana salary details

$12

$16

$21

How much do machine shop assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop assistant in Montana is $16.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $17.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 qualifications do you need to work in a machine shop assistant?

A machine shop assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent and basic mechanical skills. Experience with hand tools, knowledge of safety procedures, and the ability to read technical drawings are also important qualifications for the role.

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

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

What cities in Montana are hiring for Machine Shop Assistant jobs?

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

Machine Shop Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Assistant job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,465 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Mill Shop Assistant At Montana Reclaimed Lumber

MONTANA RECLAIMED LUMBER

Gallatin Gateway, MT • On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description
Job Description

Location: Gallatin Gateway, MT (just outside Bozeman)

Bring History Back to Life—Join Our Mill Shop Team

At Montana Reclaimed Lumber Co., we take pride in transforming century-old wood into timeless new products like flooring, siding, and custom millwork. We’re growing fast and looking for a motivated Mill Shop Assistant to join our hardworking crew at our main yard in Gallatin Gateway.

This is a full-time, long-term opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on work, takes pride in craftsmanship, and wants to be part of a team that values quality, sustainability, and efficiency.

What You’ll Do

  • Mill Reclaimed Wood: Operate industrial woodworking machines such as a resaw, planer, and straight-line rip saw to process materials according to custom work orders
  • Maintain Equipment: Perform basic upkeep on machines to ensure safety and reliability
  • Sort & Stack: Organize lumber by size, quality, and project needs
  • Support the Shop: Move materials in and out of the mill using forklifts (we’ll train you!)
  • Stay Safe & Organized: Maintain a clean, safe, and efficient workspace
  • Apprentice Sharpening Saw Blades

What We’re Looking For

  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow precise instructions
  • Comfortable using tools like Skil saws, chainsaws, and other shop equipment
  • Strong math and measuring skills—ability to calculate board feet, square footage, etc.
  • Problem-solving mindset and willingness to learn
  • Able to lift up to 75 lbs. and work on your feet throughout the day
  • A positive attitude, reliability, and motivation to grow with the company

What We Offer

  • Competitive Pay: Based on experience and position level
  • Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance + Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Retirement: 401(k) with company match
  • Paid Time Off: PTO and holiday pay
  • Flexible Scheduling: We value work-life balance
  • On-the-Job Training: No prior experience necessary—we'll train the right person
  • Advancement Opportunities: We promote from within whenever possible

Why Work with Us?

Our work is as unique as the materials we use. Every day, you’ll be handling one-of-a-kind lumber with history, character, and purpose. If you're looking for a career that’s hands-on, active, and rewarding—we’d love to meet you.

Apply Today

Call us, stop by in person, or email your resume to apply. We're hiring now and looking for someone ready to grow with us.


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