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Machine Shop Assistant Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

Field Technician

Missoula, MT · On-site

$30 - $51/hr

... Machinery affiliated product lines. * Operate equipment as needed to assist in locating and ... and in the shop. * Customer satisfaction is our priority at Modern Machinery; all customer ...

Equipment Coordinator

Missoula, MT · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Perform inbound inspections on Rental Machines and complete all related documentation to support ... Sales Advantage) to assist or complete in the documentation, tracking, recording, follow up, and ...

Equipment Coordinator

Missoula, MT · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Perform inbound inspections on Rental Machines and complete all related documentation to support ... Sales Advantage) to assist or complete in the documentation, tracking, recording, follow up, and ...

Position Overview: TEAM is seeking an entry-level NDT Assistant to support our certified ... or shop areas around production machinery with extreme noise levels. • Able to wear safety ...

$15 - $18.75/hr

... machine operations, operating power hand tools Support wharf/pier cleanliness Maintain cleanliness of work areas, shops, vehicles and assist in emergency repairs Collateral duties include but are not ...

Warehouse Associate

Bozeman, MT · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... scheduling, machine allocation, and the loading and unloading of freight are all done safely ... Aid with equipment set-up within our local shop * Provide support for emergency deliveries, pick up ...

Warehouse Associate

Bozeman, MT · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... scheduling, machine allocation, and the loading and unloading of freight are all done safely ... Aid with equipment set-up within our local shop * Provide support for emergency deliveries, pick up ...

Specialty Pipefitter

Billings, MT · On-site

$24.75 - $31.75/hr

May operate machinery to verify repair.- Loads, transports and unloads material, tools, equipment ... assist in lifting, positioning and securing of material and work pieces during installation ...

Specialty Pipefitter

Billings, MT

$24.75 - $31.75/hr

May operate machinery to verify repair.- Loads, transports and unloads material, tools, equipment ... assist in lifting, positioning and securing of material and work pieces during installation ...

Specialty Pipefitter

Billings, MT

$24.75 - $31.75/hr

May operate machinery to verify repair.- Loads, transports and unloads material, tools, equipment ... assist in lifting, positioning and securing of material and work pieces during installation ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Shop Assistant information

See Montana salary details

$12

$16

$21

How much do machine shop assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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 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 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:
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, 20% Part Time, 2% 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.

Field Technician

Modern Machinery

Missoula, MT • On-site

$30 - $51/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description


Modern Machinery has immediate opportunities for full-time, journey-level, highly motivated, self-directed Heavy Equipment Field Service Technicians. Candidates must be well established in the heavy equipment repair and maintenance industry with at least three to five years of experience operating a field service truck.
The hourly pay range for this position is: $30.00 to $51.00. This is a non-exempt position and is eligible for overtime pay.
Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • 401k/Roth Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match
  • Participation in Annual Profit-Sharing Plan
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, Holiday, Bereavement & Parental Leave)
  • Gym Membership Reimbursement Program
  • Family Scholarship Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Virtual Mental Health & Tele Medicine Benefit
  • Company Paid Life Insurance & Disability Benefits
  • Additional Supplemental Insurance (Term Life, Accident & Critical Illness and Voluntary Vision)

Modern Machinery is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Responsibilities
  • Demonstrate Modern Machinery's core values and promote the mission and vision of the company.
  • Follow all company policies and regulations for safe work procedures and contribute to the achievement of company safety goals.
  • Independently troubleshoot and repair all systems (electrical, hydraulic, A/C, power train, etc.) on Komatsu and other Modern Machinery affiliated product lines.
    • Operate equipment as needed to assist in locating and diagnosing the failure.
    • Utilize hand and power tools and electronic diagnostic equipment.
    • Read and interpret complex hydraulic and electrical schematics.
    • Perform diagnostic testing and tuning of equipment.
    • Have the experience and ability to determine the extent of the repair and the corrective action required.
  • Follow all safety rules and policies while performing all work assignments as specified in company handbooks.
    • Adhere to any additional customer requirements, safety related and otherwise when working on a customer's site.
  • Asses parts to determine the cause of failure and/or their reusability.
    • Communicate with parts department personnel to order the necessary parts required to complete repair(s).
  • Perform assignments in a variety of environments, including the field, on customer's sites and in the shop.
  • Customer satisfaction is our priority at Modern Machinery; all customer inquiries must be handled promptly and in a professional manner.
    • Effectively communicate to the customer the machine's problem, the intended plan for repair and provide status updates throughout the repair process.
    • Establish strong customer relationships.
    • Work well under pressure and within deadlines while maintaining a positive attitude.
  • Ensure the assigned field service truck is appropriately maintained and kept clean.
  • Complete and submit assigned work order reports, time entry and all other paperwork on company provided laptop daily.
    • When appropriate compile any additional documentation necessary for completeness.
  • Assist other technicians on large repairs or projects.
  • Attend and participate in appropriate training(s).

The responsibilities described above are the general nature and levels of work performed but are not intended to be a complete comprehensive list of all the duties, activities, and responsibilities required of job incumbents. Responsibilities, duties, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Qualifications
Job Requirements/Skills:
  • Must demonstrate troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving skills.
  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time along with walking, climbing ladders and stairs, reaching, pulling, leaning, and twisting.
  • Requires a valid driver's class A or B CDL and the ability to maintain an insurable driving record
  • Accurately complete DOT E-Logs and maintain compliance with DOT hours of service.
  • Must be able to work well independently or with others in a team environment.
  • Must be reliable, honest, and have a strong work ethic.
  • Must have strong organizational and time management skills
  • Must be able to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing with customers and co-workers.
  • Must be able to lift up to75 lbs.
  • Must own required tools.
  • Ability to work overtime with minimal notice.
  • Must be able to travel away from home.
  • Strong computer skills.

Education/Experience:
  • High School diploma required. Associates or Bachelor's degree in diesel technology or related field preferred and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Minimum of three to five years of verifiable experience repairing heavy equipment in a field service truck.
  • Prior dealership experience is beneficial.
  • Experience with Komatsu as the primary equipment line is preferred, all others may apply.