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Machine Shop Assistant Jobs in Buffalo, NY (NOW HIRING)

Senior CNC Machinist

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Able to perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on machine shop equipment. * Able to assist in training and mentoring junior machinists and other shop personnel. * Share technical ...

Able to perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on machine shop equipment. * Able to assist in training and mentoring junior machinists and other shop personnel. * Share technical ...

Senior CNC Machinist

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Able to perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on machine shop equipment. * Able to assist in training and mentoring junior machinists and other shop personnel. * Share technical ...

CNC Machinist

North Tonawanda, NY · On-site

$28.17/hr

Apply knowledge of machine shop theory, shop mathematics, material machinability, and layout ... Maintain close attention to detail, workmanship, and safety practices. * Assist with fixture and ...

General Laborer

Clarence, NY · On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

... assist in machine shop activities such as operating metal fabricating/finishing equipment to cut, bend, form and/or finish metal parts as specified by customer requirements; fits and/or assembles ...

... assist in machine shop activities such as operating metal fabricating/finishing equipment to cut, bend, form and/or finish metal parts as specified by customer requirements; fits and/or assembles ...

General Laborer

Clarence, NY · On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

... assist in machine shop activities such as operating metal fabricating/finishing equipment to cut, bend, form and/or finish metal parts as specified by customer requirements; fits and/or assembles ...

General Laborer

Clarence, NY · On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

... assist in machine shop activities such as operating metal fabricating/finishing equipment to cut, bend, form and/or finish metal parts as specified by customer requirements; fits and/or assembles ...

... assist in machine shop activities such as operating metal fabricating/finishing equipment to cut, bend, form and/or finish metal parts as specified by customer requirements; fits and/or assembles ...

Diesel Mechanic

Glenwood, NY · On-site

$23.50 - $31.25/hr

... machinery. This position helps ensure the safe and reliable operation of equipment critical to ... Maintain a clean, organized, and safe maintenance shop. * Assist other maintenance departments as ...

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Machine Shop Assistant information

See Buffalo, NY salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do machine shop assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop assistant in Buffalo, NY is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $18.61 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 Buffalo, NY?

The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in Buffalo, NY are:

What cities near Buffalo, NY are hiring for Machine Shop Assistant jobs?

Cities near Buffalo, NY with the most Machine Shop Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Shop Assistant job openings in Buffalo, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,373 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

CNC Machinist AA - 2nd Shift

API Heat Transfer

Buffalo, NY

$30.66/hr

Other

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description


API Heat Transfer is looking for people who enjoy being part of transformation. We have a new mission, new leaders, and are accelerating our path to Lean Cultural Change. Our Operations Team is on the way to becoming a Lean Management powerhouse! If you like to fix things, and want to be part of a new API, we'd love to talk to you about our CNC Machinist AA – Second Shift position!
At API we take our culture transformation seriously! To help find the best fit for our positions and organization, we ask that you complete our 10 minute Culture Index Survey. Simply follow the link after submitting your application to help us use our interview time to dive deeper into your job behaviors and work history. https://go.cultureindex.com/s/7Y0awCvsZZ

What We Offer You:

Starting wage $30.66/hour plus $1.75 shift differential, incremental increases move to $33.68 after one year
Be part of leading-edge technology for the heat transfer industry
Career development and advancement
Multi-site, global operations to learn
Ability to impact customers across multiple industries
Full health & welfare benefits, PTO

What Can Our Location Offer You:
Only 20 minutes from the beautiful Buffalo waterfront and 45 minutes from Niagara Falls
In house market style cafeteria with plenty of healthy selections
Buffalo is known for our wide range of choices for food and beverages from our famous Buffalo Wings and Beef on Weck to several micro-breweries and distilleries scattered across the region

What You Will Do:

Performs layout work on rough and finished-machined parts such as castings, forgings, burn plate and pipe for self-only. 

Manages high speed drills and reamers that are stored in the Machine Shop.

Sets up and operates existing machines in the machine shop. Task involves the set-up and monitoring of two CNC control operated machine tools for concurrent operation or the individual operation of one manual function machine tool.

Should the need arise, is adaptable to new machine tools that are added to the machine shop.

Works to required tolerances and directly from prints, specifications, and work instructions.

Required to produce quality parts to proper specification according to blueprint and/or process

Must sharpen, grind, and maintain tools.

Must perform daily routine maintenance as specified in startup procedures.

Responsible for maintaining work area/equipment in a safe, clean and orderly condition.

Must assist lower classification machinists

Perform minor part programming or part editing at the machine tool control.

Performs closely related duties as assigned 

Minimum Requirements:

Must have the necessary standard Machinist tools

Must be willing to demonstrate ability to perform all job duties when required 

Must have ability to determine proper speeds and feeds under various operating conditions, relative to operations being performed.

Must hold valid accredited CNC Certification or minimum 3-5 years CNC experience in machine shop environment or related field.

Must be able to transmit programs to the machines from the P.C. 

Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift and carry heavy items
Stand and walk for extended periods
Perform repetitive tasks such as bending, stooping and reaching 

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