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Machine Shop Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

HD Repair Center

Shop Assistance

Plainfield, IL · On-site

We are seeking a Shop Assistant to support our heavy-duty truck and trailer repair operations. This ... Exposure to heavy machinery, tools, and cleaning chemicals. * Exposure to extreme weather ...

Closets By Design

Machine Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $19/hr

The individual will be a shop assistant with the following responsibilities: * Operate woodworking machinery and hand tools. * Understand company product lines, machinery, assembly standards, and ...

Alfred Conhagen Inc

Entry-Level Machinist

Joliet, IL · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Learn the safe operation of manual machine shop equipment, including lathes, mills, drill presses, and other equipment as assigned. * Assist with measuring, inspecting, and documenting parts under ...

Ovation Holdings, Inc.

Entry-Level Machinist

Joliet, IL · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Learn the safe operation of manual machine shop equipment, including lathes, mills, drill presses, and other equipment as assigned. * Assist with measuring, inspecting, and documenting parts under ...

Conhagen

Entry-Level Machinist

Joliet, IL · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Learn the safe operation of manual machine shop equipment, including lathes, mills, drill presses, and other equipment as assigned. * Assist with measuring, inspecting, and documenting parts under ...

A Finkl & Sons Co

Melt Shop Helper

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.48/hr

Your primary objective will be to learn and assist in the operation of melting furnaces and ... You shall be trained to operate various other tools, equipment, and machinery so that they can fill ...

A Finkl & Sons Co

MELT SHOP HELPER

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.48/hr

Your primary objective will be to learn and assist in the operation of melting furnaces and ... You shall be trained to operate various other tools, equipment, and machinery so that they can fill ...

The University of Chicago

South Pole Machinist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Maintain and operate the MAPO machine shop. * Provide machining support for all science projects and the NSF Station. * Assist with the assembly and set-up of scientific equipment. * Assist with the ...

Aerotek

Shop Helper

Bloomingdale, IL

$18/hr

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area by following shop procedures and safety guidelines. * Assist other team members with general production tasks as needed and learn new skills by ...

New

Alamo Group

Shop Helper

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Maintain a clean and respectable facility, shop equipment, work environment, and parking areas * Assist Heavy Equipment Mechanic as needed * Pick up and deliver parts as needed * Wear company ...

Super Products LLC

Shop Helper

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Maintain a clean and respectable facility, shop equipment, work environment, and parking areas * Assist Heavy Equipment Mechanic as needed * Pick up and deliver parts as needed * Wear company ...

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 · On-site

$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 Chicago, IL

Machine Shop Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$18

$23

How much do machine shop assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop assistant in Chicago, IL is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $19.81 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Machine Shop Assistant jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Machine Shop Assistant job openings:

Machine Shop Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,682 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Shop Assistance

HD Repair Center

Plainfield, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Come join our Maintenance Team at HD Repair Center LLC. as a Shop Assistant. We are seeking a Shop Assistant to support our heavy-duty truck and trailer repair operations. This role requires a high degree of reliability and is essential in maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient maintenance shop environment, while ensuring all trucks, trailers, and equipment are properly prepared and road-ready for our drivers.

Main Responsibilities

  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the shop, including sweeping, mopping, and waste disposal.
  • Clean and detail trucks and trailers, both interior and exterior.
  • Inspect and prepare vehicles and equipment to ensure road readiness.
  • Assist technicians with basic tasks such as tool organization and parts handling.
  • Monitor inventory and restock cleaning supplies and shop materials as needed.
  • Follow all safety policies and procedures; promptly report hazards or maintenance issues.
  • Support drivers with vehicle readiness checks and provide minor assistance when needed.
  • Maintain the shop parking lot, including cleaning, blacktop upkeep, and snow removal.

Why HD Repair Center a good fit for You:

  • Competitive starting pay rates
  • Career stability
  • Opportunity for growth
  • Excellent benefits

Benefits offered:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Company sponsored Life Insurance, STD, and LTD
  • Supplemental Insurances
  • 401k w/ employer match
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • PTO

Qualifications

  • Dependability is a core requirement for this job.
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Basic mechanical knowledge is an asset.
  • Previous experience in a shop or vehicle maintenance environment is a plus.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Work Environment

  • Fast-paced, hands-on setting.
  • Exposure to heavy machinery, tools, and cleaning chemicals.
  • Exposure to extreme weather conditions.
  • Physical activity required (standing, bending, lifting).

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