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Machine Shop Assistant Jobs in Federal Way, WA (NOW HIRING)

American Workforce Group

Machine Shop

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$16.28/hr

Machine Operator Assistants Wanted at Sustainable Plastics Leader! Do you have strong attention to ... Description for Machine Shop: * Perform a variety of hands-on, repetitive manufacturing tasks to ...

Northwest Landscape Services (NLS)

Shop Assistant

Kent, WA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

JOB SUMMARY: Assist with general shop activities, contributing to an efficient and organized shop ... Operate machinery (lawn mowers, riding mowers) to move around shop * Deliver equipment to job sites

AA Asphalting, LLC

Shop Help

Sumner, WA · On-site

$21.50 - $24.50/hr

The Shop Help position will assist mechanics in the repair and maintenance of trucks, machinery and equipment by performing the following duties.Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the ...

PrideStaff (Seattle, WA)

CNC Machinist

Sumner, WA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

... * Assist & Monitor The Department For Efficiency, Quality & Accuracy * Ensure All Machines Are ... High School Diploma or Equivalent Required * 3+ Years of Machine Shop Lead Experience Required * 5+ ...

PrideStaff - Seattle

CNC Machinist

Sumner, WA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

... * Assist & Monitor The Department For Efficiency, Quality & Accuracy * Ensure All Machines Are ... High School Diploma or Equivalent Required * 3+ Years of Machine Shop Lead Experience Required * 5+ ...

Fuze HR Solutions Inc.

CNC Mill Machinist

Sumner, WA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Monitor machine performance and production output * Assist with tooling and fixturing selection and ... Minimum 3 years of machine shop experience * 3+ years of CNC Mill setup and machining experience

Aerotek

Cnc Machinist

Fife, WA · On-site

$22 - $40/hr

... * Assist with or perform CNC programming and editing as needed to optimize machining processes ... Work Environment This is a hands-on manufacturing role in a machine shop environment that uses ...

Aerotek

Manufacturing Assistant

Sumner, WA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... as needed. * Assist with deburring, cleaning, and part preparation activities to support ... Exposure to operating basic machine shop equipment. * Experience working with cross-functional ...

Seattle Art Museum

Studio at SAM Assistant

Seattle, WA · On-site

ABOUT THE ROLE In support of the installation Studio at SAM, the Print Shop Assistant supports and ... machines and printers, and ability to inspect, prepare and use paperwork, files, equipment, and ...

RealCraft

Shop Hand

Gig Harbor, WA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Shop Support * Assist with maintenance of tools, machines, and shop vehicles as needed (changing belts and blades, checking oil, general upkeep). * Keep tools, PPE supplies, and equipment organized ...

AA Asphalting, LLC

Shop Help

Sumner, WA · On-site

$21.50 - $24.50/hr

The Shop Help position will assist mechanics in the repair and maintenance of trucks, machinery and equipment by performing the following duties. Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the ...

RealCraft

Shop Hand

Gig Harbor, WA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Shop Support * Assist with maintenance of tools, machines, and shop vehicles as needed (changing belts and blades, checking oil, general upkeep). * Keep tools, PPE supplies, and equipment organized ...

AA Asphalting LLC

Shop Help

Sumner, WA

The Shop Help position will assist mechanics in the repair and maintenance of trucks, machinery and equipment by performing the following duties. Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the ...

RealCraft

Shop Hand

Gig Harbor, WA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Shop Support * Assist with maintenance of tools, machines, and shop vehicles as needed (changing belts and blades, checking oil, general upkeep). * Keep tools, PPE supplies, and equipment organized ...

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All JobsMachine Shop JobsMachine Shop Assistant JobsMachine Shop Assistant Jobs in Federal Way, WA

Machine Shop Assistant information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$15

$20

$25

How much do machine shop assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop assistant in Federal Way, WA is $20.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $21.49 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 cities near Federal Way, WA are hiring for Machine Shop Assistant jobs?

Cities near Federal Way, WA with the most Machine Shop Assistant job openings:

Machine Shop Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Assistant job openings in Federal Way, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,933 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Machine Shop

Tacoma, WA • On-site

American Workforce Group
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about American Workforce Groupexternal

$16.28/hr

Full-time, Other

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

Job description

Shape Your Future: Machine Operator Assistants Wanted at Sustainable Plastics Leader!


Do you have strong attention to detail, a great team work ethic, and a desire to secure a dependable night-shift routine? American Workforce Group has partnered with a highly respected, long-standing plastics manufacturing company in Tacoma, WA to hire multiple full-time Machine Shop Support Operators. Secure a reliable nighttime schedule, competitive starting pay with rapid reviews for raises at 30, 60, and 90 days, and a stable path to a permanent career with full healthcare benefits!


Description for Machine Shop:


  • Perform a variety of hands-on, repetitive manufacturing tasks to help produce high-quality plastic sheets.
  • Safely place parts into specialized mechanical fixtures to prepare them for machining cycles.
  • Help complete daily operational logs, shift tracking records, and safety checklists cleanly.
  • Maintain a highly organized work area, remove material scrap, and follow core plant safety guidelines.
  • Maintain high situational awareness and work collaboratively with your shift team to hit production targets.

Details for Machine Shop:


  • Pay Rate: $16.28 / hour starting (Structured wage reviews at 30, 60, and 90 days for raise opportunities).
  • Schedule Options: Monday - Friday Graveyard (10pm-6:30am) OR Rotating 12-Hour Night Shift (7pm-7am).
  • Location: Tacoma, WA.
  • Position Type: Full-Time, Temp-to-Hire.

Requirements for Machine Shop:


  • Must be comfortable, focused, and reliable when handling highly repetitive industrial tasks.
  • Must supply and wear steel-toed shoes or boots daily on the active manufacturing floor.
  • Strong attention to detail, good teamwork skills, and clear verbal communication habits.
  • Must pass a standard pre-employment drug screen.
  • Exceptional history of daily attendance, prompt punctuality, and reliable transportation.


???? Email your warehouse resume directly for immediate review: piercejobs@americanworkforcegroup.com

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