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Machine Shop Helper Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

Core Machine Operator

Lebanon, PA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Ignite burners on core machine to obtain desired temperature per shop card. * Properly mount core ... Prior Experience helpful but not required. Other Position Demands or Requirements: Knowledge of or ...

... help meet program goals, work from written or verbal instructions, and follow all safety procedures and guidelines. WHAT YOU BRING * High school diploma. * Minimum of eight years of machine shop or ...

Safely operate manufacturing equipment in a machine shop environment. Interpreting customers ... These tools help us better understand workrelated strengths and support a fair and consistent ...

Safely operate manufacturing equipment in a machine shop environment. Interpreting customers ... These tools help us better understand work-related strengths and support a fair and consistent ...

Safely operate manufacturing equipment in a machine shop environment. Interpreting customers ... These tools help us better understand workrelated strengths and support a fair and consistent ...

Machinist - 1st Shift

Pottstown, PA · On-site

$35 - $38.50/hr

Help control downtime by informing production workers of routine maintenance techniques, monitoring ... Operating knowledge of machine shop related equipment and CNC programming preferred * Trade school ...

Machinist - 1st Shift

Pottstown, PA · On-site

$35 - $38.50/hr

Help control downtime by informing production workers of routine maintenance techniques, monitoring ... Operating knowledge of machine shop related equipment and CNC programming preferred * Trade school ...

Lab Analyst

Cressona, PA · On-site

$52 - $68/hr

Safely operate manufacturing equipment in a machine shop environment. Interpreting customers ... These tools help us better understand work‑related strengths and support a fair and consistent ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Shop Helper information

See Reading, PA salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do machine shop helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop helper in Reading, PA is $17.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine shop helper?

A Machine Shop Helper supports machinists and other workers by performing tasks such as material handling, cleaning equipment, and assisting with basic machine operations. They help keep the shop organized, maintain tools, and ensure a safe work environment. This role requires attention to detail, the ability to follow instructions, and basic mechanical skills. It is an entry-level position that provides hands-on experience in a manufacturing setting.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a machine shop helper?

Machine Shop Helpers typically assist machinists by preparing materials, maintaining a clean and organized work area, and transporting parts or tools as needed. Their day often includes using basic hand tools, operating cleaning equipment, performing routine maintenance on machinery, and ensuring all work areas comply with safety standards. Helpers may also be responsible for setting up or breaking down equipment, helping with inventory, and supporting quality control checks. Working closely with machinists and other shop staff provides valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to learn about advanced machine operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the machine shop helper position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Shop Helper, you need a solid understanding of basic mechanical skills, familiarity with hand and power tools, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with measurement instruments like calipers and micrometers, and knowledge of safety protocols such as OSHA standards, are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and good communication skills help you stand out in this supportive role. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, supporting machinists effectively, and ensuring the smooth operation of shop activities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Shop jobs in Reading, PA?

The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in Reading, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Machine Shop Helper jobs in Reading, PA?

For Machine Shop Helper jobs in Reading, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Machine Shop Helper jobs in Reading, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Machine Shop Helper jobs in Reading, PA are:

What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Machine Shop Helper jobs?

Cities near Reading, PA with the most Machine Shop Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Shop Helper job openings in Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,355 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Core Machine Operator

BQC Foundry

Lebanon, PA • On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description:

Summary Description:

Responsible for operating the core machine to make quality cores to form holes, voids, and hollows in aluminum castings according to specifications on operational method sheets.

Essential Functions:

  • Inspect equipment prior to running. All defects are to be reported to the department leader immediately. 
  • Inspects core boxes for nicks, dents and other damage prior to putting on machine to begin making cores. 
  • Notifies Leader of any of the above defects prior to putting on the machine to begin making cores.
  • Make sure you are using the correct sand for the cores you are making.
  • Ignite burners on core machine to obtain desired temperature per shop card.
  • Properly mount core boxes onto core machine.
  • Reads and follows the instructions on the shop card for producing quality cores.
  • Enter program into core machine for proper run time.
  • Start each automatic cycle; when the cycle is complete the machine operator will remove the cores and place them on the belt to be cleaned and placed in basket.
  • Monitor each cycle and inspect the cores as they are made, making any adjustments that are necessary. If changes are made, reports these changes to the leader to have the shop card updated.
  • Report any undue conditions to the department leader.
  • Cleans vent holes in core box as necessary.
  • Maintains accurate count on cores made during production run and enters into the Odyssey system when job is complete.
  • Properly punch on and off of correct shop orders in the Odyssey system.
  • When job is completed, removes the core box, replaces it with a new core box and repeats the above operations.
  • Assists maintenance during breakdowns.
  • Performs general housekeeping as needed.
  • Communicates effectively with department leader. 
  • Carries out all duties and responsibilities in full accordance with the Company’s policy’s and procedures.
  • Perform any and all other job related tasks as assigned.


Requirements:

Skills or Experience Required:

High School degree or equivalent. Prior Experience helpful but not required.

Other Position Demands or Requirements:

Knowledge of or the ability to learn core defects and proper operation and maintenance of core machine.  

Must be able to use the following machines, tools, equipment and/or work aids:

Cranes, hand tools, automated core machines and air hose