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Machine Shop Helper Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Machine Shop Helper

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

SUMMARY The Shop Hand is an entry-level role supporting our CNC Machine Shop operations. This position is responsible for general shop support, material handling, housekeeping, and assisting ...

Machine Shop

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$16.28/hr

Help complete daily operational logs, shift tracking records, and safety checklists cleanly ... Details for Machine Shop: * Pay Rate: $16.28 / hour starting (Structured wage reviews at 30, 60 ...

Shop Helper

Auburn, WA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Shop Helper - Transmissions (Aviation) Status: Non-Exempt Location: Auburn, Washington Department: Transmissions Shop (1120) Schedule: Monday-Friday, 5:55AM-2:30PM (40 hours/week), subject to ...

Shop Helper

Auburn, WA

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Shop Helper - Transmissions (Aviation) Status: Non-Exempt Location: Auburn, Washington Department: Transmissions Shop (1120) Schedule: Monday-Friday, 5:55AM-2:30PM (40 hours/week), subject to ...

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Machine Shop Helper information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$12

$20

$26

How much do machine shop helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop helper in Seattle, WA is $20.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $20.82 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 is the hourly rate for a machine shop helper?

The hourly rate for a machine shop helper typically ranges from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level helpers may earn closer to the lower end, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages.

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 Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Shop Helper jobs in Seattle, WA? For Machine Shop Helper jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Shop Helper jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Shop Helper jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Machine Shop Helper jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Machine Shop Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Helper job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,105 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Machine Shop Helper

Karman Space & Defense

Mukilteo, WA • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Karman Space & Defense rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SUMMARY

The Shop Hand is an entry-level role supporting our CNC Machine Shop operations. This position is responsible for general shop support, material handling, housekeeping, and assisting machinists with day-to-day tasks. The role is designed as a feeder into our Machinist I track, offering hands-on exposure to CNC machining, tooling, and manufacturing workflows.


PLEASE NOTE - THIS POSISTION IS IN PERSON FOR THE KARMAN LOCATION IN ARLINGTON WASHINGTON.

ABOUT US

Karman Space & Defense provides concept-to-production solutions for mission-critical systems on spacecraft, launch vehicles, missiles, hypersonics, and integrated defense systems. We believe that solving the industry’s most complex and mission-critical challenges requires relentless determination and a willingness to push the boundaries of possibility. Karman Space & Defense brings to bear unparalleled production capabilities, unmatched engineering expertise, and unflinching analysis to render the impossible, possible.


COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement*


RESPONSIBILITY & AUTHORITY

  • Perform general shop support tasks including cleaning, organizing, and maintaining a safe/efficient work environment.
  • Handle raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods (move, stage, and store as directed).
  • Assist machinists with setups, tool changes, and part handling.
  • Operate basic support equipment such as saws, deburr tools, and hand tools (training provided).
  • Support the shop’s 5S program: sort, set in order, shine, standardize, sustain.
  • Perform routine maintenance and replenishment (e.g., cutting fluid checks, shop supplies).
  • Run errands and assist across departments to keep production flowing.
  • Learn and follow all company safety and quality procedures.
  • Cross-train with machinists to prepare for advancement into a Machinist I role.


EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

  • High school diploma.
  • Strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn.
  • Ability to lift 25–50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort using hand tools.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.


KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be detail oriented, extremely organized, have excellent communication skills and be able to interact well with all levels of Management.
  • Must have general blue print interpretation skills.
  • Must have some knowledge of machine set-ups, tools, tooling, cutters and assembly practices.


ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, certain positions may require applicants to be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.

Karman is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability; citizenship status; uniform servicemember status; or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law. Our management is dedicated to ensuring the fulfillment of this policy with respect to hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, recruitment advertising, pay, and other forms of compensation, training, and general treatment during employment.


What Karman Space & Defense employees say

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