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Machine Shop Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Machine Shop Helper

Houston, TX · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

In this role, you will support daily shop operations, assist machine operators, and ensure products meet quality standards before they go out to customers. The majority of your time will be spent ...

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Supervise, coach, and develop machine operators and leads * Set clear expectations and hold team ... Lead by example in promoting a strong safety culture across the shop floor Equipment & Technical ...

... operating schedules and controls for one or more shifts in more than one area of the plant. * Lead ... Champion a culture of safety, discipline, and accountability throughout the machine shop. Ensure ...

... operating schedules and controls for one or more shifts in more than one area of the plant. * Lead ... Champion a culture of safety, discipline, and accountability throughout the machine shop. Ensure ...

... operating schedules and controls for one or more shifts in more than one area of the plant. * Lead ... Champion a culture of safety, discipline, and accountability throughout the machine shop. Ensure ...

Position Summary The Machine Shop Supervisor is responsible for the overall leadership, operation ... Ensure employees follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and standard operating ...

Position Summary The Machine Shop Supervisor is responsible for the overall leadership, operation ... Ensure employees follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and standard operating ...

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RESPONSIBILITIES: * Assist machine operators with daily production tasks * Load and unload materials into machines * Monitor machine operation and report any issues * Perform quality checks on ...

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Machine Operator 2nd shift 3-11:30pm (occasional Saturday shift) The Machine Operator I supports ... High School Diploma or local equivalent A minimum of 1 year of machine shop experience Ability to ...

Machine Operator 2nd shift 3-11:30pm (occasional Saturday shift) The Machine Operator I supports ... High School Diploma or local equivalent A minimum of 1 year of machine shop experience Ability to ...

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Machine Shop Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$10

$16

$20

How much do machine shop operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop operator in Houston, TX is $16.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $17.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine shop operator?

Machine Shop Operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain machinery used to produce metal parts and tools in manufacturing settings. They read blueprints or technical drawings, select appropriate machine tools, and ensure products meet precise specifications. Their responsibilities may include monitoring machine operations, making adjustments, performing routine maintenance, and inspecting finished products for quality. Machine Shop Operators play a vital role in ensuring the efficiency and accuracy of manufacturing processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine shop operator?

To thrive as a Machine Shop Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience with machining techniques, and typically a high school diploma or vocational training in machining. Familiarity with CNC machines, manual lathes, milling machines, and knowledge of safety protocols and measurement tools like calipers and micrometers are essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help operators excel in precision work and teamwork. These skills are crucial to ensure high-quality production, minimize errors, and maintain a safe, efficient work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by machine shop operators, and how can they be addressed?

Machine Shop Operators often face challenges such as maintaining precision under tight deadlines, handling a variety of complex machinery, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Staying organized and proactive with routine equipment maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and ensures productivity. Additionally, strong communication with team members and supervisors is vital to quickly resolve issues and maintain workflow. Continuous learning and staying updated with new technologies in machining can also help operators overcome evolving industry demands.

What is the difference between Machine Shop Operator vs Machinist?

AspectMachine Shop OperatorMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certificationsHigh school diploma; technical training or certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing shops, factories, machine shopsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, precision environments
Job FocusOperate and monitor machines, follow instructionsSet up, program, and operate complex machinery for precision parts

Machine Shop Operators typically handle machine operation and basic maintenance, while Machinists often perform more complex setup, programming, and precision work. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, but Machinists usually require more technical skills and training.

What qualifications do you need to work as a machine shop operator?

Machine shop operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require technical training or an apprenticeship in machining or manufacturing. Familiarity with tools, precision measurement, and safety procedures is essential, and some positions may require certification in specific machining techniques or equipment operation.
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,107 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Machine Shop Helper

Houston, TX • On-site

PrideStaff
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 501 - 1,000 employees

$15 - $16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Shop Helper - Machine Shop
Location: Houston, TX 77039
Starting Pay: $15.00 - $16.00 / hour (depending on experience)
Job Type: Full-time, Monday to Friday (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Job Description
We are seeking a dependable and hardworking Shop Helper to join a Machine Shop in North Houston. In this role, you will support daily shop operations, assist machine operators, and ensure products meet quality standards before they go out to customers. The majority of your time will be spent cleaning, grinding, and preparing parts for packaging.
Key Responsibilities

  • Part Preparation: Clean, grind, and mark parts for packaging (primary daily responsibility).
  • Operator Assistance: Help machine operators load and unload metal plates from burning tables.
  • Quality Control: Meet strict quality control expectations and maintain personal accountability for all parts produced.
  • Packaging & Shipping: Package completed jobs securely for delivery and assist in loading/unloading trucks and incoming deliveries.
  • Customer Service: Help load orders safely for our will-call customers.


Required Equipment Experience
Candidates must have experience and  be comfortable operating the following:

  • Hand-held grinding tools
  • Forklifts
  • Overhead cranes


Job Requirements

  • Must be able to read and understand shop orders and technical details in English.
  • Must possess basic math skills, including the ability to read, take and understand measurements.
  • Ability to handle the physical demands of a shop environment, including lifting and standing for long periods.
  • Reliable transportation to the 77039 area.
  • Bilingual, Spanish / English is a plus.

Company Description

Today’s job market is ultra-complex. Placing just the right people into just the right jobs doesn’t happen by chance. It’s a science. At PrideStaff, we’ve mastered the art of staffing to help our clients and candidates achieve their goals. Whether you’re a company looking for a true partner, or a job seeker looking to land a new position, PrideStaff experts eliminate guesswork and get results.


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About PrideStaff

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Accountability of local ownership along with the resources and expertise that the $200m national organization of PrideStaff backing us has. Therese is involved in all day-to-day operations. She leads a dynamic team of recruiters who together are focused on ensuring both clients and candidates have an exceptional experience. When you call the office, it is not unusual that Therese will answer the phone. Along with her team, she conducts interviews and helps with the hiring process. Additionally, PrideStaff’s 80+ other locations across the United States gives us resources not available to most other local staffing firms. It’s not what we say about ourselves that matters…it’s what has been said in our over 3,800 client testimonials that we’ve received over the years that matters.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fresno, CA, US