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Machine Shop Jobs in Rhode Island, RI (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Pawtucket, RI

$18 - $23/hr

Machine shop or stamping press experience * General production or assembly experience * Basic machine maintenance and troubleshooting * Knowledge of 5S and continuous improvement practices Why Join ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Attleboro, MA

$18 - $23/hr

Machine shop or stamping press experience * General production or assembly experience * Basic machine maintenance and troubleshooting * Knowledge of 5S and continuous improvement practices Why Join ...

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All JobsMachine Shop JobsMachine Shop Jobs in Rhode Island, RI

Machine Shop information

See Rhode Island, RI salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do machine shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop in Rhode Island, RI is $17.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like working in a machine shop?

A typical day in a machine shop involves setting up and operating various machines to manufacture or modify metal parts according to precise specifications. You'll often read blueprints or instructions, measure dimensions with specialized tools, and perform quality control checks on finished products. Collaboration with engineers, supervisors, and fellow machinists is common to troubleshoot issues and maintain smooth production. Safety is a top priority, and you may be responsible for maintaining equipment and keeping your workspace organized. The work is often hands-on and requires a focus on accuracy and efficiency throughout the shift.

What is a machine shop?

A machine shop job involves operating, maintaining, and programming machines such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders to manufacture metal or plastic parts. Workers in a machine shop may have roles like machinist, CNC operator, or tool and die maker. They follow blueprints and technical drawings to create precise components for industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. Strong attention to detail, mechanical skills, and knowledge of machining processes are essential for success in this role.

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

To thrive in a Machine Shop, you need strong mechanical aptitude, proficiency in operating machining equipment (such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders), and a solid understanding of safety protocols; a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, with additional technical certifications being highly beneficial. Familiarity with CNC programming, blueprint reading, precision measurement tools, and shop management software is often sought after. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills are essential to ensure high-quality production, prevent safety incidents, and maintain efficient workflow in a demanding manufacturing environment.

What cities near Rhode Island, RI are hiring for Machine Shop jobs? Cities near Rhode Island, RI with the most Machine Shop job openings:
Machine Shop jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop job openings in Rhode Island, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,072 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

American Tool - Machine Shop Assistant

We Make RI Partners

Lincoln, RI • On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Machine Shop Assistant / Shop Helper
Location: Lincoln, RI, USA
Job Type: Full-Time / Part-Time (e.g., 40 hours/week, Monday - Friday)
Pay Rate: $18.00 - $24.00 per hour (DOE)
About the Company
We are a growing, fast-paced precision machining/manufacturing shop located in the Lincoln area. We specialize in custom parts, prototyping, and high-volume production for the aerospace, industrial, and commercial sectors. We are looking for a reliable, hands-on Machine Shop Assistant to join our team. Position Summary The Machine Shop Assistant will work directly under the supervision of the Shop Supervisor and alongside experienced CNC and manual machinists. This role is a mix of material handling, basic machine operation, and quality control. It is an excellent opportunity to learn the trade and grow into a full Machinist role.
Key Responsibilities
  • Machine Operation & Setup: Assist machinists by loading raw materials, deburring finished parts, and operating basic shop equipment (e.g., cut-off saws).
  • Quality Control: Use precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, and gauges) to check parts for defects and verify they meet blueprint tolerances.
  • Material Handling: Safely transport raw materials, tooling, and finished parts throughout the shop using pallet jacks or forklifts.
  • Tooling & Inventory: Assist with organizing tooling cabinets and maintaining inventory of shop supplies.
  • Shop Maintenance: Clean and maintain work areas, empty hoppers/chip bins, and perform light preventive maintenance on machines.
  • Safety: Strictly adhere to all safety protocols, including wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Qualifications & Requirements
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent (Vocational technical schooling is a plus).
  • Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a manufacturing or machine shop environment is ideal, but basic mechanical aptitude and a willingness to learn are most important.
  • Physical Demands: Must be able to stand for extended periods, bend, kneel, and safely lift/move up to 50 lbs.
  • Skills: Basic mathematical skills and the ability to read and interpret simple blueprints.
  • Work Ethic: Strong attention to detail, highly reliable, and ability to thrive in a team-oriented, fast-paced setting.

Benefits & Perks
  • Competitive hourly pay
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
  • On-the-job training and career advancement opportunities
We Make RI logo

About We Make RI

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We Make RI started in conjunction with top Rhode Island Manufacturers to help them fill open positions by recruiting and training potential workers. With our new state-of-the-art facility, students work on real-world jobs in real-world applications. When they leave our manufacturing training programs, they can be confident they have the skills they need to get hired, and employers can be confident they have the right employees. Our paid training is open to unemployed and underemployed Rhode Islanders. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never worked in manufacturing before, or if you have long gaps in your work history, we can help you on the right path.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Cranston, RI, US

Year founded

2014

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