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Machinist Helper Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

International Paper

Machine Helper

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$21.48/hr

Machine Helper Pay Rate : $17.48/hr. up to $21.48 /hr. Category/Shift : Hourly Full-Time (7:00 AM - 3:30 PM) Monday-Friday Physical Location : International Paper 6405 Commonwealth Drive SW Roanoke ...

Pratt Industries

Machine Helper 2nd Shift

Sandston, VA

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Machine Helper Shift: 2nd Location : Sandston, VA Job Type : Full Time, Hourly Perks of Pratt: Within 1 Month : Eligible for insurance benefits At 3 Months : 401k with partial match At 6 Months

Pratt Industries

Machine Helper 1st Shift

Sandston, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Machine Helper Shift: 1st Location : Sandston, VA Job Type : Full Time, Hourly Perks of Pratt: Within 1 Month: Eligible for insurance benefits At 3 Months: 401k with partial match At 6 Months: Paid ...

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How much do machinist helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for machinist helper in Virginia is $19.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $21.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Machinist Helper, you need a basic understanding of machine operation, mechanical aptitude, and experience with hand tools, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and safety procedures is typical, while some employers may require forklift certification or experience using CNC machines. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions are valuable soft skills in this position. These skills ensure safe, efficient assistance to machinists and contribute to smooth workflow in precision manufacturing environments.

What kind of career growth can I expect as a machinist helper?

Starting as a Machinist Helper offers a solid entry point into the manufacturing industry, with opportunities to gain hands-on experience and learn advanced machining techniques. Many employers provide on-the-job training or apprenticeships, allowing you to develop your technical skills further. With dedication and a strong work ethic, Machinist Helpers often progress to roles such as Machinist, CNC Operator, or Maintenance Technician. Advancement typically comes with increased responsibility, higher pay, and the chance to specialize in particular types of machinery or processes.

What is a machinist helper?

A Machinist Helper assists machinists in operating, maintaining, and setting up machines used for cutting, shaping, and assembling metal or plastic parts. They perform tasks such as loading materials, cleaning machines, and inspecting finished products for quality. This role requires basic mechanical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety guidelines. Machinist Helpers often work in manufacturing or machining shops and may learn on the job to advance into machinist roles over time.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machinist jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Machinist jobs in Virginia are:
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What cities in Virginia are hiring for Machinist Helper jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Machinist Helper job openings:
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Machinist Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machinist Helper job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,059 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Helper (Inside Machinist) - Steel America (Job ID: 1422)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$17.18 - $19.81/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Helper (Inside Machinist) - Steel America
Purpose:
Steel America is seeking a Helper to support operations in our Inside Machine Shop at our site in Norfolk, VA.
Job Description:
  • Assist machinists with set-up and operation of CNC and/or manual mills and lathes.
  • Load and unload trucks and other conveyances.
  • Perform duties such as fire watch, assisting welders and technicians, running electrical cable on shore locations, onboard ships, and other vessels as needed.
  • Move supplies and materials to proper locations by hand or hand trucks.
  • Use basic power tools to include grinders and drills.
  • Paint small areas as needed.
  • Stack materials for storage.
  • Collect refuse and salvageable materials.
  • Move heavy pieces of office and shipboard furniture, machinery and equipment.
  • Assist in installation of communications hardware.
  • Perform minor equipment repairs as needed.
  • Complete various cleaning tasks to include sweeping, shoveling, mopping, scrubbing, and/or raking of ships, bulkheads, compartments, tanks, restroom and kitchen facilities, dry docks, railways, parking areas, and all other areas of company property.
  • Will lift and carry trash, steel, scrap, steel, palettes, wood scraps, and all other trash to proper containers.
  • Stain removal of sidewalks, walls, decks, and floors using chemicals and cleaning solutions.
  • Complete landscaping tasks such as clearing walkways, lawn maintenance, snow removal and other incidental seasonal tasks.
  • Organize and maintain various departments.
  • Choose appropriate tools and equipment for the completion of one's duties.
  • Gather and deliver tools, products, and equipment to work site/shop for trade employees.
  • Work independently to complete responsibilities.
  • Must have regular, reliable attendance.
  • Will be required to wear personal protective equipment-hard hat, safety glasses, steel toe boots/ shoes and when necessary, respirator.
  • Firewatch duties as required.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Must have a high school diploma.
  • Must be able to travel as required.
  • Must be willing to work 2nd and 3rd shifts and overtime as needed.
  • Must be able to work effectively with others.
  • Must have regular, reliable attendance.

Preferred Requirements:
  • Previous experience working at Colonna's Shipyard highly preferred.

Travel Requirements:
  • Minimal Travel; 10% or less.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • May ride ships at sea for extended periods
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
  • Frequent use of respirator.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.

Respect, Pride, Truth, Family - These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonna's Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Additionally, Colonna's Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid disability insurances, 401k with match, legal services, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).
Pay Range: $17.18 - $19.81
Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate's relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees' best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO).

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