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Mechanical Helper Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

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Help identify and document deficiencies or issues discovered during service or inspections. * Load ... basic mechanical or electrical aptitude preferred; ability to obtain required licenses or ...

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Mechanical Helper information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do mechanical helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for mechanical helper in Oak Ridge, TN is $17.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $17.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical helper?

Mechanical helpers are entry-level workers who assist skilled tradespeople, such as mechanics or engineers, with repairing, maintaining, and assembling machinery or mechanical systems. Their duties often include fetching tools, cleaning work areas, holding parts in place, and performing basic maintenance tasks under supervision. Mechanical helpers play a vital role in ensuring that work environments are safe, organized, and efficient, while gaining valuable hands-on experience that can lead to more advanced positions in the mechanical field.

What does a mechanical helper do?

Mechanical Helpers usually assist skilled mechanics by preparing tools, organizing workspaces, and handling routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning equipment and replacing parts. They often help transport materials, hold or adjust machinery during repairs, and follow safety protocols closely. By efficiently managing these support tasks, Mechanical Helpers enable mechanics and engineers to focus on more complex work, ensuring the team's productivity and smooth workflow. Collaboration and clear communication are key, as helpers frequently respond to direction from multiple team members throughout the day.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical helper?

To thrive as a Mechanical Helper, you need a solid understanding of basic mechanical principles, hand and power tool operation, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like wrenches, pneumatic devices, and sometimes entry-level certifications in safety (such as OSHA) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure safe, efficient support for mechanics and contribute to the smooth operation of maintenance or repair tasks.

What is the difference between Mechanical Helper vs Mechanical Assembler?

AspectMechanical HelperMechanical Assembler
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical knowledgeHigh school diploma; some technical training or experience preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, repair shopsManufacturing facilities, assembly lines, production plants
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, maintenance, manufacturingManufacturing, assembly, production industries
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level manufacturing rolesMore specialized in assembling mechanical parts

The main difference between a Mechanical Helper and a Mechanical Assembler is that the Helper provides general assistance, such as moving materials and supporting tasks, while the Assembler focuses on putting together mechanical components. Both roles require basic technical knowledge and are found in manufacturing environments, but the Helper typically performs more supportive duties, whereas the Assembler is more involved in the assembly process.

How much do mechanical helpers make in the US?

Mechanical helpers in the US typically earn an average hourly wage of around $15 to $20, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $40,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks performed in the construction or manufacturing environments.

What is a mechanical helper work?

A mechanical helper assists skilled workers such as mechanics or technicians by performing tasks like cleaning, holding parts, and preparing tools. They often work in industrial or construction settings and may need basic knowledge of tools and safety procedures. The role supports the maintenance, repair, or installation of machinery and equipment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Mechanical jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Mechanical Helper jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Mechanical Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Helper job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,192 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Designer

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16868 

Overview:    

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a skilled and innovative Senior Mechanical Designer to join our dynamic team. As a Mechanical Designer at ORNL, you will have the opportunity to work on groundbreaking research and development projects, collaborating with world-class scientists and engineers to advance scientific discoveries and technological advancements. 

This position resides in the Design Services Group in the Neutron Technologies Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).    

Major Duties/Responsibilities:   

  • Collaborates with researchers, engineers, and fellow designers to develop mechanical designs and solutions for one-of a kind scientific instruments, prototypes, and experimental setups. 

  • As an expert user of Creo Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, creates robust, detailed 3D models and drawings that represent solutions to complicated manufacturing, assembly, and customer requirement driven equipment functionalities. 

  • Applies advanced knowledge of ASME Y14.5-2018 standards in performing tolerance stacks to assure fit and functionality of proposed designs. 

  • Performs design analysis and optimization to ensure functionality, safety, and mechanical systems efficiency. 

  • Prepares clear, complete, and accurate working plans and detail drawings from layouts, rough or detailed sketches, electronic databases, and written or verbal instructions. 

  • Applies advanced knowledge of engineering codes and drafting standards against detailed drawings to ensure compliance. 

  • Participate in design reviews and interdisciplinary team meetings ensuring project goals are met. 

  • Pursue personal development to continually build/refine your skillset.  

  • As a member of the ORNL scientific community, you will be expected to commit to ORNL's Research Code of Conduct. Our full code of conduct, and a statement by the Lab Director's office can be found here:  https://www.ornl.gov/content/research-integrity  

  • Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.  

Basic Qualifications: 

  • An AS degree in an engineering related field with a minimum of 7 years of experience in mechanical design and engineering. 

  • An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered (a high school diploma with a minimum of 9 years of relevant experience or a BS degree in an engineering related field with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience). 

  • Expert in Creo CAD software (mastery in other 3D programs such as SolidWorks considered) with experience creating 3D models and technical drawings. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Familiar with top-down modeling techniques, and how to efficiently work with large assembly models. 

  • Utilizes best practices to incorporate MBD principles into the CAD models, and incorporates showing these annotations/dimensions in the 2D drawings. 

  • Proficiency in working with ASME Y-14.5 Dimensioning & Tolerancing standards to perform tolerance stack ups. 

  • Working knowledge of various manufacturing techniques and their associated tolerance capabilities/limitations. 

  • Demonstrated proficiency at creating and completing multiple design packages which have resulted in successful product launches and service. 

  • Effective interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate within multidisciplinary teams. 

  • Experience in the research or scientific community. 

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.  

Working at ORNL:   

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest U.S. Department of Energy science and energy national laboratory, conducting groundbreaking research in various fields, including materials science, nuclear energy, and biological systems. As an employee at ORNL, you will have access to pioneering facilities, a supportive work environment, and opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. 

Join our versatile team of scientists and engineers and contribute to groundbreaking research and innovation at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Apply today! 

Benefits at ORNL:   

We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain hardworking people! The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience. 

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, and Employee Discounts.  

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov 

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This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.


ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.


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