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Precision Machine Tool Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machine Mechanic

Fife, WA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The Machine Tool Mechanic will perform a wide variety of tasks associated with servicing, repairing, or operation of most CNC machine tools. Use precision test equipment to analyze, troubleshoot, and ...

The Machine Tool Mechanic will perform a wide variety of tasks associated with servicing, repairing, or operation of most CNC machine tools. Use precision test equipment to analyze, troubleshoot, and ...

Machine Mechanic

Fife, WA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The Machine Tool Mechanic will perform a wide variety of tasks associated with servicing, repairing, or operation of most CNC machine tools. Use precision test equipment to analyze, troubleshoot, and ...

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Precision Machine Tool Mechanic information

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$16

$28

$40

How much do precision machine tool mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for precision machine tool mechanic in the United States is $28.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $33.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Precision Machine Tool Mechanic, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Precision Machine Tool Mechanic, you need expertise in mechanical troubleshooting, machine assembly/disassembly, and familiarity with blueprints and technical manuals, often supported by vocational training or an associate degree in industrial maintenance or a related field. Proficiency with measuring instruments (like micrometers and calipers), CNC diagnostic tools, and maintenance management software is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help mechanics diagnose issues accurately and work efficiently with other team members. These skills are crucial for ensuring the reliability, accuracy, and longevity of precision machinery in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges Precision Machine Tool Mechanics face when troubleshooting complex machinery?

Precision Machine Tool Mechanics often encounter challenges related to diagnosing subtle or intermittent mechanical issues, especially in highly specialized or older equipment. Troubleshooting requires a deep understanding of both mechanical and electronic systems, as well as the ability to interpret schematics and technical manuals. Working under tight deadlines to minimize production downtime can also add pressure. Successful mechanics rely on strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with operators and engineers to ensure accurate repairs and ongoing equipment reliability.

What are Precision Machine Tool Mechanics?

Precision Machine Tool Mechanics are skilled technicians who install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair complex machinery used in manufacturing and metalworking, such as lathes, milling machines, and grinders. They ensure that these machines operate accurately and efficiently by calibrating, aligning, and replacing parts as needed. Their work is crucial for industries that rely on precise production standards, as even minor errors in machine function can result in costly defects. Precision Machine Tool Mechanics use a range of tools and diagnostic equipment and often read blueprints or technical manuals to guide their repairs.

What is the difference between Precision Machine Tool Mechanic vs Machinist?

AspectPrecision Machine Tool MechanicMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in machine repairHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in machining
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, repair shops, maintenance facilitiesMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, production environments
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, maintenance companies, industrial facilitiesMachine shops, manufacturing firms, custom fabricators

While both Precision Machine Tool Mechanics and Machinists work with machinery in manufacturing settings, Precision Machine Tool Mechanics focus on repairing, maintaining, and troubleshooting machine tools, ensuring they operate accurately. Machinists primarily operate and set up machines to produce parts. The roles overlap in technical skills and work environments, but their core responsibilities differ, with mechanics emphasizing repair and maintenance, and machinists focusing on production.

More about Precision Machine Tool Mechanic jobs
What states have the most Precision Machine Tool Mechanic jobs? States with the most job openings for Precision Machine Tool Mechanic jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Precision Machine Tool Mechanic jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Precision Machine Tool Mechanic jobs are:
Infographic showing various Precision Machine Tool Mechanic job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $59,566 per year, or $28.6 per hour.
Precision Machine Tool Mechanic

Precision Machine Tool Mechanic

Solar Turbines Incorporated

San Diego, CA • On-site

$26 - $46/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Solar Turbines rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 415 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Career Area:
Operations
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
About the Role:
Perform the maintenance and alignment of precision machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, semi and automatic machines, precision grinders, and numerical control machines.
What You Will Do:
  • Independently troubleshoot, diagnose, and evaluate machine malfunctions
  • Determine the sequence of operations, procedures, and methods necessary to perform precision skilled maintenance functions such as repair, modification, and overhaul of lathes,. mills, semi and automatic machines, precision grinders, numerical control machines
  • Determine and recommend major repairs in order to reestablish manufacturer's tolerances, alignments, etc. Perform functional tests of machines and equipment to determine nature and cause of malfunctions.
  • Plan the sequence of operations and methods to use to disassemble, repair, renew, and/or replace bearings, shafts, gears, and reassemble, and functionally test precision machine tools.
  • Determine and perform precision measurements to achieve alignments required between operating machine components and beds and ways, in and between all functional planes. Determine rematching required for worn parts and layout and prepare sketches of such parts to aid in machining operations.
  • Follow manufacturer's specifications, prints , and maintenance handbooks when available to determine functional requirements of machine components.
  • Set up and operate machine tools to make new or replacement parts. Metal spray shafts, spindles, etc., to build up to required dimensions.
  • Disassemble and determine corrective action required to repair or replace broken parts. Level, lay, scrape, and flake beds and ways to exacting and coordinated tolerances.
  • Fit and scrape bearings; assemble gear trains and fit to exacting tolerances and align spindles, columns, knees, tailstocks, ways, tables, and saddles individually and in required relation to each other.
  • Determine from functional tests that precision machines will meet operating requirements.
  • Perform the work of Maintenance Mechanic-Sr. or Hydraulic and Pneumatic Mechanic as required.

What You Have:
  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
  • Minimum 1 year precision machine maintenance and alignment experience
  • Must be willing to work 2nd shift

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Journeyman card
  • 2+ years of precision machine maintenance and alignment experience

Summary Pay Range:
$26.00 - $46.00
Compensation and benefits may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market, location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Sign on Bonus

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as, H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers.
Posting Dates:
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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