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Prototype Machinist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Machinist (ET2)

King George, VA · On-site

$27.70/hr

Dahlgren's Machine Shop offers exciting/patriotic opportunities to work closely with the United States Navy creating prototypes and short-run production work. All of our Machinists program their ...

Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$61K - $129K/yr

Use your fabrication skills to create prototypes and work with test engineers and production ... Machine components using CNC and manual mills and lathes. * Program, setup, and operate 3- or 4 ...

Machinist

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$61K - $129K/yr

Machinist Job Category: Engineering and Technical Support Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance ... Use your fabrication skills to create prototypes and work with test engineers and production ...

Machinist

Sterling, VA

$61K - $129K/yr

Machinist Job Category: Engineering and Technical Support Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance ... Use your fabrication skills to create prototypes and work with test engineers and production ...

Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$61K - $129K/yr

Use your fabrication skills to create prototypes and work with test engineers and production ... Machine components using CNC and manual mills and lathes. * Program, setup, and operate 3- or 4 ...

Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$61K - $129K/yr

Use your fabrication skills to create prototypes and work with test engineers and production ... Machine components using CNC and manual mills and lathes. * Program, setup, and operate 3- or 4 ...

Machinist (ET2)

King George, VA · On-site

$27.70/hr

Dahlgren's Machine Shop offers exciting/patriotic opportunities to work closely with the United States Navy creating prototypes and short-run production work. All of our Machinists program their ...

Showing results 21-40

Prototype Machinist information

See Virginia salary details

$19

$29

$47

How much do prototype machinist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for prototype machinist in Virginia is $29.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.81 and $32.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a prototype machinist?

A Prototype Machinist is responsible for creating precise, custom, or experimental parts based on design specifications, often for research and development. They use various machining tools like CNC machines, lathes, and mills to fabricate and modify components. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret technical drawings. Prototype Machinists work closely with engineers and designers to refine designs and ensure functionality before full-scale production.

What does a prototype machinist do?

A typical day for a Prototype Machinist involves interpreting technical drawings, setting up and operating machining equipment, and collaborating closely with engineers or product designers to create one-off or small-batch parts. You’ll routinely measure and inspect components, make adjustments on the fly, and document any design or process improvements. Expect a mix of independent hands-on work and teamwork, often in a prototyping lab or machine shop environment. Tight deadlines and evolving specifications mean flexibility and adaptability are key parts of the job, providing variety and opportunities to solve unique challenges daily.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a prototype machinist?

A Prototype Machinist excels with precision machining skills, blueprint reading, and experience operating both manual and CNC machine tools, usually backed by a technical diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, measuring instruments, and sometimes relevant certifications like NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) is essential. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and effective communication skills help machinists collaborate with engineers and adapt to unique, evolving projects. These abilities enable the machinist to accurately fabricate custom prototypes and contribute to successful product development within tight deadlines.

What are the most commonly searched types of Prototype Machinist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Prototype Machinist jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Prototype Machinist jobs in Virginia?

For Prototype Machinist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Prototype Machinist jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Prototype Machinist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Prototype Machinist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Prototype Machinist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Prototype Machinist jobs in VA?

For Prototype Machinist jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Prototype Machinist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,741 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

$27.70/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Program and operate CNC lathes and mills, set up tools, and create fixtures for machining parts according to DoD drawings.

  • Use common measuring tools such as dial calipers and micrometers to inspect machined parts and ensure tight tolerances.

  • Operate saws and occasionally manual lathes and mills to support machining tasks.


Job description

Overview Machinist (Engineering Technician II)(EPFAB-2026-25749): Bowhead is seeking to hire a Machinist to support the Machine Shop at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) in Virginia. Dahlgren’s Machine Shop offers exciting/patriotic opportunities to work closely with the United States Navy creating prototypes and short-run production work. All of our Machinists program their parts, set up, and machine them according to Department of Defense (DoD) drawings and models. We work with many types of materials from aluminum, exotic steels, multiple plastics, and titanium. There is in-house training on SolidWorks and CAMWorks and other opportunities for employees to expand their knowledge and grow in their careers. Tools will be provided by the government. This is a beginner/intermediate Machinist position that requires at least three years of experience. New employees will work closely with more experienced Machinists and leadership until they can work independently. Bowhead offers: Engineering Technician II pay at $27.70 per hour, plus $5.09 per hour for H&W (Health and Welfare) A total of 33 paid days off per year. (Described below) Paid vacation accrued up to 15 days a year. Paid sick leave accrued up to 7 days a year. Paid holidays 11 per year. Up to $175 for safety boots every two years. Up to $5250 for college tuition per year. Up to $5250 for training per year. Prescription safety glasses are provided yearly. 401K matched up to 3%. Responsibilities Machinists are required to program and operate both CNC lathes/mills, set tools in the machines and create fixtures to hold unique parts. Most of the equipment in the shop is either Haas, Fadal, or ProtoTraks and is used daily. Comply with DoD drawings and hold tight tolerances on machined parts. Machinists will operate saws and occasionally use manual lathes and mills. They are expected to use common measuring tools such as dial calipers and micrometers to inspect their parts. Qualifications Must have a high school diploma. Must have at least three (3) years of professional experience operating CNC milling machines and lathes. (Technical training may be considered as experience) Must be able to draw and program using CAD/CAM software. Basic level skills in Microsoft Office software suite - Word, Excel, and Outlook. Have a proficient understanding of reading and interpreting Machinist drawings. Capable of using common precision measuring tools such as dial calipers and micrometers to inspect in-process and completed parts. Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of employees, customers, and management and respond to instructions/assignments. Must be able to read, write, and speak English. Strong interpersonal skills and good judgment with the ability to work alone or as part of a team. Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds. Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged amounts of time. Must be able to twist, bend, and squat periodically. Target salary is $27.70/hour commensurate with experience Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Bowhead considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and business considerations when extending an offer. SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at the Secret level. US Citizenship is a requirement for a Secret clearance at this location.