1

Volunteer Cnc Machine Shop Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

CNC Milling Machinist

Green Bay, WI ยท On-site

$27 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

... machine shop in business for 25 years, and specializing in precision machining, fabrication ... Write or make basic CNC programs (Mazatrol) for new setups; modify existing programs as needed.

Showing results 21-40

Volunteer Cnc Machine Shop information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do volunteer cnc machine shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer cnc machine shop in Appleton, WI is $17.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a volunteer CNC machine shop worker?

Volunteer CNC Machine Shop workers are individuals who offer their time and skills without pay to assist in operating and maintaining CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machinery in a workshop setting. These volunteers may help with tasks such as setting up machines, fabricating parts, performing routine maintenance, or supporting training and educational activities. Their work is often essential for community organizations, makerspaces, educational institutions, or non-profits that rely on CNC technology but may have limited staffing or funding. Volunteers typically have a background in machining or are eager to learn about CNC operations while contributing to a good cause.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as a volunteer in a CNC machine shop?

As a volunteer in a CNC machine shop, you can expect to assist with a variety of tasks such as operating CNC machines under supervision, setting up materials, performing routine maintenance, and supporting quality checks on finished parts. You'll likely collaborate closely with experienced machinists and engineers, gaining hands-on exposure to programming, tooling changes, and troubleshooting. This role is a great opportunity to build practical skills, learn about safety protocols, and contribute to team-based manufacturing projects. Volunteers often help with both production runs and prototype work, depending on the shop's needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a volunteer CNC machine shop worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Volunteer CNC Machine Shop worker, you need basic mechanical aptitude, familiarity with manufacturing processes, and a foundational understanding of CNC machining principles, often supported by relevant vocational training or coursework. Experience with CNC programming software (such as G-code), machine operation, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These skills ensure precise, safe, and efficient operation of machinery, contributing to the overall success of the shop.

What is the difference between Volunteer Cnc Machine Shop vs Cnc Machinist?

AspectVolunteer Cnc Machine ShopCnc Machinist
CredentialsOften no formal certifications required, volunteer-basedTypically requires technical certifications or training
Work EnvironmentCommunity workshops, non-profit settingsManufacturing facilities, industrial settings
Employer & IndustryNon-profit organizations, hobbyist groupsManufacturing companies, industrial sectors
Search & Comparison IntentVolunteering, hobbyist CNC workProfessional CNC machining careers

Volunteer Cnc Machine Shop roles focus on community service and hobbyist projects, often without formal credentials, in non-profit environments. Cnc Machinist positions are professional roles requiring certifications, working in industrial settings. The main difference lies in the scope, environment, and credential requirements, with volunteer roles emphasizing community involvement and professional roles emphasizing industry standards.

How to get into volunteer CNC machine shop with no experience?

To join a volunteer CNC machine shop with no experience, start by learning basic machining concepts and safety procedures through online tutorials or community classes. Many shops welcome beginners and may offer on-the-job training; demonstrating enthusiasm and a willingness to learn can improve your chances of getting involved. Gaining familiarity with CNC software and tools can also be beneficial before volunteering.

What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Volunteer Cnc Machine Shop jobs?

Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Volunteer Cnc Machine Shop job openings:

CNC Milling Machinist

SMS

Green Bay, WI โ€ข On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Milling Machinist

Reputable, well-respected and trusted welding and machine shop in business for 25 years, and specializing in precision machining, fabrication, welding, waterjet, and laser cutting, has an opportunity for an experienced milling machinist to contribute to the success of our organization. We take on the challenging, tight-tolerance work that demands real skill, and we build teams of people who take pride in that.


Reporting to the president, the milling machinist will be responsible for setting up and operating manual and CNC milling equipment to produce precision components for a wide range of industrial customers. Our machinists work in a clean, climate-controlled shop on well-maintained equipment, and they're rewarded for it competitive pay, a profit-sharing incentive program , and a company that puts employees and their families first.


Essential responsibilities


Set up and operate manual and CNC vertical/horizontal milling machines to produce parts per print.

Select and install appropriate tooling, work holding, speeds, and feeds for each job.

Write or make basic CNC programs (Mazatrol) for new setups; modify existing programs as needed.

Perform first-article setup approval before running production quantities.

Run multi-operation jobs requiring multiple setups, fixtures, or datum shifts.


Quality & Inspection

  • Read and interpret mechanical drawings, GD&T callouts, and work orders with full proficiency.
  • Inspect parts using precision instruments.
  • Perform in-process checks to catch deviations before they become scrap.
  • Execute deburring and finishing operations to meet surface finish requirements.
  • Document inspection results and communicate non-conformances to the supervisor promptly.


Troubleshooting & Problem Solving

  • Diagnose and resolve machining issues, chatter, tool wear, dimensional drift, and surface finish problems.
  • Make real-time adjustments to toolpaths, offsets, and setups to maintain tolerance compliance.
  • Collaborate with teammates and supervisors to find solutions on challenging or first-run parts.


Maintenance & Safety

  • Perform routine preventative maintenance on milling equipment to minimize downtime.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation at all times.
  • Follow all shop safety protocols including PPE, machine guarding, and lockout/tagout procedures.
  • Report equipment issues or wear patterns before they become failures.


Essential Qualifications

  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical blueprints and GD&T without assistance
  • Proficiency with precision measuring instruments: micrometers, calipers, indicators
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing work right the first time
  • Physically capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and standing for extended periods
  • Dependable, team-oriented, and motivated to grow


Preferred

  • 2+ years of milling experience in a job shop or manufacturing environment
  • CNC milling experience — setup, operation, and basic program editing
  • Familiarity with Mazak, or similar CNC machining centers
  • Experience with multi-axis milling or complex fixture
  • Machinist training, vocational certification, or apprenticeship program completion

What Makes This Role Stand Out

No two weeks are the same. You'll work on a wide variety of parts, materials, and customer applications. That variety keeps skilled machinists sharp and engaged. Add in a clean, climate-controlled environment, a Monday–Friday schedule, and a team that genuinely cares about doing good work, and this is the kind of shop that serious machinists don't want to leave.


Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Short and long-term disability
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Competitive pay
  • Annual profit-sharing bonus
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Paid lunch break
  • Clean, fully climate-controlled shop


Work Location: In person