American Tool - Machine Shop Assistant

Machine Shop Assistant / Shop Helper 

Location: Lincoln, RI, USA 

Job Type: Full-Time / Part-Time (e.g., 40 hours/week, Monday - Friday) 

Pay Rate: $18.00 - $24.00 per hour (DOE) 

About the Company

We are a growing, fast-paced precision machining/manufacturing shop located in the Lincoln area. We specialize in custom parts, prototyping, and high-volume production for the aerospace, industrial, and commercial sectors. We are looking for a reliable, hands-on Machine Shop Assistant to join our team. Position Summary The Machine Shop Assistant will work directly under the supervision of the Shop Supervisor and alongside experienced CNC and manual machinists. This role is a mix of material handling, basic machine operation, and quality control. It is an excellent opportunity to learn the trade and grow into a full Machinist role. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Machine Operation & Setup: Assist machinists by loading raw materials, deburring finished parts, and operating basic shop equipment (e.g., cut-off saws). 
• Quality Control: Use precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, and gauges) to check parts for defects and verify they meet blueprint tolerances. 
• Material Handling: Safely transport raw materials, tooling, and finished parts throughout the shop using pallet jacks or forklifts. 
• Tooling & Inventory: Assist with organizing tooling cabinets and maintaining inventory of shop supplies. 
• Shop Maintenance: Clean and maintain work areas, empty hoppers/chip bins, and perform light preventive maintenance on machines.
• Safety: Strictly adhere to all safety protocols, including wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). 

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent (Vocational technical schooling is a plus). 
• Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a manufacturing or machine shop environment is ideal, but basic mechanical aptitude and a willingness to learn are most important. 
• Physical Demands: Must be able to stand for extended periods, bend, kneel, and safely lift/move up to 50 lbs. 
• Skills: Basic mathematical skills and the ability to read and interpret simple blueprints.
• Work Ethic: Strong attention to detail, highly reliable, and ability to thrive in a team-oriented, fast-paced setting. 

Benefits & Perks 

• Competitive hourly pay 
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match  
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
• On-the-job training and career advancement opportunities