Hiring Machinists in 2025: What Today’s Tradespeople Want From Employers

If you're running a machine shop in 2025, you already know how tough it is to find skilled machinists. It's not just about finding someone who can run a CNC machine anymore. You’re competing with other shops, other industries, and even other trades. The hiring landscape has changed, and the same old strategies aren’t cutting it.

So what do today’s machinists really want? Let’s take a closer look at what matters most to skilled tradespeople this year and how your shop can stand out.

The Skilled Trades Shortage Isn’t Going Anywhere

Across North America, machine shops are struggling to fill open positions. Older machinists are retiring, and not enough younger workers are stepping in to replace them. Some shops are waiting weeks or even months to find the right fit, and in the meantime, production slows down.

According to industry reports, a majority of manufacturers say the labor shortage is directly impacting their ability to grow. But despite the challenges, some shops are doing better than others at attracting good people. What are they doing differently? They’re paying attention to what machinists actually care about.

What Skilled Tradespeople Want From Employers

1. Fair Pay and Straightforward Expectations

Wages are still one of the biggest factors, especially with the cost of living going up. Experienced machinists know what their skills are worth, and they’re comparing offers. But it’s not just about how much you pay. It’s about being upfront about what you’re offering, and what you expect in return.

Make your pay range clear. If there’s room for growth or bonuses, say that too. It builds trust early on.

2. Updated Equipment and Good Tooling

No one wants to work in a shop where the machines are breaking down or the tools are worn out. When your tooling is up to date and your machines are in good shape, it shows that you take the work seriously. It also makes the job safer and less frustrating.

If you’re using well-known brands or high-quality systems, mention them in your job postings. It can make a difference.

3. A Schedule That Makes Sense

Work-life balance isn’t just a buzzword anymore. Some machinists still want the overtime, but many are looking for stable hours and time to spend with their families. Long, unpredictable shifts can be a deal-breaker.

If you offer a steady schedule or allow for flexible shifts, be clear about that. Even small changes, like rotating weekends or offering a long weekend every few weeks, can help.

4. A Chance to Learn and Move Up

Machinists want to know there’s a path forward. Maybe they want to move into programming, setup, or supervisory roles. Maybe they want to get better at what they already do.

If your shop offers any sort of training or cross-skilling, talk about it. Let applicants know you’re willing to invest in their growth.

5. A Shop Culture That Respects the Work

This one’s big. Tradespeople want to work in places where they’re respected. That means treating people like professionals, listening to their ideas, and not letting toxic attitudes take over the floor.

Culture is hard to define in a job posting, but you can highlight it in how you talk about your team, how you respond to applications, and what current employees say about working for you.

Smarter Ways to Recruit Machinists in 2025

If you're struggling to hire, take a look at where and how you’re looking.

Use more than just job boards.
While sites like Indeed still work, many tradespeople are active in Facebook groups, Reddit forums, and even LinkedIn. Younger machinists are also watching shop tours and behind-the-scenes content on TikTok or Instagram.

Connect with local trade schools.
Building relationships with community colleges or tech schools can lead to apprenticeships, co-op placements, or long-term hires.

Show them the shop.
If your workspace is clean, well-lit, and full of quality equipment, show it off. A short video walk-through or even a few good photos on your website or social media can go a long way.

The Bottom Line

Hiring machinists in 2025 isn’t easy, but it’s not impossible either. It starts with understanding what today’s tradespeople care about: fair pay, quality tools, a solid schedule, room to grow, and a place where they feel respected.

If you can offer those things—and communicate them clearly—you’ll be in a much better position to attract and keep great people.