Careers & Apprenticeships

Step into a legacy of craftsmanship with careers and apprenticeships at Advanced Machine & Engineering.

Welcome to Life at AME

At AME, precision isn’t just what we build; it’s how we work together. From day one, you’ll join a team that values craftsmanship, collaboration, and personal growth.

Why You'll Love Working Here

  • Hands-On Innovation | Collaborate with engineers and machinists to design and prototype next-gen fixtures and tooling. Your ideas aren’t just sketches—they become real components powering major manufacturers.
  • Clear Growth Pathways | Many of our leaders started on the shop floor. Through mentorship, internal training programs, and tuition support, you chart your own career—from operator to supervisor to engineering roles.
  • Supportive Community | Regular lunch-and-learns, team brainstorming sessions, and quarterly social events keep us connected. We celebrate milestones—both big and small.
  • Comprehensive Benefits | Health, dental, and vision plans; 401(k) match; paid time off; wellness initiatives; performance bonuses; and opportunities for continuous learning.
  • Flexible & Inclusive | Whether you’re in machining or the office, we foster an environment where diverse perspectives drive innovation. We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

How to Join Us

Looking to launch or level up your career? AME has opportunities at every stage. See our open positions and pick the one that sparks you. At AME, our products mirror our collective craftsmanship—and our careers mirror our belief in people. Want to help shape manufacturing’s future? Let’s get in touch.

1

Submit Your Resume

Please submit your resume to AME Human Resources:

Email: sarahconley@ame.com
Fax: 866-213-2379

In person or by mail: 
Advanced Machine & Engineering
ATTN: Human Resources
2500 Latham Street
Rockford, IL 61103

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

2

Interview & Tour

Meet key team members, see our facilities, and share your ideas.

During your interview, we focus on your skills and mindset. Dress neat and comfortable—think smart-casual.

Be ready to discuss past projects or hands-on experiences.

Questions? Drop us a note via phone or email; we’re here to help you prepare.

3

Your Future at AME

We’ll guide you through the next steps, from paperwork to your first day on the floor. You’ll be supported by mentors who’ve risen through the ranks themselves, guiding you from day one toward leadership milestones.

As part of our family, you’ll collaborate with experienced colleagues who champion your development and share in your successes. Together, we’ll shape the next generation of American manufacturing—and your career will be at the heart of it.

The AME Culture

Step into a day at AME: teammates collaborating on the shop floor, sharing ideas in huddles, and celebrating small wins together. The video captures moments of hands-on problem solving, mentorship in action, and genuine care for each other and our community. It reflects a culture where faith, learning, and integrity guide how we work—and where every part we make and every relationship we build points to something bigger than ourselves.

Our Core Values

  • God Honoring | Our purpose goes beyond profit; the things we make point to our Maker.

  • Compassionate & Giving | We care for our community and each other, believing that generosity blesses everyone.

  • Mutual Respect | Respect flows both ways—with customers, colleagues, and partners—so every voice is valued.

  • Continuous Learning | Our current state is our worst state; we embrace challenges as opportunities to grow and innovate.

  • Unyielding Integrity | We do the right thing, even when it’s easier to look the other way, holding ourselves accountable always.

  • Servant Leadership | Leaders roll up their sleeves and invest in the next generation, sharing knowledge and guidance.

  • Pursuit of Excellence | Instead of chasing perfection, we strive for excellence in craftsmanship, process, and personal growth every day.

Shane Hatfield

"One of the most rewarding aspects of my time at AME has been the ability to evolve with the company. Starting as an Application Engineer and now leading business development for our fluid power division, I've seen first hand how AME invests in its people and encourages growth."

Employed with AME since 2006

Shane Hatfield, Fluid Power - Business Development Leader
Shane Hatfield
Steve Schubert

“AME is the land of opportunity for anyone committed to a career in the metal working industry. Invest in AME, and AME will invest in you.”

Steve Schubert
Steve Schubert
Colleen Tryggestad

"My career at AME started as a part time office clerk after school back in 1994 and I have done many different jobs over the years. I have moved up from receptionist, to Customer Service rep for all product lines at one time or another, to now being Customer service lead/Accounts Receivable Specialist.

AME has taught me many valuable business operations and has always made me feel like family. "

- Colleen Tryggestad, Customer Service Lead/Accounts Receivable Specialist
Colleen Tryggestad

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS FOR METAL FABRICATION AND WELDERS

GET PAID TO BUILD YOUR FUTURE!

If you learn best by doing, you’ll fit right in at AME. We value education, but we also believe true craftsmen and women are not made in the classroom. AME apprentices work side-by-side with industry veterans to learn practical machining skills in our factory. They also attend weekly classes outside the shop to learn the latest manufacturing technology.

APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING PROGRAM DETAILS

GET PAID TO LEARN | Our apprenticeship program is a paid program, with incremental increases as you become more proficient.

RECEIVE FULL BENEFITS | While enrolled in our apprenticeship program you’ll receive full benefits just as you would if you were a full-time employee.

CONVENIENT WORK / STUDY PLAN | One evening class per week at Rock Valley College (RVC), while working full-time at AME gaining real life experience.

CLASSES ARE PAID FOR | We value your education and future, which is why all classes through this program are paid for by AME.

FEDERALLY RECOGNIZED | Our program is certified by the U.S. Department of Labor.

  • Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Programming
  • Materials Sciences
  • Feeds and Speeds
  • Milling, Drilling, and Turning Processes

  • Mathematics for Machine Technology I
  • Blueprint Interpretation
  • Metal Cutting Applications
  • Metrology
  • CNC/CAM Operations
  • Introduction to Welding
  • Graphics/SolidWords CAD I