Shop slang for side work done for yourself, such as a part for your truck, a gift or a tool, using the employer's machines and often its scrap. Some shops tolerate it after hours with permission, others fire people for it. The British equivalent is a homer, and some places call it a G-job.
Heard on the job
That's a nice bottle opener, government job? Make sure the boss sees it before he hears about it.
Insider tip
Ask first; a harmless homer in one shop is grounds for dismissal in the next.
Also heard as
- G-job
- homer
- foreigner
Related terms
Shop rat
Someone who practically lives in the shop, on the clock or off, and is happiest at a machine.
Unobtainium
Shop joke for a part or material that is impossible or absurdly expensive to get.
Guys on the tools
The tradespeople actually doing the hands-on work, as opposed to supervisors, planners and office staff.