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Apprentice Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Milling Machine Machinist 1

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Requires completion of a formal apprenticeship or equivalent training and experience. Exclude general, all-around machinists and operators who do not perform own setups or determine sequence of ...

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... apprenticeship in CNC machining preferred Schedule * 5:00pm to 5:00am * 4x10 schedule with OT Required Experience • 3-5 years of experience operating CNC machines • Hands-on experience with 3 ...

Be Seen First

... apprenticeship in CNC machining preferred Schedule * 5:00pm to 5:00am * 4x10 schedule with OT Required Experience • 3-5 years of experience operating CNC machines • Hands-on experience with 3 ...

Job Title: Machine Operator (Thursday- Saturday, alternating Wednesdays, 5:00 PM- 5:00 AM ... High school diploma/GED and completion of a craft apprenticeship, or an equivalent number of years ...

Senior Manual Machinist

Benicia, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $34.75/hr

... at Conhagen's machine shop. Serve as a technical resource for complex issues. Knowledge ... Train apprentice machinists Distribute work and manage the department in the absence of the ...

Senior Manual Machinist

Benicia, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $34.75/hr

... at Conhagen's machine shop. Serve as a technical resource for complex issues. Knowledge ... Train apprentice machinists Distribute work and manage the department in the absence of the ...

Completion of a formal machining apprenticeship or equivalent training/experience preferred. * Experience operating manual and/or CNC milling machines required. * Ability to perform machine setups ...

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Apprentice Machine Operator information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Machine Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes training in CNC or automated systems is typically required. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this position. These competencies are essential for maintaining production efficiency, ensuring safety, and supporting smooth operations on the manufacturing floor.

What are some common challenges faced by Apprentice Machine Operators during their training period?

Apprentice Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced environment of a manufacturing floor and learning to troubleshoot machinery under supervision. Mastering safety protocols and understanding the technical nuances of different machines can be demanding at first. Additionally, apprentices must develop effective communication skills to collaborate with experienced operators and maintenance staff, as teamwork is essential for smooth production. However, with hands-on training and mentorship, most apprentices quickly gain confidence and proficiency in their role.

What is an Apprentice Machine Operator?

An Apprentice Machine Operator is an entry-level worker who is learning how to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot industrial machines under the supervision of experienced operators. Apprentices often work in manufacturing or production settings, where they receive hands-on training and guidance to develop the necessary skills for machine operation. Their tasks typically include setting up machines, monitoring equipment during operation, performing basic maintenance, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Over time, apprentices gain the knowledge and experience needed to become fully qualified machine operators.

What is the difference between Apprentice Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectApprentice Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly some certificationsTypically requires a high school diploma and relevant certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksFull responsibility for operating machinery in manufacturing or production settings
Experience LevelEntry-level, learning phaseExperienced, capable of independently operating machinery

The Apprentice Machine Operator is in a training phase, gaining skills under supervision, while the Machine Operator is fully responsible for operating equipment independently. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career in machine operation by providing hands-on experience and certifications needed for full roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice Machine Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Apprentice Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Machine Operator job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Milling Machine Machinist 1

Milling Machine Machinist 1

Chipton Ross

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Job #218292
Chipton-Ross is seeking a Milling Machine Machinist 1 for a contract opportunity in Palmdale, CA.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE)
  • High school diploma/ GED and 0-5 years' experience.
  • Knowledge of automated machinery.
  • Ability to work any shift.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Looking for a Milling Machine Machinist 1 to support our Tooling department.
Responsibilities
Sets up and operates plain or universal, horizontal, or vertical milling machines to perform machining operations such as compound angles and contours; boring compound angular holes; doing helical and spiral milling; serrating; and gear, spline, and keyway cutting to exacting tolerances. Selects, mounts, and aligns various specialized machine attachments and standard or improvised tooling; plans sequence of operations, number of cuts required, and method of setup; determines, sets, and adjusts speeds, feeds, and depth of cut; interprets blueprints, sketches, and engineering specifications; uses a variety of machinist hand tools and precision measuring instruments; makes standard shop computations; and measures, marks, and scribes dimensions and reference points to lay out stock for machining. May monitor and verify quality in accordance with statistical process or other control procedures. Requires completion of a formal apprenticeship or equivalent training and experience. Exclude general, all-around machinists and operators who do not perform own setups or determine sequence of operations.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (DESIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE)
  • Machinist experience.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be able to perform moderate strenuous physical and repetitious work to include: bending, stooping, kneeling, carrying tools, lifting up to 50 pounds and working overhead.

REQUIRED EDUCATION
High School Diploma/GED is required.
School must be accredited.
WORK HOURS
Full-Time 4/10 workweek. This position will serve on-site at Palmdale CA.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  • Employment will be contingent on clearing a drug screen and background check. Both must clear prior to start date.
  • Candidates responding to this posting must currently possess the eligibility to work in the United States. No third parties please.

For more information, please apply or contact:
Brent Sizemore 800.927.9318 x185
bsizemore@chiptonross.com
Chipton-Ross provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, State or local law. This policy governs all areas of employment at Chipton-Ross, including recruiting, hiring, training, assignment, promotions, compensation, benefits, discipline, and terminations.

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About Chipton-Ross

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chipton-Ross, based in El Segundo, California, is a leading provider of staffing and recruitment services in the US. The company is renowned for its specialization in fields like engineering, information technology, aircraft manufacturing, and other technical industries. Founded in 1983, Chipton-Ross has grown to become a recognized name in the national recruitment arena with a reputation for integrity, quality, and excellence in management. The company's mission is to provide cost-effective staffing solutions that allow their clients to maximize the power of their people, enhancing both perspective and productivity.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

El Segundo, CA, US

Year founded

1983