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Apprentice Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Manual Machinist

Santee, CA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

... Machine Operators and Machinists with the goal of improving skills and creating growth ... formal apprenticeship program or completion of in-company, four-year training program to ...

Manual Machinist

Santee, CA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

... Machine Operators and Machinists with the goal of improving skills and creating growth ... formal apprenticeship program or completion of in-company, four-year training program to ...

Manual Machinist

Santee, CA

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Mentoring & Teaching CNC Machine Operators and Machinists Level 1: Regularly work with and monitor ... formal apprenticeship program or completion of in-company, four-year training program to ...

Laser Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$25 - $27.85/hr

You must be skilled in setting up multiple machines, optimizing parameters and ensuring quality ... Successful candidates will be enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program as part of their ...

Blacksmith Apprentice - 2nd Shift

Santa Ana, CA

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Instruct operator of the manipulator forklift. * Operate the billet saw to cut raw material as ... Ability to use and operate equipment and machinery. * Ability to follow specific instructions and ...

Blacksmith Apprentice - 1st Shift

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Instruct operator of the manipulator forklift. * Operate the billet saw to cut raw material as ... Ability to use and operate equipment and machinery. * Ability to follow specific instructions and ...

Blacksmith Apprentice - 1st Shift

Oxnard, CA

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Instruct operator of the manipulator forklift. * Operate the billet saw to cut raw material as ... Ability to use and operate equipment and machinery. * Ability to follow specific instructions and ...

2nd Shift Blacksmith Apprentice

Santa Ana, CA

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Instruct operator of the manipulator forklift. * Operate the billet saw to cut raw material as ... Ability to use and operate equipment and machinery. * Ability to follow specific instructions and ...

Blacksmith Apprentice - 1st Shift

Santa Ana, CA

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

Instruct operator of the manipulator forklift. * Operate the billet saw to cut raw material as ... Ability to use and operate equipment and machinery. * Ability to follow specific instructions and ...

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EDM Machinist

Poway, CA · On-site

$65K/yr

... EDM operator/machinist training program or apprenticeship -- general CNC machinist training without EDM-specific curriculum does not satisfy this requirement • Minimum 3 years of hands-on ...

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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.

$35/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Conventional Machinist $ 30/hr-$35/hr

Department: Production Shop

Reports to: Machine Shop Supervisor

FSLA Status: Non-exempt

Preparation Date: 01/01/2024

Summary: Utilizing Conventional Machine lathe machines, the machinist shape parts from metal or plastic according to the design and specification for Non Destructive Testing systems. This involves reading and interpreting blueprints, sketches and written instructions to assemble the parts or products. To ensure quality, the machinist also looks for faulty components during the assembly process and may be required to test assembled parts or products to ensure functionality by performing the following duties:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Include the following; other duties may be assigned.

• Operate the Conventional Machine that shape parts from metal or plastic.

• Interpret blueprints, manuals and other work instructions, according to the

designs and specifications for the Non Destructive Testing Systems produced

• Study sample parts to determine dimensions of finished work pieces and

Conventional Machine equipment setup requirements.

• Set the machine and load it with the correct cutting tools.

• Inspect work pieces throughout a production run.

• Measure and mark dimensions and reference points on material or work pieces

as a guide for subsequent machining.

• Clean and perform basic preventative maintenance functions on machines,

tooling and parts. Work safely to prevent on-the-job injuries, which includes

wearing personal protective equipment such as safety glasses. Inspect cutting

tools for sharpness and usability and for detect malfunctions using precision

measuring instruments such as micrometers, dial calipers, depth gages,

indicators and scales.

• Communicate with supervisors, engineers, production control employees and

other personnel for assignments, and to resolve machining or quality issues as

well.

Supervisory Responsibilities: This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

Skills and Qualifications

• Able to lift heavy equipment using hoists, hand trucks conveyors and lifts.

• Must have knowledge of tool holders, cutting tools, fixtures and other accessories

used on various machines.

• Must have attention to detail and work independently.

• Must have strong oral and written communication skills, and be able to follow

verbal and written instructions well.

• Having some programming experience have an advantage.

• Must be able to stand for long periods and be adaptable to a changing work

environment as well.

• Must be open to being exposed to noise, fumes and varying temperatures.

• Must be able to perform repetitive motions and must have strong finger dexterity

and food movement.

• Have basic math skills that include geometry and algebra to calculate material fabrication

Education

• Must have at least a high school diploma or GED.

• Completion of an apprenticeship and on-the-job training from a trade school

preferred

• No specific education requirements is needed to become Conventional Machine

operator machinist,

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

None

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representatives of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use

hands to finger, handle or feel or reach with hands and arms and talk or hear.

The employee is required to stand for a prolong period of time; walk or balance

and stoop. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and

occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required

by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision,

depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics descried here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly exposed to

moving mechanical parts, high, precarious places, fumes or airborne particles

and a warehouse setting. The employee is occasionally exposed to toxic or

caustic chemicals; risk of electrical shock and vibration. The noise level is the

work environment is moderate to usually loud.