Apprentice Machine Operator Jobs in Santa Ana, CA

Job Title:                Lead Machinist                                                    Job Status:                        Full Time

Department:        Machining                                                             Reports To:                       Machine Shop Manager

FLSA Status:          Non-Exempt                                                        Travel Requirements:   NA

Work Schedule: 6:00 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.                                      Work Location:                Santa Ana, CA

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Lead Machinist will serve as a technical expert and working leader on the shop floor, responsible for setting up and operating equipment, mentoring junior machinists, and ensuring quality standards are met. This role is vital to producing high-precision components and tooling that meet aerospace specifications while maintaining productivity and process consistency.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

·         Set up, program (when required), and operate manual and CNC equipment including mills, lathes, routers, and grinders to machine composite tooling and hardware components.

·         Interpret engineering drawings, work instructions, and CAD models to ensure accurate machining of complex geometries to tight tolerances.

·         Monitor machining processes, inspect parts using precision measuring tools, and make necessary adjustments to maintain dimensional accuracy.

·         Train and mentor apprentice and junior machinists, providing guidance on best practices, safety, and proper use of equipment.

·         Troubleshoot and resolve machining issues, collaborating with engineering and manufacturing teams to optimize tool paths, fixturing, and workholding strategies.

·         Ensure machine and tool maintenance schedules are followed, and perform minor maintenance or repairs as needed to minimize downtime.

·         Maintain an organized and efficient work area following lean manufacturing principles including 5S and continuous improvement.

·         Track job progress and communicate updates on workflow, bottlenecks, or tooling needs to the production supervisor or operations team.

·         Assist with fixture and tooling development for custom composite layup molds or production hardware.

·         Uphold the highest standards for quality, safety, and compliance with company and aerospace industry protocols.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

·         Extensive experience as a machinist in a high-precision manufacturing environment, preferably with exposure to composite tooling or aerospace components.

·         Strong proficiency with manual and CNC machinery; experience with HAAS, Fadal, or similar controls is preferred.

·         Ability to read and interpret GD&T, blueprints, and engineering documentation.

·         Proficient with precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, and height gauges.

·         Demonstrated ability to lead by example, train others, and contribute to a team-oriented environment.

·         Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.

COMPETENCIES:

Technical Mastery: Advanced knowledge of machining practices, materials (including aluminum, steel, and composite tooling board), and CNC operations.

Leadership & Mentorship: Ability to coach junior machinists, enforce quality standards, and lead with professionalism on the shop floor.

Quality Focus: Commitment to producing parts that meet or exceed aerospace-level tolerances and specifications.

Problem Solving: Skilled in diagnosing and resolving machining challenges and improving manufacturing efficiency.

Process Discipline: Adheres to SOPs, work instructions, and safety protocols, while contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training or certifications in machining or CNC operations preferred.

Experience: 5-10 years in a similar role.

§  Preferred specific composites and aerospace industry experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative 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 talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel or crouch; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment is primarily a machine shop setting with exposure to noise, lubricants, and composite dust.

Proper use of PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear is required.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment.

Apex Space and Defense prides itself on delivering the highest quality, large- and small-scale composite structures for our aerospace, defense, and commercial customers. APEX, Santa Ana, has over 50 years of experience from our roots in auto racing through years of supporting aerospace and defense. The key to our success is largely dependent on our dedicated family of hard-working team members with a can-do attitude. We’re currently searching for a Service Technician to join our ranks and continue our tradition of success.