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Apprentice Sheet Metal Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Santa Ana, CA

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Completion of apprenticeship, vocational program, or military MOS in sheet metal (e.g., Navy HT, DC, or equivalent) * Background in aerospace, defense, or AS9100 / ISO 9001 environments * Experience ...

Anduril Industries

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Completion of apprenticeship, vocational program, or military MOS in sheet metal (e.g., Navy HT, DC, or equivalent) * Background in aerospace, defense, or AS9100 / ISO 9001 environments * Experience ...

Flex Ltd

Structural Welder

Fontana, CA

$21.96 - $29.64/hr

... the framing for sheet metal enclosure buildings using welding equipment and techniques. This ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship OR 2+ years' experience in dual shield welding process

Crown Technical Systems

Structural Welder

Fontana, CA

$21.96 - $29.64/hr

... the framing for sheet metal enclosure buildings using welding equipment and techniques. This ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship OR 2+ years' experience in dual shield welding process

Flex

Structural Welder

Fontana, CA

$21.96 - $29.64/hr

... the framing for sheet metal enclosure buildings using welding equipment and techniques. This ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship OR 2+ years' experience in dual shield welding process

Flex Ltd

Structural Welder

Fontana, CA · On-site

$21.96 - $29.64/hr

... the framing for sheet metal enclosure buildings using welding equipment and techniques. This ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship OR 2+ years' experience in dual shield welding process

Flex Ltd

Structural Welder (2nd Shift)

Fontana, CA · On-site

$21.96 - $29.64/hr

... the framing for sheet metal enclosure buildings using welding equipment and techniques. This ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship OR 2+ years' experience in dual shield welding process

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All JobsApprentice Sheet Metal JobsApprentice Sheet Metal Jobs in Riverside, CA

Apprentice Sheet Metal information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$20

$28

How much do apprentice sheet metal jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice sheet metal in Riverside, CA is $20.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

Among apprenticeship trades, electrical and plumbing apprenticeships tend to offer some of the highest wages, especially in industries with high demand for skilled workers. These programs often lead to well-paying careers in construction, manufacturing, or maintenance, with opportunities to earn certifications and increase earnings over time.

What is the difference between Apprentice Sheet Metal vs Journeyman Sheet Metal?

AspectApprentice Sheet MetalJourneyman Sheet Metal
CredentialsTypically in training, may have basic certificationsCompleted apprenticeship, holds journeyman license or certification
Work EnvironmentUnder supervision, learning on the jobIndependent, experienced in installing, fabricating, and repairing
Industry UsageEntry-level, gaining skills in construction and HVAC projectsFull responsibility for projects, supervising apprentices

The main difference between Apprentice Sheet Metal and Journeyman Sheet Metal lies in experience and certification. Apprentices are in training and work under supervision, while journeymen are fully qualified professionals capable of handling projects independently.

How much do apprentice sheet metal workers make?

Apprentice sheet metal workers typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, with wages increasing as they gain experience and complete training programs. Starting salaries may be lower, but apprentices often receive on-the-job training and may earn certifications that can lead to higher pay.

Is 26 too old for an apprenticeship?

Apprentice sheet metal workers can be of any age, including 26, as apprenticeships are open to adults seeking to learn the trade. Age is generally not a barrier, and many programs welcome mature students who bring life experience and motivation. Skills such as attention to detail and physical fitness are important regardless of age.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Sheet Metal Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Sheet Metal Worker, you need basic math skills, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or GED, often supplemented by enrollment in an apprenticeship program. Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and equipment like shears, brakes, and computer-aided design (CAD) systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, physical stamina, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring precise fabrication, safety, and effective collaboration on construction or manufacturing projects.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice sheet metal workers, and how can they be overcome?

As an apprentice sheet metal worker, you may encounter challenges such as learning to interpret complex blueprints, mastering precise measurements, and safely handling various tools and machinery. It can also be demanding to adapt to working in different environments, which may involve heights or confined spaces. Overcoming these challenges usually involves asking questions, seeking feedback from experienced journeymen, and committing to ongoing hands-on practice. Building strong communication with your team and prioritizing safety will also support your professional growth and help you succeed in this role.

What are Apprentice Sheet Metal Workers?

Apprentice Sheet Metal Workers are individuals learning the trade of fabricating, installing, and repairing products made from thin metal sheets. They work under the supervision of experienced journeymen, gaining hands-on experience in tasks such as cutting, bending, and assembling sheet metal for projects like ductwork, roofing, and siding. Apprenticeships typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, covering topics like blueprint reading, welding, and safety practices. These programs usually last 4-5 years and prepare apprentices for a skilled career in the sheet metal industry.

How to get started in sheet metal work?

To start as an apprentice in sheet metal work, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some programs require passing basic math and reading tests. Apprenticeship programs, often sponsored by unions or trade schools, combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and usually last 3-4 years. Developing skills in blueprint reading, hand tools, and safety procedures is essential for success in this field.

What Does a Sheet Metal Apprentice Do?

A sheet metal apprentice works as an understudy to an experienced sheet metal worker to learn the skills necessary to become a master sheet metal worker. This construction-related position is focused on the various methods of forming, cutting, and fastening sheet metal products. Your job duties include learning to use sheet metal cutting equipment, physically hauling materials, and inspecting the sheet metal equipment. You perform a number of tasks that both help the master sheet metal worker and provide you with valuable work experience.

More about Apprentice Sheet Metal jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Sheet Metal jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Sheet Metal jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Sheet Metal jobs in Riverside, CA? For Apprentice Sheet Metal jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Sheet Metal jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Sheet Metal jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Apprentice Sheet Metal jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Apprentice Sheet Metal job openings:
Apprentice Sheet Metal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Sheet Metal job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,810 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Sheet Metal Fabricator

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Anduril Industries

Santa Ana, CA

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lay out, cut, form, and fabricate sheet metal components from engineering drawings using various shop equipment and tools.

  • Fit, install, and align fabricated components such as ventilation systems, furniture, and structural items into maritime structures.

  • Perform sheet metal welding, joining, and preparation activities on various metals, and complete required documentation and inspections.

Anduril rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Sheet Metal FabricatorAbout the RoleAs a Sheet Metal Fabricator, you'll fabricate, form, and install the sheet metal components that outfit maritime vessels: ventilation ductwork, structural foundations and brackets, bulkhead liners, furniture (bunks, lockers, cabinets), ladders, handrails, and wet-space linings. You'll work from the shop floor to the structure: laying out from drawings, cutting and forming on shears, brakes, and rolls, then fitting and installing into compartments. The work spans thin-gauge stainless and aluminum ductwork to heavier structural brackets and foundations.What You'll Do
Fabrication
  • Lay out, mark, cut, and form sheet metal components from engineering drawings, sketches, and templates
  • Operate shears, press brakes, rolls, hand brakes, notchers, and nibblers to form parts to drawing tolerances
  • Cut material using plasma arc, laser, shears, and hand tools
  • Fabricate ventilation ductwork: transitions, elbows, tees, plenums, and damper assemblies
  • Fabricate structural components: foundations, brackets, equipment bases, stiffeners, and coamings
  • Build furniture and outfit items: bunks, lockers, cabinets, shelving, ladders, handrails, and enclosures
  • Drill, ream, countersink, and deburr holes for fasteners, rivets, and hardware
  • Operate CNC fabrication equipment (plasma tables, laser cutters, CNC press brakes) where available: load programs, set up material, verify first articles
Installation & Fit-Up
  • Fit and install fabricated components into maritime structures: ventilation systems, liners, foundations, furniture, and outfit items
  • Scribe, trim, and adjust parts to achieve proper fit against hull curvature, frames, and adjacent structure
  • Install using mechanical fasteners (rivets, screws, bolts), adhesives, and gaskets per procedure
  • Set up and align components using levels, squares, plumb bobs, and laser alignment tools
  • Work with riggers and crane operators to position and install larger assemblies
Welding & Joining
  • Perform sheet metal welding on stainless steel, aluminum, carbon steel, and copper-nickel as required
  • Perform spot welding, resistance welding, and brazing where specified
  • Prep joints: clean, fit, tack, and maintain proper gap and alignment for weld quality
  • Maintain weld certifications as required by program and material
Quality & Documentation
  • Complete hardcopy and electronic documentation: fabrication travelers, inspection records, material traceability
  • Verify dimensions against drawings using tape measures, calipers, protractors, radius gauges, and templates
  • Maintain compliance with NAVSEA standards, military specifications, and workmanship requirements
  • Identify non-conformances and process through proper disposition channels
  • Prepare completed work for company, customer, and government inspections
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • 5+ years of sheet metal fabrication experience: industrial, shipbuilding, or manufacturing environments
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, sketches, and GD&T
  • Proficiency with layout and shop math - geometry, trigonometry, material allowances, bend calculations
  • Experience operating shears, press brakes, rolls, and standard sheet metal shop equipment
  • Experience with material cutting: plasma, shears, or hand methods
  • Ability to fit and install fabricated components to tight tolerances
  • Proficiency with precision measuring tools: tape measures, calipers, protractors, angle finders, templates
  • Willing to work any shift and overtime as production requires
  • U.S. Person status (ITAR requirement)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with CNC plasma tables, CNC laser cutters, or CNC press brakes (operation and/or programming)
  • GTAW (TIG) welding capability on stainless steel, aluminum, and/or copper-nickel
  • Military shipbuilding, submarine, or naval shipyard experience
  • Experience fabricating and installing ventilation ductwork to military standards
  • Familiarity with NAVSEA technical publications, MIL-STDs, and naval drawing standards
  • Completion of apprenticeship, vocational program, or military MOS in sheet metal (e.g., Navy HT, DC, or equivalent)
  • Background in aerospace, defense, or AS9100 / ISO 9001 environments
  • Experience with furniture and outfit fabrication: bunks, lockers, cabinets, enclosures
Physical Requirements
  • Lift up to 50 lbs regularly and 75 lbs occasionally
  • Stand, bend, kneel, crawl, and work overhead for extended periods
  • Work at heights (ladders, scaffolding) and in confined spaces
  • Work in shop and shipboard environments with exposure to noise, sharp edges, grinding dust, and variable temperatures
  • Maintain color vision adequate for material identification and weld inspection
Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

Social media

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