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Automotive Machine Shop Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Southwestern Industries

Machine Assembler I

Compton, CA · On-site

$18 - $25.20/hr

Qualifications · 1-3 years automotive, machine shop or similar work experience. · Graduate in a machine tool technology program, machinist apprenticeship program or completion of a trade school ...

BBB Automotive

Shop Helper

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The Shop Helper provides essential support to the Service Department by assisting Technicians ... Previous dealership or automotive service experience preferred but not required. * Basic ...

Zoo

Lead Machinist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

You will program, set up, machine, inspect, and troubleshoot parts while helping establish shop ... Experience in aerospace, automotive, hardware startup, or precision manufacturing environments

Atomic Machines

Machinist (7:00am - 3:30pm)

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $32.50/hr

This role supports a 24/7 machine shop operation on a 5-2 schedule, with shift assignments based on ... automotive, or another high precision industry. * Strong experience programming, setting up ...

Long Wall

CNC Machinist

El Segundo, CA

$22 - $26/hr

The Machine Shop Technician will be responsible for learning and executing manufacturing processes ... Experience in aerospace, medical, or automotive manufacturing * Familiarity with Haas CNC machines ...

Long Wall

CNC Machinist

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

The Machine Shop Technician will be responsible for learning and executing manufacturing processes ... Experience in aerospace, medical, or automotive manufacturing * Familiarity with Haas CNC machines ...

Long Wall

CNC Machinist

El Segundo, CA

$22 - $26/hr

The Machine Shop Technician will be responsible for learning and executing manufacturing processes ... Experience in aerospace, medical, or automotive manufacturing * Familiarity with Haas CNC machines ...

Zoo

Lead Machinist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Oversee daily operations of the machine shop, including scheduling, prioritization, workflow ... Experience in aerospace, automotive, hardware startup, or precision manufacturing environments

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Automotive Machine Shop information

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$10

$17

$23

How much do automotive machine shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive machine shop in California is $17.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like working in an automotive machine shop?

A typical day in an automotive machine shop involves inspecting, machining, rebuilding, and assembling automotive engine components such as cylinder heads, blocks, and crankshafts. You will use a variety of precision tools, operate both manual and CNC machines, and frequently consult with team members or customers to clarify job requirements. Tasks may range from diagnosing issues with engine parts to test-fitting components and maintaining shop equipment. Teamwork is essential, as projects often require input from both machinists and mechanics to meet quality and safety standards. This role offers diverse and hands-on work where no two days are exactly the same.

What is an Automotive Machine Shop job?

An Automotive Machine Shop job involves machining, repairing, and rebuilding engine components such as cylinder heads, crankshafts, and engine blocks. Technicians use specialized tools and equipment to resurface, bore, hone, and balance engine parts for optimal performance. These professionals work closely with mechanics and automotive experts to ensure vehicles run efficiently and reliably. Experience with precision measurements, machining processes, and engine assembly is essential in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Automotive Machine Shop position, and why are they important?

Excelling in an Automotive Machine Shop requires expertise in machining, engine rebuilding, and precision measurement, typically backed by technical training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with CNC machines, lathes, grinders, and specialty automotive tools, as well as ASE or machinist certifications, is highly valued. Strong attention to detail, effective teamwork, and good problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for this environment. These qualifications ensure accurate, high-quality work, safety, and smooth collaboration in a demanding shop setting.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automotive Machine Shop jobs in California? The most popular types of Automotive Machine Shop jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Automotive Machine Shop jobs in California? For Automotive Machine Shop jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automotive Machine Shop jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Automotive Machine Shop jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Automotive Machine Shop jobs? Cities in California with the most Automotive Machine Shop job openings:
Automotive Machine Shop jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automotive Machine Shop job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,360 per year, or $18 per hour.

Machine Shop Technician

KETT ENGINEERING CORPORATION

Gardena, CA

$40 - $42/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
Kett Engineering is a well-established leader in the automotive testing industry with over 60 years of experience. We pride ourselves on our dedicated team of professionals committed to delivering high-quality testing, development, and staffing solutions for automotive manufacturers and suppliers.
Background

You will be part of a team at a machine shop that supports various groups in design, fabrication, and maintenance, including inventory management of parts/supplies.

A person who can support R&D projects utilizing the machine shop and support in the maintenance of the machine shop equipment and tools.

General duties and scope of work

Machine Shop:

1. Fabricate specialty fixtures, jigs, etc. utilizing steel stock, aluminum stock, 80/20, etc..

2. Perform periodic preventative maintenance / repairs on machine shop equipment.

3. Maintain shop safety, organization, cleanliness & oversight.

4. Support training & development for less experienced staff.

5. Support in creating solutions for project needs.

Inventory Management:

1. Manage (procure, organize, monitor, etc.) standard shop supplies (i.e., nuts, bolts, washers, shop chemicals, etc.) through established suppliers (i.e., McMaster-Carr, Grainger, etc.)

2. Monitor shop inventory levels through Kanban system or other established methods.

3. Research and procure miscellaneous shop supplies, stock inventory & manage invoices.

4. Maintain good inventory organization, cleanliness & oversight.

Requirements

Skills and Experience:

1. Minimum 10-year experience in a fabrication shop environment utilizing various machine shop equipment.

2. Proficient in MIG & TIG for both steel and aluminum.

3. Working level experience w/CNC operations is a plus.

4. CAD experience is a plus.

5. Automotive background (light duty and/or heavy-duty vehicle experience) is a plus.

6. The ideal candidate would be prepared to display their skill sets through pictures/videos/etc. of current/previous projects.

General Requirements

1. Eager to learn new skills and methods.

2. Creativity in finding solutions supporting R&D projects.

Apply