1

Cnc Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Cnc Trainee information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$22

$37

How much do cnc trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc trainee in Riverside, CA is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CNC trainee?

A CNC Trainee is an entry-level position for individuals learning to operate Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines in a manufacturing setting. They assist experienced machinists and technicians by setting up machines, loading materials, running basic operations, and performing routine maintenance. The role is designed to provide hands-on training and foundational knowledge in CNC programming, machine operation, and safety protocols. Over time, CNC Trainees develop the skills needed to advance to more specialized or senior CNC roles.

What are some typical challenges a CNC trainee might face during the initial months on the job?

As a CNC Trainee, you may encounter challenges such as learning to interpret complex technical drawings, understanding the nuances of machine setup, and mastering the safe handling of various tools and materials. Adjusting to the fast-paced environment and maintaining high precision under supervision can also be demanding. However, most employers provide thorough onboarding and mentorship to help you gradually build confidence and competence in these areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CNC trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CNC Trainee, you need basic mechanical aptitude, strong math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CNC machines, blueprint reading, and basic programming—often introduced through on-the-job training or vocational courses—are important technical assets. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and a willingness to learn help trainees excel and adapt in manufacturing environments. These skills ensure accurate machine operation, minimize errors, and support career advancement in precision manufacturing.

What is the difference between Cnc Trainee vs Cnc Operator?

AspectCnc TraineeCnc Operator
CredentialsBasic technical training, certification often preferredRelevant certifications, experience in operating CNC machines
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksActive production floor, machine operation
Job RoleLearning and assisting in CNC operationsRunning CNC machines independently
Experience LevelEntry-level, beginnerIntermediate, experienced

The main difference between a Cnc Trainee and a Cnc Operator is experience and responsibility. A Cnc Trainee is in training, learning the basics under supervision, while a Cnc Operator has hands-on experience and can operate CNC machines independently. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, with trainees progressing to operators as they gain skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cnc jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Cnc jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Cnc Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Cnc Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Cnc Trainee jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Cnc Trainee job openings:

Machinist Career Opportunities

Applied Medical

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA • On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


Applied Medical rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Pilot Metals Development

Machining Career Opportunities

The pilot metals development team supports Applied Medical’s mission to advance minimally invasive surgery by manufacturing precision metal components and tooling used in medical device development and production. These careers contribute directly to product quality, speed to market, and designformanufacture by executing hightolerance work in a vertically integrated environment. Career opportunities align with precision machinist, CNC programmer, EDM machinist, tool and die maker, mold maker, and metal fabrication specialist roles in manufacturing.


Position Description

Our Team Will:

  • Manufacture precision parts for pilot builds and product launch using CNC milling, CNC turning, EDM (wire/sinker), grinding, progressive stamping, and related processes.
  • Program and optimize toolpaths, feeds, speeds, and workholding to achieve quality, throughput, and repeatability targets.
  • Build and maintain tooling, molds, and dies; troubleshoot fit and function to meet dimensional and durability requirements.
  • Interpret engineering drawings and models; apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing to ensure design intent and tolerance stackups are met.
  • Collaborate with engineering, quality, and manufacturing teams to translate requirements into manufacturable solutions and support designformanufacturing feedback loops.
  • Inspect parts using precision metrology; document results and maintain records within medical device quality systems.
  • Improve processes through continuous improvement practices that enhance quality, safety, and cycle time.

Career Opportunities Include

  • Machinist Trainee
  • Apprenticeship
  • EDM Wire/Sinker Machinist
  • Grinding Machinist
  • CNC Lathe Machinist
  • CNC Milling Machinist
  • CNC Programmer
  • Tool & Die Maker
  • Mold Maker
  • Project Leader

Success On This Team Looks Like:

  • Delivering tighttolerance parts that meet dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and functional performance requirements.
  • Reducing cycle time and increasing firstpass yield through smart setups, programming, and fixturing.
  • Partnering effectively with crossfunctional teams to accelerate development timelines and derisk scaleup.
  • Documenting work clearly to ensure regulatory compliance and traceability within quality systems.
  • Driving continuous improvement that reduces scrap, improves throughput, and supports costeffective production.

Position Requirements

What We Look For:

  • Foundational machining or fabrication knowledge across CNC milling or turning, EDM, grinding, stamping, toolmaking, or mold making.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings and use precision measurement tools (for example, micrometers, calipers, height gauges, comparators).
  • Understanding of GD&T principles and follows documented processes within a qualityregulated environment.
  • Effective communication with engineering, quality, and manufacturing partners; documents work accurately.
  • Ability to Operate safely in shop, lab, and clean room environments as required; adheres to company safety rules and policies.

Applied Medical Offers:

  • Vertically integrated development, allowing teams to design, build, test, and refine products within a single organization.
  • Career pathways across technical, operational, and leadership roles, supporting long term growth and skill development.
  • Fast feedback loops between engineering, quality, and manufacturing that accelerate learning and improve execution.
  • Mission driven work that directly supports technologies used in minimally invasive surgical procedures.
  • A collaborative culture that values craftsmanship, accountability, continuous improvement, and shared ownership of results.

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation range: $18 - $30+ / hour (California).
  • Training and mentorship opportunities.
  • On-campus wellness activities.
  • Education reimbursement program.
  • 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.

Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well-being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.

All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.

Qualifications:

What We Look For:

  • Foundational machining or fabrication knowledge across CNC milling or turning, EDM, grinding, stamping, toolmaking, or mold making.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings and use precision measurement tools (for example, micrometers, calipers, height gauges, comparators).
  • Understanding of GD&T principles and follows documented processes within a qualityregulated environment.
  • Effective communication with engineering, quality, and manufacturing partners; documents work accurately.
  • Ability to Operate safely in shop, lab, and clean room environments as required; adheres to company safety rules and policies.

Applied Medical Offers:

  • Vertically integrated development, allowing teams to design, build, test, and refine products within a single organization.
  • Career pathways across technical, operational, and leadership roles, supporting long term growth and skill development.
  • Fast feedback loops between engineering, quality, and manufacturing that accelerate learning and improve execution.
  • Mission driven work that directly supports technologies used in minimally invasive surgical procedures.
  • A collaborative culture that values craftsmanship, accountability, continuous improvement, and shared ownership of results.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Applied Medical employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom