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Computer Numerical Control Operator Jobs in California

The CNC Machinist IV is responsible for the setup and operation of 3 - 5 axis computer numerical control (CNC) machines to include Lathe, Mill and Vertical Turret Lathes (VTL) and modified Mill with ...

CNC Programmer III

Santa Clarita, CA

$27 - $36.75/hr

CNC Programmer III Responsible forwriting and updating computer-numerical control (CNC) programs to ... Responsible for effectively training, mentoring, operators for evaluating and resolving process ...

CNC Programmer III

Santa Clarita, CA

$27 - $36.75/hr

CNC Programmer III Responsible forwriting and updating computer-numerical control (CNC) programs to ... Responsible for effectively training, mentoring, operators for evaluating and resolving process ...

CNC Machinist IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

$31 - $37/hr

The CNC Machinist IV is responsible for the setup and operation of 3 - 5 axis computer numerical control (CNC) machines to include Lathe, Mill and Vertical Turret Lathes (VTL) and modified Mill with ...

CNC Machinist IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

$31.36 - $37.63/hr

The CNC Machinist IV is responsible for the setup and operation of 3 - 5 axis computer numerical control (CNC) machines to include Lathe, Mill and Vertical Turret Lathes (VTL) and modified Mill with ...

CNC Machinist III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 26 operating ... The CNC Machinist III is responsible for the set up and operation of computer numerical control ...

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 26 operating ... The CNC Machinist III is responsible for the set up and operation of computer numerical control ...

Demonstrated ability at operating computer numerical control machines CULTURE: At FM Industries our success is powered by people and technology. Our culture is what makes FM a fun and rewarding place ...

Sr. CNC Operator (85482)

El Monte, CA · On-site

$34.62 - $41.71/hr

The Gill Corporation is seeking a Sr. CNC Operator who produces machined parts, sets up and operates computer numerical control (CNC) machines, maintaining quality and safety standards. Reporting to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Computer Numerical Control Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$24

$37

How much do computer numerical control operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer numerical control operator in California is $24.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Computer Numerical Control Operator vs Machinist?

AspectComputer Numerical Control OperatorMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, CNC certificationHigh school diploma, technical training or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, machine shopsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities
Job FocusSet up, operate, monitor CNC machinesDesign, measure, and manually operate machines
Industry UsageCommon in automated manufacturingTraditional machining and manual operations

While both roles work within manufacturing environments, a Computer Numerical Control Operator primarily programs and monitors CNC machines, focusing on automation. A Machinist often manually operates and maintains machines, with a broader focus on precision machining. Both roles require technical skills, but CNC Operators typically need specific certification in CNC programming and operation.

What cities in California are hiring for Computer Numerical Control Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Computer Numerical Control Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Computer Numerical Control Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,040 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

CNC Machinist IV

Zenix Aerospace

San Diego, CA

$31 - $37/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Zenix Aerospace is currently hiring the following position:

** Title:**CNC Machinist IV

** Shift:**2nd Shift (3:00PM - 11:30PM) Monday - Friday

**Facility & Location:**Ketema, El Cajon, CA

Who is Zenix Aerospace?

We are a global leader uniting decades of expertise under one name. Zenix Aerospaceâ„¢ is a leading supplier of structural airframe and engine components to the global aerospace and space industries. A critical supplier across all major fuel-efficient commercial narrowbody platforms with a global footprint in eight strategic locations across the US, UK, and South East Asia. We deliver on time, to the highest standards of quality and safety, as a trusted partner in aerospace excellence.

We are the leading partner in aerospace engineering uniting global expertise with a shared vision, we design and deliver high-technology aerospace components that keep aircraft and space systems flying safely, reliably, and efficiently. With a global footprint, decades of engineering heritage, and a future-focused approach to digital innovation, we are trusted by the world’s leading aerospace companies to deliver consistent excellence.Together, we are elevating aerospace.

Who is Zenix Aerospace Ketema?

Zenix Aerospace Ketema is a leading provider of components for aircraft and turbine engine builders, as well as precision products for space, marine and ground-based applications. Zenix Aerospace Ketema specializes in producing complex fabrications and machined components from titanium and nickel alloys.

What Does the Job Involve?

The CNC Machinist IV is responsible for the setup and operation of 3 – 5 axis computer numerical control (CNC) machines to include Lathe, Mill and Vertical Turret Lathes (VTL) and modified Mill with dual heads to perform and produce precision metal parts and materials. Determines dimensions and tolerances of material for machining, sequences of operations required by studying specifications, makes adjustments to adhere to established specifications. Plans and executes potentially difficult machining assignments. Uses precision measuring tools to check accuracy of work.

What Will My Responsibilities Include?

  • Sets-up, adjusts and operates machine controls to position tools or regulate cutting depth, speed, feed or coolant flow to produce precision metal parts and materials as specified by work order, blueprints, drawing, templates or layout.

  • Determines specifications or procedures for tooling requirements, set up procedures, machine operation, work-piece dimensions or numerical control sequences using blueprints, instructions and machine knowledge.

  • Mounts, aligns, and secures tooling, attachments and work-piece on machine chuck. Starts and stops automatic operation of numerical control machine parts or test setup, work-piece dimensions or programming. May adjust machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machine malfunctions.

  • Monitors and maintains machines during use in order to diagnose machine malfunctions, need for adjustments or repairs. May perform routine machine maintenance including checking coolant and positioning of machine.

  • Demonstrates ability to start and stop automatic operation of numerical control machine or test set up, work-piece dimensions or programming.

  • Ensures proper dimensions of finished material to ensure conformance to specifications.

  • May clean machine, tooling and parts and area surrounding machine in accordance with 5S procedures.

  • Demonstrates ability to appear for work on time, follows directions from a supervisor, interacts well with co-workers, understands and follows work rules and procedures, complies with corporate policies, goals and objectives, accepts constructive feedback and exhibits initiative and commitment.

  • Participates in Daily Management board meetings and willing to discuss Safety, Quality, Delivery, Efficiency and Utilization.

  • Proactively identifies opportunities to improve machining processes and efficiency.

  • Participates in Continuous Improvement activities as needed.

What Key Skills Do I Need?

  • Ability to read basic blueprints, drawings, or templates; including dimensional, true position, and circularity call outs.

  • Shop mathematics, GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing), and Feeds & Speed calculations.

  • Use of desktop publishing software.

  • Ability to use computerized spreadsheets to conduct analysis.

  • Knowledge of machines, controllers, and tools (Fanuc or Mazak.)

  • Ability to control operations of equipment and watch gauges, dials, or other indicators to ensure machine is working properly.

  • Ability to set up fixtures properly including clamping, centering, and indicating of fixture.

  • Ability to set up cutting tools and change out inserts for cutting operation.

  • Ability to use and understand measuring devices including calipers, micrometers, and bar gauges.

What QualificationsShould I Have?

Education:

  • High school diploma/GED or equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Vocational training or equivalent experience required.

Experience:

  • 5 years of previous CNC machine set up and operation experience or equivalent experience.
  • Mazak Mill/Turn experience required.

Why Join Zenix Aerospace?

Joining Zenix Aerospace means not only a rewarding career with a tight-knit and collaborative team, but you will also enjoy a competitive compensation package that includes a market-led base salary, a comprehensive benefits package along with wellness benefits, employee recognition program, matching 401k plan, paid vacation, employee wellness activities, tuition reimbursement, and community involvement initiatives.

If offer of employment is made it will be contingent upon passing all of the following: Drug Test, Background Check,ITAR and U.S. Export Compliance Screening.

Equal Opportunity Employer: minority/female/disability/veteran

Access to our facility (and, therefore, employment) is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, U.S. refugees, asylees or temporary residents under amnesty provisions [as defined in 8 USC 1324b(a)(3)] and properly licensed foreign persons. Applicants receiving a conditional offer of employment will be required to provide information to determine whether they are subject to these regulations and, if so, to assess their country of chargeability for trade compliance control purposes. Additionally, potential employee’s names will be screened against the Consolidated Screening List (maintained by the United States government) to determine eligibility to receive technical data.

You should be proficient in:

  • CNC Tooling
  • CNC Machine Setup & Changeover

Machines & technologies you'll use:

  • CNC Mill (5+ axis VMC) (Mazak)
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