Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Entry-Level CNC Machinist (1st Shift and 2nd Shift)

Job Description

Join a large, clean aerospace manufacturing facility as an entry-level CNC Machinist on 1st shift or 2nd shift. You will receive hands-on training to develop your machining skills, work with a variety of CNC equipment, and grow into higher-level roles such as lead machinist or programmer. This role is ideal for candidates with trade school training or 1–3 years of experience who want to build a long-term career in precision manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC machines, with a focus on lathes and mills, to produce precision aerospace components according to specifications.
• Perform basic CNC setup activities under supervision, including loading tools, setting offsets, and preparing machines for production runs.
• Read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings to understand part requirements, dimensions, and tolerances.
• Use inspection tools such as calipers and other measuring instruments to verify part dimensions and ensure quality standards.
• Monitor machines during operation, identify basic issues, and communicate any concerns or abnormalities to more experienced machinists or supervisors.
• Follow established production processes and work instructions to maintain consistency and accuracy in parts produced.
• Assist with inspecting parts during and after machining to confirm they meet blueprint specifications and quality requirements.
• Work with Haas and other CNC equipment as assigned, learning to operate different machine types in a high-production environment.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, following shop safety procedures and housekeeping standards.
• Participate actively in training, coaching, and cross-training opportunities to progress toward higher-level machinist and programming responsibilities.

Essential Skills

• Trade school or NTMA-style machining training, or 1–3 years of experience in CNC machining or a closely related role.
• Basic experience with CNC operation, including lathes and/or mills.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Familiarity with inspection practices and use of measuring tools such as calipers.
• Willingness to work 1st shift with 10–15 hours of overtime each week.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and production processes in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• NTMA training or equivalent formal machining education preferred.
• Experience with CNC setup on lathes or mills is a plus.
• Exposure to Haas CNC machines or similar controls is beneficial.
• Any prior experience in aerospace or high-precision production environments is advantageous.
• Interest in developing into a lead machinist or CNC programmer over time.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with a variety of machine tools.

Why Work Here?

You will join a stable aerospace manufacturer that offers long-term growth and clear development paths into advanced machinist and programming roles. The company provides structured training, mentorship, and exposure to a wide range of machines, allowing you to build a strong technical foundation and progress your career. You will work in a supportive environment that values continuous learning, skill development, and internal advancement.

Work Environment

The role is based in a very clean aerospace manufacturing facility in Anaheim, CA, operating on 1st shift with 10–15 hours of overtime available each week. You will work in a large shop equipped with a wide variety of machines, including CNC lathes, mills, and Haas equipment, providing extensive exposure to different technologies. The environment emphasizes safety, organization, and professionalism, with strong training resources and support to help you grow into a high-level machinist or CNC programmer.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Anaheim, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Anaheim,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 22, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.