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First Shift Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Machinist III, 1st shift

Torrance, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Machinist III, 1st shift Reporting To: Leader, Performance Work Schedule: Onsite - Torrance, CA Our team in Military Aircraft Group is looking for an experienced Machinist III on 1st shift (6:00am-2 ...

Machinist III, 1st shift

Torrance, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Machinist III, 1st shift Reporting To: Leader, Performance Work Schedule: Onsite - Torrance, CA Our team in Military Aircraft Group is looking for an experienced Machinist III on 1st shift (6:00am-2 ...

The 1st Shift Production Supervisor is a member of the plant leadership team. Directly responsible for the overall management of the assigned department including all aspects of current operation to ...

$90K - $110K/yr

Maintenance Supervisor 1st Shift Salary $90,000 $110,000 + Bonus + Excellent Benefits & Paid Relocation to CaliforniaA growing food manufacturing company is seeking an experienced Maintenance ...

Job Summary We are looking for an experienced machine operator to operate and maintain cabling equipment on our 1st shift. Standard shift is Monday through Friday, 4:30am to 1pm. Starting Pay: $22 ...

Grind & Polish 1st shift Pay Rate: $23.75/hr. Location: Sylmar, CA Area Code: 818, 747 ZIP Code: 91342 Start Date: Right Away Shift: 1st shift - 05:00 AM - 01:30 PM Keywords: #Grind #SylmarJobs;

PAY: $27.00 PER HOUR 1ST SHIFT: 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM LOCAL POSITION - HOME DAILYWhat You'll Be Doing * Shuttle trailers and freight between nearby distribution facilities * Operate a yard goat in a busy ...

PAY: $27.00 PER HOUR 1ST SHIFT: 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM LOCAL POSITION - HOME DAILYWhat You'll Be Doing * Shuttle trailers and freight between nearby distribution facilities * Operate a yard goat in a busy ...

Machinist 1st shift

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Shift : 1st shift, Monday-Friday 5:30a-2:00p What You'll Be Doing * Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture and repair precision aerospace components. * Read and interpret ...

Machinist 1st shift

Escondido, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $31.25/hr

Shift : 1st shift, Monday-Friday 5:30a-2:00p What You'll Be Doing * Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture and repair precision aerospace components. * Read and interpret ...

Machinist 1st shift

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$23 - $31.25/hr

Shift : 1st shift, Monday-Friday 5:30a-2:00p What You'll Be Doing * Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture and repair precision aerospace components. * Read and interpret ...

Machinist 1st shift

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $33.25/hr

Shift : 1st shift, Monday-Friday 5:30a-2:00p What You'll Be Doing * Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture and repair precision aerospace components. * Read and interpret ...

Machinist 1st shift

San Diego, CA · On-site

$23 - $31.50/hr

Shift : 1st shift, Monday-Friday 5:30a-2:00p What You'll Be Doing * Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture and repair precision aerospace components. * Read and interpret ...

Machinist 1st shift

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Shift : 1st shift, Monday-Friday 5:30a-2:00p What You'll Be Doing * Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture and repair precision aerospace components. * Read and interpret ...

Machinist 1st shift

San Diego, CA · On-site

$23 - $31.50/hr

Shift : 1st shift, Monday-Friday 5:30a-2:00p What You'll Be Doing * Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture and repair precision aerospace components. * Read and interpret ...

Machinist 1st shift

Escondido, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Shift : 1st shift, Monday-Friday 5:30a-2:00p What You'll Be Doing * Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture and repair precision aerospace components. * Read and interpret ...

Machinist 1st shift

Encinitas, CA · On-site

$23.25 - $32/hr

Shift : 1st shift, Monday-Friday 5:30a-2:00p What You'll Be Doing * Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture and repair precision aerospace components. * Read and interpret ...

Showing results 21-40

First Shift information

See California salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do first shift jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for first shift in California is $14.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $16.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does first shift mean in a job posting?

The term 'First Shift' refers to a standard work period that typically takes place during daytime hours, often starting in the early morning and ending in the afternoon. This shift is also sometimes called the 'day shift.' The exact hours can vary by employer, but common times are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM or 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. First shift is popular for those who prefer a daytime work schedule and want evenings and nights free for personal activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first shift supervisor?

To thrive as a First Shift Supervisor, you need strong leadership abilities, time management, and a solid understanding of operational procedures, typically supported by prior supervisory or manufacturing experience. Familiarity with scheduling software, production tracking systems, and safety regulations is often required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and team-building skills help foster a productive work environment. These competencies are critical for maintaining workflow efficiency, ensuring safety, and achieving shift goals.

What are some challenges commonly faced by employees working the first shift, and how can they be managed?

Employees working the first shift often start their workday early in the morning, which can be challenging for those not accustomed to early wake-up times. This schedule can also mean navigating busy commutes and adjusting to earlier bedtimes to ensure adequate rest. However, the first shift typically offers the advantage of having afternoons and evenings free, which can improve work-life balance. To manage these challenges, it's helpful to establish a consistent sleep routine, prepare for the workday the night before, and make use of productivity tools to stay organized during peak hours when most teams are active.

What is the difference between First Shift vs Second Shift?

AspectFirst ShiftSecond Shift
Typical Hours8:00 AM - 4:00 PM4:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Work EnvironmentDaytime operations, regular business hoursEvening/night operations, may have different staffing
Common IndustriesManufacturing, office jobs, retailManufacturing, logistics, customer service
Credentials NeededUsually the same for both shifts, no specific shift requirementSame as First Shift

First Shift and Second Shift primarily differ in working hours. First Shift typically runs during daytime hours, while Second Shift covers evening or night hours. Both shifts often require similar skills and credentials, but the work environment and schedule can impact work-life balance and commute. Employers in manufacturing, logistics, and customer service commonly operate multiple shifts to meet demand.

What are the most commonly searched types of First Shift jobs in California?

The most popular types of First Shift jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for First Shift jobs?

Cities in California with the most First Shift job openings:

Infographic showing various First Shift job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,973 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Machinist III, 1st shift

Moog

Torrance, CA • On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Moog Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

251st of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Moog is a performance culture that empowers people to achieve great things. Our people enjoy solving interesting technical challenges in a culture where everyone trusts each other to do the right thing. For you, working with us can mean deeper job satisfaction, better rewards, and a great quality of life inside and outside of work.


Job Title:

Machinist III, 1st shift

Reporting To:

Leader, Performance

Work Schedule:

Onsite - Torrance, CA

Our team in Military Aircraft Group is looking for an experienced Machinist III on 1st shift (6:00am-2:30pm) to join them. You will report to our Performance Leader and will have an on-site work schedule at our aerospace plant in Torrance, CA.

Moog's Military Aircraft Group is a global leader in designing primary and secondary flight control actuation systems (FCAS) for military aircraft. We design and integrate FCAS systems for cutting edge aircraft like the F-35 Lightning II and the V280 Valor next generation tiltrotor Aircraft. Headquartered in East Aurora, NY, Moog employs 14,000 employees in 20+ countries. Working with us can mean deeper job satisfaction, better rewards, and a great quality of life, inside and outside of work.

To be considered for the Machinist III role, here's what you'll need to bring with you:

  • High School diploma or GED preferred.Otherwise, demonstrated ability to understand and apply all verbal, written and computer work instructions or training in English, and demonstrated ability to perform simple addition, subtraction, multiplication and division

  • 7 years or more of Shaping Machining experience (Gleason Shaper, Hobbing experience, Gear cutting machines)

  • Complete understanding of gear making / shaping / Skiving.

  • Ability to measure gears ID/OD (MOW, MBW) use of dyer gauges, Knowledge, and experience with CMM reports and how to read reports with all gear measurements.

Preferred Technical Qualifications:Experience with the following machines desired, but not required:

  • Gleason Shaper P500

  • Gleason Shaper GP300

  • Gleason Hobbing Machine H400

  • Okuma Multi-Pallet Machine Center 5-axis

  • Multi-Axis Mills: 5-axis vertical/horizontal machining centers (Okuma)

  • Multi-Tasking Lathes: CNC turning centers with live tooling, Y-axis, and sub-spindles

  • Swiss-Style Lathes: Citizen or Star machines for high-precision, small-diameter components

  • Automated Cells: Systems integrated with robotic parts loaders or pallet changers

Specialized Machine Experience

  • Gleason Shapers: Operating and setting up

  • Gear Hobbing: Tooling setup for horizontal/vertical hobbing machines

  • Gear Skiving: High-speed power skiving for internal and external gears

  • Gear Shaping: Operating Fellows-style stroke shapers for internal splines

As a Machinist, you will:

  • Sets up and operates proficiently two or more different types manual or CNC machines such as: Profiling, Hones, Gleason Reciprocators, Gleason Generators, Milling Turning, Drilling and Grinding, producing quality production hardware.

  • Plans sequence of operation using available tooling or improving tooling as necessary.

  • Performs a complete range of operations on all types of materials on Okuma lathe

  • Meets production time standards on work assignments.

  • Performs set-ups and all other machinist level functions.

  • Operates machines outside his/her area of expertise and to deburr parts.

  • Participates in the planning of work within the Cell and to help solve problems occurring within the Cell.

  • Inspects all work performed; detecting unusual conditions, defective materials, and deviate parts; and recognizing errors in blueprints and operation sheets.

  • Applies good knowledge of practical shop mathematics.

  • Uses a wide variety of shop precision measuring instruments for setting up and checking work, including comparator charts for first piece buy-off and in-process monitoring of hardware.

  • Performs block checks on NC or CNC machines and detects errors in tapes to prevent scrap.

  • Assists NC Programming Department using edits to resolve errors in a timely manner as required.

  • Performs other work as required.

Technical Skills & Competencies

  • Blueprint Reading: Interpreting complex GD&T symbols and gear data charts

  • Precision Measurement: Proficient with micrometers, calipers

  • Math Proficiency: Strong understanding of trigonometry and gear geometry formulas

  • CNC Programming: Editing G-code and M-code at the machine control

General Qualifications

  • Mechanical Aptitude: Troubleshooting machine setups and tool wear independently

  • Material Knowledge: Understanding shear strengths of varied alloy steels

Expectations for Production Success

  • Maintain Efficiency: Achieve target cycle times and meet daily part-count quotas

  • Monitor Quality: Conduct first-piece and in-process inspections using micrometers, calipers, and GD&T blueprints

  • Tooling Management: Recognize tool wear early, change inserts, and accurately update machine offsets

  • Minimize Downtime: Perform rapid setups and changeovers to keep production lines running smoothly

Growth and Leadership Expectations

  • Process Optimization: Identify bottlenecks and suggest program modifications to reduce cycle times

  • Peer Mentorship: Train junior operators on setup procedures, safety protocols, and shop best practices

  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with programming and engineering teams to troubleshoot complex machining issues

  • Operational Ownership: Lead continuous improvement (5S/Kaizen) initiatives to optimize shop floor workflow

How We Care For You:

  • Financial Rewards: great compensation package, bonus opportunities,matching 401k, and the ability to participate in Employee Stock Purchase Plan (select locations), Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts

  • Work/Life Balance: Flexible paid time off, holidays and parental leave program, relocation assistance

  • Health & Welfare: Comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, Employee Assistance Plan ("EAP") and other supplemental benefit coverages

  • Professional Skills Development: Tuition Assistance, mentorship and coaching opportunities, leadership development and other personal growth programs

  • Culture: Warm, respectful, family-like environment driven by our 12 core values. Multiple Employee Resource Groups led by our employees, open and welcoming to all

Salary Range Transparency:

Torrance, CA $35.00-$42.00 Hourly

Salary Range Disclaimer

The base salary range represents the low and high end of the Moog salary range for this position in the given work location. Actual salaries will vary depending on factors including but not limited to location, experience, and performance. The range(s) listed is just one component of Moog's total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, employee stock purchase plan, an open paid time off policy, and many region-specific benefits.


This position requires access to U.S. export-controlled information.


Moog offers an inclusive workplace, and, as such, affirms the right of every person to participate in all aspects of employment based on merit without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, contact our Human Resources department via phone at 844-367-5787.


No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Absent compliance with these pre-conditions resumes submitted directly to any Moog Inc. employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Moog Inc.


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About Moog

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1951 with the invention of the servo valve by Bill Moog, a breakthrough in motion control systems, Moog Inc. (NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B) has evolved into a global leader in motion control parts and systems. Headquartered in East Aurora, NY, we serve customers in over 90 countries, with operations spanning more than 27 countries and a dedicated workforce of nearly 13,000 professionals. Our organization comprises three operating groups: Aircraft, Industrial, and Space and Defense. Our high-performance systems drive military and commercial aircraft, satellites, launch vehicles, missiles, industrial machinery, marine, and medical equipment. At Moog, our focus lies in crafting high-performance solutions to solve the most challenging technical problems for our customers. Beyond technical prowess, Moog fosters a performance culture empowering employees to achieve greatness. Our team thrives on tackling engaging technical challenges within a culture of trust, offering rewarding job experiences and a fulfilling work-life balance.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

East Aurora, NY, US

Year founded

1951

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