1

Machine Apprentice Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

NYS Certified Apprenticeship Program * Shift premiums for 2nd and 3rd shifts * Formal and informal development opportunities. Position Summary The CNC Lathe Machinist is responsible for running the ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Apprentice information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$21

$30

How much do machine apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine apprentice in Riverside, CA is $21.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine apprentice?

Machine apprentices are individuals who are learning to operate, maintain, and repair machinery through hands-on training and supervised work experience. They typically work under the guidance of experienced machinists or engineers in manufacturing, production, or industrial settings. The apprenticeship allows them to gain practical skills and technical knowledge required for a career in machining. Over time, apprentices may become fully qualified machinists or specialists, depending on their training and career goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine apprentice?

To thrive as a Machine Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, strong math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like calipers, micrometers, CNC machinery, and safety protocols is typically required, and some employers may prefer candidates enrolled in or having completed technical training programs. Attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring safety, accuracy, and efficient learning while operating or assisting with complex machinery.

What are some typical challenges a machine apprentice might face during their training period?

As a Machine Apprentice, you may encounter challenges such as learning to operate a variety of machines safely and efficiently, understanding complex technical drawings, and adapting to a fast-paced manufacturing environment. It's common to face a learning curve as you develop hands-on skills and become familiar with workplace safety protocols. However, most organizations provide mentorship and structured training to support your growth and help you overcome these hurdles.

What is the difference between Machine Apprentice vs Mechanical Technician?

AspectMachine ApprenticeMechanical Technician
Required CredentialsTypically vocational training or diploma, on-the-job trainingDiploma or certification in mechanical technology or related field
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, workshops, assembly linesMaintenance workshops, industrial facilities, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automotive, and heavy industryUsed across manufacturing, maintenance, and industrial sectors
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in manufacturingCompared for technical maintenance roles

Machine Apprentices typically undergo vocational training and work in manufacturing environments, focusing on learning machine operation and basic maintenance. Mechanical Technicians usually hold formal certifications and perform complex repairs and maintenance tasks. While both roles are essential in industrial settings, Machine Apprentices are often entry-level learners, whereas Mechanical Technicians are more experienced technical staff.

What does a machine apprentice do?

A machine apprentice assists in operating, maintaining, and repairing manufacturing or industrial machinery under the supervision of experienced technicians. They learn to use tools, follow safety protocols, and gain hands-on experience with equipment such as lathes, mills, or CNC machines. The role often involves training, skill development, and adherence to safety standards in a manufacturing environment.

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Machine Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Machine Apprentice job openings:

Machinist Career Opportunities

Applied Medical

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

$18 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 26 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