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Machine Building Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Westfall Technik

Automation Engineer

Union City, CA · On-site

This role combines engineering design with hands-on machine building and testing, requiring strong mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic knowledge to build and implement effective automation ...

Westfall Technik

Automation Engineer

Union City, CA · On-site

This role combines engineering design with hands-on machine building and testing, requiring strong mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic knowledge to build and implement effective automation ...

WestFall Technik

Automation Engineer

Union City, CA · On-site

This role combines engineering design with hands-on machine building and testing, requiring strong mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic knowledge to build and implement effective automation ...

Howmet Aerospace

Controls Engineer

Fullerton, CA

$95K - $125K/yr

The person in this position will be part of the Machine building team that is responsible for design and manufacturing of new and rebuilt machines to support HFS facilities worldwide. This group is ...

York Employment

Aerospace Assembler

Corona, CA

$18 - $21/hr

Machine Building/Assembling * Mechanical Troubleshooting Skills * Soldering * Pneumatics Experience * Pneumatics Troubleshooting * Tape Measure Reading * Mechanical Assembly Skills * Equipment ...

Howmet Aerospace

Controls Engineer

Fullerton, CA

$95K - $125K/yr

The person in this position will be part of the Machine building team that is responsible for design and manufacturing of new and rebuilt machines to support HFS facilities worldwide. This group is ...

Howmet

Controls Engineer

Fullerton, CA

$95K - $125K/yr

The person in this position will be part of the Machine building team that is responsible for design and manufacturing of new and rebuilt machines to support HFS facilities worldwide. This group is ...

Extreme Machine Inc

Be Seen First

CNC Machinist/Lathe Machinist

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$35 - $60/hr

We are building a next-generation automated CNC shop focused on lights-out manufacturing and continuous process optimization. We are looking for an elite CNC machinist with experience on advanced ...

Anning Johnson

Northern Ca - Hod Carrier

Hayward, CA · On-site

$40.48/hr

The job also includes, but is not limited to, the making, mixing, tempering and conveying of all materials whether done by hand or machine; building and handling all necessary trestles and ...

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Machine Building information

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$13

$22

$30

How much do machine building jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine building in California is $22.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Machine Builder, you need strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading, technical assembly skills, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with hand and power tools, CNC machines, and CAD software is often required, along with knowledge of safety regulations. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for producing precise and reliable machinery. These skills ensure machinery is built accurately, safely, and efficiently, meeting design specifications and minimizing downtime.

What are the typical challenges faced when working in machine building, and how can new employees prepare for them?

One common challenge in machine building is adapting to rapidly changing project requirements and tight deadlines, as projects often evolve based on client needs or technical discoveries. New employees may also encounter complex mechanical systems and must learn to interpret detailed technical drawings and specifications accurately. To prepare, it's helpful to develop strong problem-solving skills, maintain clear communication with engineers and team members, and stay organized to manage multiple tasks efficiently. Seeking mentorship and participating in ongoing training can also ease the transition and ensure long-term success in the role.

What is machine building?

Machine building refers to the process of designing, fabricating, assembling, and testing machines or mechanical systems for industrial use. It involves combining various components such as motors, gears, sensors, and control systems to create functional equipment tailored to specific manufacturing or production tasks. Machine builders work closely with engineers and clients to ensure the finished machines meet safety standards, performance requirements, and operational efficiency. This field can encompass everything from automated assembly lines to custom machinery for specialized industries.

What is the difference between Machine Building vs Mechanical Technician?

AspectMachine BuildingMechanical Technician
CredentialsTypically requires technical diploma or apprenticeship in manufacturing or engineeringUsually holds a diploma or certificate in mechanical technology or related field
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, assembly linesWorkshops, maintenance facilities, industrial sites
Industry UsageDesign, assemble, and test machinery and equipmentMaintain, troubleshoot, and repair mechanical systems

Machine Building and Mechanical Technicians both work in industrial settings and require technical certifications. Machine Building focuses on assembling and testing machinery, while Mechanical Technicians primarily maintain and repair mechanical systems. Both roles are essential in manufacturing industries, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

What are popular job titles related to Machine Building jobs in California? For Machine Building jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Building jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Building jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Machine Building jobs? Cities in California with the most Machine Building job openings:
Machine Building jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Building job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,846 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Tooling & Die Specialist, Machine Build- 1st Shift

Tooling & Die Specialist, Machine Build- 1st Shift

Howmet Aerospace

Fullerton, CA

$23.86 - $40.57/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Howmet Aerospace rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 155 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 59 rated aerospace companies

Job description

About Howmet Aerospace

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Tooling Specialist IV- 1st Shift for our Fullerton, CA location. 

At this facility Machine building is responsible for the Design and manufacture of specialized, custom automation solutions in support of Aerospace fastener manufacturing. Utilizing the latest technology in PLC, machine vision, robotics, and smart manufacturing, we support HFS sites worldwide with their challenging production needs. In this role you will be responsible for supporting various aspects related to the production and support of custom machinery solutions. Including but not limited to custom new builds, re-builds, and retrofits. Primarily this is a Tool maker/machinist role.  But this position offers great exposure to anyone looking to pursue growth in the field of industrial automation or robotics.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

  • Produce various machine parts and tooling to prints, or from sketches utilizing CNC mills Lathes and surface grinders.                                                           
  • Make drawings and sketches as needed to produce or reproduce critical tools or components. 
  • Work accurately to meet precise tolerances of (+ .001).  
  • Assembly of new mechanical systems with instruction. Disassembly of existing mechanical systems for inspection and recommend repairs or replacements with or without instruction.
  • Machine, assemble, install machine guarding utilizing aluminum extrusions (80/20) and polycarbonate sheets to specification.      
  • Work with design team and engineers to develop parts and processes for efficient economical manufacturing. Help produce proof of concept models and test fixtures.
  • On occasion Generate material and supply requests to support assigned work.
  • Provide guidance and support for installed systems at sister sites occasionally requiring some local travel.  
  • Perform Basic preventive maintenance on equipment operated.                                         
  • Demonstrate Working knowledge of manufacturing quality processes and principles
  • Solve practical problems with a variety of variables in a fast-paced environment.
  • Keep work area and equipment clean, organized, and safe. Perform and maintain 5s standards to the highest level.
  • Perform other tasks of equal or lesser skill as required.
  • Share and accept knowledge and feedback with peers in support of growth and development of inclusive team environment.   
  • Engage regularly in conversations for improvements in efficiency and productivity. Make recommendations for tools or equipment to streamline performance of assigned tasks.   

Basic Qualifications:

  • 2+ years Machine building or tool-room experience preferred.                        
  • Able to calculate mathematical figures and amounts.
  • Must have thorough knowledge of precision measuring equipment, shop math, and trig.
  • Not required but beneficial: Experience with Trak machine tools, SMX, RMX, SLX, RMX CNC controls. Pneumatics, hydraulics, robotics, Solidworks, CAD.
  • Willing to train if candidate possesses strong adjacent skills or mechanical knowledge. 
  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Physical Demands:  

  • Use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. 
  • Frequently required to stand and sit. 
  • Occasionally required to walk and talk or hear. 
  • Frequently lifts and/or moves up to 30 pounds. 
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • High School Diploma, GED, apprenticeship, or equivalent preferred. 
  • Experience with aerospace tooling and fasteners.
  • Strong communication skills – written and oral.

Benefits/Salary: 

The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package available day one of hire, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), excellent 401k matching program, paid holidays and vacation. Howmet Aerospace curates a strong working environment through opportunities for career progression, community engagement activities, and flexible schedules contingent upon role and location. The salary range for this position is $23.86 to $40.57.

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About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888

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