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Machine Shop Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ovation Holdings, Inc.

Manual Machinist

Benicia, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $34.75/hr

Set up and operate manual lathes, mills, drill presses, and other machine shop equipment. * Machine ... Technical school training, apprenticeship, military mechanical training, or equivalent hands-on ...

Conhagen

Manual Machinist

Benicia, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $34.75/hr

Set up and operate manual lathes, mills, drill presses, and other machine shop equipment. * Machine ... Technical school training, apprenticeship, military mechanical training, or equivalent hands-on ...

Apex Space & Defense Systems

Lead Machinist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Train and mentor apprentice and junior machinists, providing guidance on best practices, safety ... The work environment is primarily a machine shop setting with exposure to noise, lubricants, and ...

ALL AMERICAN RACERS INC

Lead Machinist

Santa Ana, CA

$30 - $45/hr

Train and mentor apprentice and junior machinists, providing guidance on best practices, safety ... The work environment is primarily a machine shop setting with exposure to noise, lubricants, and ...

AppleOne

Lead Machinist

Santa Ana, CA

$140K/yr

... guide apprentice and junior machinists on machining best practices, safety, equipment use, and ... machine shop environment using 5S, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement principles.

New

Hasa

Be Seen First

Engineering Technician

Saugus, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Fabricate parts in a machine shop environment using powered hand tools, mills, lathes, table saws ... High school diploma and/or completion of vocational training/apprenticeship * Must work, HANDS-ON ...

Newbasis

Tooling Apprentice

Riverside, CA · On-site

Learn how to safely machine wood components to tight tolerances. * Support the repair and ... Adhere to shop safety standards and maintain a clean, organized work area. Training & Growth Path ...

Raytheon

Manual Machinist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $32/hr

Use of general machine shop tools and support equipment including the use of typical dimensional ... apprenticeship). * Basic experience in the development and manipulation of computer-generated 3D ...

Raytheon

Manual Machinist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$23.25 - $31.50/hr

Use of general machine shop tools and support equipment including the use of typical dimensional ... apprenticeship). * Basic experience in the development and manipulation of computer-generated 3D ...

Raytheon

Manual Machinist

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $34.75/hr

Use of general machine shop tools and support equipment including the use of typical dimensional ... apprenticeship). * Basic experience in the development and manipulation of computer-generated 3D ...

BBB Automotive

Apprentice Technician

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$22/hr

Reports machinery defects or malfunctions to supervisor. * Ensures that customers' cars are kept ... Keeps shop area neat and clean. * Maintains and is accountable for all dealership-owned tools and ...

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All JobsMachine Shop Apprentice JobsMachine Shop Apprentice Jobs in California

Machine Shop Apprentice information

See California salary details

$13

$19

$29

How much do machine shop apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop apprentice in California is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a machine shop apprentice do?

A Machine Shop Apprentice learns the basics of operating machinery and tools in a manufacturing or machining environment. They work under the supervision of experienced machinists to gain hands-on experience in tasks such as measuring, cutting, shaping, and assembling metal parts. Apprentices are also trained in safety procedures, blueprint reading, and the use of various machines like lathes, mills, and grinders. Over time, they develop the technical skills needed to become a fully qualified machinist.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine shop apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Shop Apprentice, you need a strong understanding of basic machining principles, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manual and CNC machines, measurement tools like calipers and micrometers, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and good communication skills help apprentices excel in collaborative and precision-focused environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safety, product quality, and effective learning and contribution in a machine shop setting.

What are some common challenges faced by a machine shop apprentice during their first year?

As a Machine Shop Apprentice, one of the main challenges you may encounter in your first year is adapting to the precision and attention to detail required when operating machinery and reading technical blueprints. You'll also need to quickly learn safety protocols and proper tool handling to prevent accidents. Working as part of a skilled team, you'll be expected to communicate effectively and ask questions when unsure, which is vital for both learning and maintaining workflow efficiency. Overcoming the initial learning curve with new equipment and terminology is common, but mentorship from experienced machinists can help you progress steadily.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Shop jobs in California?

The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Machine Shop Apprentice jobs?

Cities in California with the most Machine Shop Apprentice job openings:

Machine Shop Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Apprentice job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,402 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Manual Machinist

Ovation Holdings, Inc.

Benicia, CA • On-site

$25.75 - $34.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Manual Machinist
About Conhagen
Conhagen is a leading provider of rotating equipment repair, maintenance, and machining services. We support customers across a variety of industries by delivering high-quality repair and manufacturing solutions that keep critical equipment operating safely and efficiently.
Position Summary
Conhagen is seeking a skilled Manual Machinist to join our team in La Marque, TX. This position is responsible for machining, repairing, and fabricating components for pumps, turbines, compressors, and other rotating equipment used in critical industrial applications.
The ideal candidate will have experience operating manual machine tools, interpreting blueprints, performing precision measurements, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
Responsibilities
  • Set up and operate manual lathes, mills, drill presses, and other machine shop equipment.
  • Machine components to required specifications using blueprints, drawings, and technical documentation.
  • Perform precision measurements using micrometers, calipers, dial indicators, bore gauges, and other measuring instruments.
  • Inspect finished parts to ensure compliance with specifications and quality standards.
  • Assist with the repair and refurbishment of rotating equipment components.
  • Troubleshoot machining issues and recommend corrective actions.
  • Maintain equipment, tools, and work areas in a clean and organized manner.
  • Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
  • Collaborate with mechanics, machinists, supervisors, and engineering personnel to meet production and repair schedules.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to safety, quality, and efficiency.

Qualifications
Required
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Experience operating manual machining equipment.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and technical specifications.
  • Knowledge of machining principles, tolerances, and precision measurements.
  • Ability to safely operate machine tools and use precision measuring equipment.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred
  • 3+ years of manual machining experience.
  • Experience machining components for pumps, turbines, compressors, motors, or other rotating equipment.
  • Technical school training, apprenticeship, military mechanical training, or equivalent hands-on experience.
  • Experience working in industrial, manufacturing, power generation, oil and gas, or petrochemical environments.

Why Join Conhagen?
  • Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits package.
  • Stable, long-term career opportunities.
  • Climate-controlled shop with air conditioning and heat.
  • Individual employee lockers.
  • Dedicated lunch and break room.
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement programs.
  • Tool-buying assistance program.
  • Fitness reimbursement program.
  • On-the-job training and mentorship.
  • Safety-focused culture.
  • Opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to safely operate machining equipment and hand tools.
  • Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Conhagen is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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