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Machine Shop Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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High School plus 4 years Formal Apprenticeship certificate or equivalent. * Minimum 4 years of ... Machine shop experience utilizing complicated drawings and specifications as well as the use of ...

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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 ...

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 ...

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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 ...

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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 ...

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 ...

... all machine shop equipment and 5S upkeep Notify management of shop consumables (i.e. cutting oils, welding gasses, tooling and bits, etc.) in order to maintain inventories Create assembly and ...

Manual Machinist

San Diego, CA

$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 ...

Manual Machinist

San Jose, CA

$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 ...

Manual Machinist

Los Angeles, CA

$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 ...

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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Machine Shop Apprentice information

See California salary details

$13

$19

$29

How much do machine shop apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 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:
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Apprentice job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,402 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
CNC Journeyman Machinist

CNC Journeyman Machinist

The Norland Group

San Jose, CA • On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

Title: Journeyman Machinist

Location: San Jose CA

Duration: 6-12month contract

Pay: $35+DOE /hour W2

Job Desc

**BACKGROUND CHECK AND DRUG TEST IS REQUIRED* 


Essential Responsibilities:

  • Work on complex assignments that include operating CNC and Manual machines producing highly precision parts.
  • Use judgment and initiative in resolving problems and making recommendations.
  • Design and fabricate fixtures and grind special purpose tooling.
  • Perform layout, set up, program, operate and make tool adjustments for a variety of conventional or computer numerical control machine (CNC).
  • Work from engineering drawings, process sheets and sketches to produce cutting and shaping of material to precision dimensions.
  • Check and inspect machining operations against specified tolerances.
  • Perform quality inspections on completed work.
  • Adhere to safe work procedures.

Required Education, Experience & Technical Competencies:

  • High School plus 4 years Formal Apprenticeship certificate or equivalent.
  • Minimum 4 years of machining experience, including manual mill/lathe, CNC Mill/Lathe
  • Machine shop experience utilizing complicated drawings and specifications as well as the use of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of higher mathematics involved in the application of engineering principles.


 

Company Description

About us:
The Norland Group has been in operation successfully since 1996. We are a strong believer of people management, professionalism and accountability. We only make promises when we are certain we can fulfill them. Our business focuses on fulfilling the needs of commercial and government customers in administrative services, workforce mobilization, information technology, engineering, project management services.
Our Mission Statement
Our main goal is to provide career advancement opportunities to our associates. We are committed to bringing our customers exceptional support services with the highest quality, integrity, and innovation. We believe that we are the stepping stone for our associates to advance their careers and to live a better life. Everyone should have a chance to live a successful and happy life. We operate our business based on those values and we choose employees who value the same principles.