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Machine Shop Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Inside Machinist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$34.43 - $37.78/hr

Must have two years apprenticeship and three years experience in a machine shop or five years equivalent work experience. Proficient in using precision measurement tools and understanding both ...

Must have two years apprenticeship and three years experience in a machine shop or five years equivalent work experience. Proficient in using precision measurement tools and understanding both ...

Must have two years apprenticeship and three years experience in a machine shop or five years equivalent work experience. Proficient in using precision measurement tools and understanding both ...

Must have two years apprenticeship and three years experience in a machine shop or five years equivalent work experience. Proficient in using precision measurement tools and understanding both ...

Must have two years apprenticeship and three years experience in a machine shop or five years equivalent work experience. Proficient in using precision measurement tools and understanding both ...

Must have two years apprenticeship and three years experience in a machine shop or five years equivalent work experience. Proficient in using precision measurement tools and understanding both ...

Must have two years apprenticeship and three years experience in a machine shop or five years equivalent work experience. Proficient in using precision measurement tools and understanding both ...

Apprentice

San Dimas, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The Apprentice typically spends 8 hours each day in the company and takes evening classes at a ... Machining of precision parts and the corresponding inspection Be able to move around the shop based ...

Inside Machinist

Jamul, CA

$34.43 - $37.78/hr

Must have two years apprenticeship and three years experience in a machine shop or five years equivalent work experience. Proficient in using precision measurement tools and understanding both ...

Must have two years apprenticeship and three years experience in a machine shop or five years equivalent work experience. Proficient in using precision measurement tools and understanding both ...

Machinist

Clovis, CA · On-site

$25 - $27.85/hr

Excelsior Machine Shop Posting Start Date: 3/20/26 Summary Welcome to Ryerson, where exceptional ... Successful candidates will be enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program as part of their ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Milling Machine Machinist

Palmdale, CA

$23.50 - $31.25/hr

... shop computations. Measures, marks, and scribes dimensions and reference points to lay out stock ... apprenticeship or equivalent training and experience. • Fabrication of parts, assemblies ...

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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 Jun 10, 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 are popular job titles related to Machine Shop Apprentice jobs in California? For Machine Shop Apprentice jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Shop Apprentice jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Shop Apprentice 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,402 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Inside Machinist

$34.43 - $37.78/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Posting End Date: Until Filled
Shift: All
Security Clearance: No Clearance required
Who We Are
General Dynamics NASSCO is one of three shipyards in the Marine Systems group of General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE: GD). General Dynamics NASSCO traces its beginnings to the industrial heart of San Diego, along the working waterfront of beautiful and historic San Diego Bay. The company has been designing and building ships in San Diego's industrial corridor since 1960 and is the largest full service shipyard on the West Coast of the United States.
Job Summary
Operates machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders to produce precision metal parts, both in small and large quantities. Ensures products meet precise specifications. Occasionally assembles mechanical components such as gearboxes and pumps. Performs other related tasks as assigned, some of which may become essential to the position.
Qualification Standards
High school education or equivalent is required. Technical school or Machinist Apprentice graduate preferred. Must have two years apprenticeship and three years experience in a machine shop or five years equivalent work experience. Proficient in using precision measurement tools and understanding both Imperial and Metric measuring systems as well shop mathematics, including geometry, trigonometry, decimals and fractions. Must have ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and be available to work any shift. Must comprehend written and verbal instruction, blueprints and specifications, and hear warning signals, read and comprehend safety instructions, regulations and warnings.
Essential Job Tasks
  • Machine parts to specifications using machine tools
  • Shape steel, aluminum, plastic, and other materials
  • Calculate dimensions using mathematics and measuring instruments
  • Select the appropriate tools and machines to be used in preparation of machinery work
  • Plan the sequence of cutting and finishing operations
  • Position and secure work piece on the drill press, lathe, milling machine, or other machines
  • Monitor and control feed rate and speed of parts being machined, to ensure optimum production rates and quality of parts produced
  • Detect and identify problems during manufacture; perform corrections as necessary, while maintaining technical requirements of the part(s) being produced
  • Check accuracy of finished parts against blueprints and specifications
  • Assemble mechanical components
  • Occasionally perform machining operations using portable equipment onboard ships
  • Other tasks as may be assigned relevant to the trade

Materials, Tools Equipment, Work Aids
Machining equipment such as drill, lathe, and milling machine, measuring equipment, such as micrometers and venire calipers, various hand and power tools, such as hammers, drills, grinder, welding equipment, cable cutters, electrical tape, electrical test equipment, blueprints, Navy standards manual, and cleaning equipment. Personal protective equipment required.
Physical/Mental Involvement
Frequent lifting up to 50 lbs, carrying, pulling, standing, balancing, walking, climbing ladders or equipment, reaching above shoulder or out in front, manual dexterity, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, stooping, hearing and occasionally lowering self into confined spaces, crawling through small openings and working in reclined positions, as needed. Must have color vision and good eye/and/foot coordination. Works in all areas of the shipyard and on board ships. Hearing warning signals and reading and comprehending safety instructions. Must be able to maintain general safety awareness and avoid hazard commonly present in employee's work area.
Marginal Job Tasks
Housekeeping in all work areas, including sweeping. May be required to attend safety, quality and/or process improvement meetings.
Environmental Factors
Exposure to fumes, odors, dust, gases, various climates and temperatures and low ventilation conditions, all of which can cause discomfort and/or respiratory difficulties. Exposure to constantly moving machines and mechanical parts and high levels of constant noise.
PAYSCALE: $34.43- $37.78
This pay range is a reasonable estimate of the hourly range for this role. It takes into account the wide range of factors considered in making compensation decisions; including but not limited to skill sets, experience, training, and education. General Dynamics NASSCO also provides a variety of benefits including medical & dental insurance coverage, 401(k) retirement savings plan, flexible spending accounts/HSAs, life and disability insurance, company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), wellness coaching, and an onsite health services.
his pay range is a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role. It takes into account the wide range of factors considered in making compensation decisions; including but not limited to skill sets, experience, training, and education. General Dynamics NASSCO also provides a variety of benefits including medical & dental insurance coverage, 401(k) retirement savings plan, flexible spending accounts/HSAs, life and disability insurance, company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), wellness coaching, and an onsite health services.
General Dynamics NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.
To learn more about applicant rights under federal law, click here:
Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal
If you have a disability that impacts your ability to complete the job application process and would like to request an accommodation, please contact our Human Resources Department.
Call (619) 544-8511 or email nasscohr@nassco.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only, not to inquire about the status of applications.