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Machine Shop Apprentice Jobs in Palmdale, CA (NOW HIRING)

Manual Machinist

Pasadena, CA ยท On-site

$24 - $32.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Completion of a machinist apprentice program or equivalent training * Ability to hold close ... Four years of experience in machine shop operations * Willingness to work in a team environment

New

Engineering Technician

Saugus, CA ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

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 ...

Engineering Technician

Saugus, CA ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

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 ...

Manual Machinist

Los Angeles, CA

$23.75 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Milling Machine Machinist 3

Palmdale, CA ยท On-site

$23.50 - $31.25/hr

... shop computations; and measures, marks, and scribes dimensions and reference points to lay out ... Requires completion of a formal apprenticeship or equivalent training and experience. * Exclude ...

1648: Milling Machine Machinist 2

Palmdale, CA ยท On-site

$23.50 - $31.25/hr

Perform standard shop calculations and layout work. * Inspect completed parts and support quality ... Completion of formal apprenticeship, technical training, or equivalent machining experience.

Tool & Die Maker Specialist

Burbank, CA ยท On-site

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Sets up and uses all tool room tools and machine shop equipment such as lathes, mills, shapers, grinders, jig bores, and drill presses to shape, grind, CNC equipment or drill all types of tools, dies ...

Sets up and uses all tool room tools and machine shop equipment such as lathes, mills, shapers, grinders, jig bores, and drill presses to shape, grind, CNC equipment or drill all types of tools, dies ...

Milling Machinist 1 & 2

Palmdale, CA ยท On-site

$32.75 - $43.50/hr

Selects, mounts, and aligns various specialized machine attachments and standard or improvised ... Requires completion of a formal apprenticeship or equivalent training and experience. Exclude ...

Milling Machinist 1 & 2

Palmdale, CA ยท On-site

$23.50 - $31.25/hr

Selects, mounts, and aligns various specialized machine attachments and standard or improvised ... Requires completion of a formal apprenticeship or equivalent training and experience. Exclude ...

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Machine Shop Apprentice information

See Palmdale, CA salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do machine shop apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop apprentice in Palmdale, CA is $21.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $23.37 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 Palmdale, CA? The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in Palmdale, CA are:
What cities near Palmdale, CA are hiring for Machine Shop Apprentice jobs? Cities near Palmdale, CA with the most Machine Shop Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Apprentice job openings in Palmdale, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,841 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Manual Machinist

Sulzer AG

Pasadena, CA โ€ข On-site

$24 - $32.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Sulzer is a leading engineering company with a proud heritage of innovation. Join our global team to grow your expertise and develop innovative solutions that enable a prosperous and more sustainable society.

About the role Job Summary
Sets up and operates machine tools, including HBM, VBM, lathes, milling machines, ID/OD grinders, planers, and bore, without assistance, following department policy and procedures manual, to manufacture and recondition component parts to customer, OEM and industry standards. Interprets mechanical drawings, blueprints, and sketches and performs precision metal cutting, grinding, shaping and fitting. Measures components, parts, and raw materials with precision measuring instruments, gauges, and tools. Works under limited supervision.

Pasadena, Texas

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Performs layouts, sets up, and operates conventional machine tools as required
  • Reads and interprets all drawings, including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
  • Designs setups and methods where none exist
  • Instructs other shop personnel in proper machining techniques
  • Continually improving methods to deliver higher quality with improved costs

TO SUCCEED IN THIS ROLE, YOU WILL NEED:

  • Completion of a machinist apprentice program or equivalent training
  • Ability to hold close tolerances and conduct component inspections
  • Ability to setup machine tools: ID / OD Grinders, Turret Lathe, Engine Lathe, Horizontal Boring Mill, Vertical Boring Mill, Radial Drill, Planer Mill
  • Four years of experience in machine shop operations
  • Willingness to work in a team environment
  • Openness to working overtime as required

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Completion of a machinist apprentice program or equivalent training
  • Ability to hold close tolerances and conduct component inspections
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively set up all, or at least most, of the following machines: I.D./O.D. Grinder, Turret Lathe, Engine Lathe, Knee Mill, Radial Drill, Horizontal Boring Mill, Vertical Boring Mill, and Planer Mill
  • Ability to perform with a minimum of direct supervision
  • Working knowledge of tool geometry and application
  • Working knowledge of effects of feeds and speeds
  • 4 years experience in machine shops on the above equipment
  • Willingness to work in a team environment
  • Ability to work overtime as required

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • While performing duties of this job, would occasionally be required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop or kneel, talk and hear, and use fingers and hands to feel objects.
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds

The above is intended to describe the general content of, and requirements for, the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.

What we offer you

Paid parental leave
Parental leave
Health insurance
401(k) matching
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Health savings account
Dental insurance
Gym membership
Employee assistance program
Disability insurance
401(k) 6% Match
Paid holidays
Wellness program


Sulzer is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in the strength of a diverse workforce and are committed to offering an inclusive work environment.

We are proud to be recognized as a Top Employer 2026 in Brazil, Canada, China, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Switzerland, South Africa, the UK and the USA.