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Machine Shop Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Machine Shop General Helper

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

In this role, you'll help maintain a clean, safe, and organized shop environment, assist with basic facilities upkeep, and support preventative maintenance and repairs on machines and equipment. You ...

Freeform

Machine Shop General Helper

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

In this role, you'll help maintain a clean, safe, and organized shop environment, assist with basic facilities upkeep, and support preventative maintenance and repairs on machines and equipment. You ...

Freeform

Machine Shop General Helper

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

In this role, you'll help maintain a clean, safe, and organized shop environment, assist with basic facilities upkeep, and support preventative maintenance and repairs on machines and equipment. You ...

alu

CNC Machine Shop Lead - 1st Shift

Santa Ana, CA

$23.76 - $32.68/hr

We are looking for a CNC Machine Shop Lead who will oversee all operations performed by the ... Supervisors and Managers (as needed). * Assist, as needed, Quality staff by providing ...

alu

CNC Machine Shop Lead - 2nd Shift

Santa Ana, CA

$23.76 - $32.68/hr

We are looking for a CNC Machine Shop Lead who will oversee all operations performed by the ... Supervisors and Managers (as needed). * Assist, as needed, Quality staff by providing ...

Kilgore Machine Co., Inc.

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Quality Inspector / Aerospace Machine Shop

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

... and resolve them * Assist in implementing and improving quality control procedures and ... machine shop, aerospace CNC lathes and mills

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Machine Shop Assistant information

What are some common challenges faced by a Machine Shop Assistant, and how can they be managed effectively?

Machine Shop Assistants often face challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols while working around heavy machinery, managing multiple tasks like material handling and equipment cleaning, and adapting to varying production schedules. Effective time management and consistent communication with machinists and supervisors can help address these challenges. Additionally, staying organized and proactive in identifying potential hazards contributes to a safer and more efficient workplace.

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

To thrive as a Machine Shop Assistant, you need a basic understanding of machining processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, measuring instruments like calipers and micrometers, and sometimes CNC machinery or safety certifications is typical. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong teamwork skills help you excel in supporting machinists and maintaining workflow. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient operations and contribute to producing high-quality machined parts.

What is the difference between Machine Shop Assistant vs Machinist?

AspectMachine Shop AssistantMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingTechnical training or apprenticeship; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in machine setup, cleaning, and material handling in machine shopsOperates and programs machines like lathes and mills in manufacturing settings
Job ResponsibilitiesSupports machinists, prepares materials, maintains equipmentSets up, operates, and monitors machining equipment to produce parts

While both roles work in machine shops, the Machine Shop Assistant primarily supports machinists by handling preparatory and maintenance tasks, whereas the Machinist directly operates and programs machines to produce precise parts. The assistant role often requires less technical training, making it an entry point into the industry.

What are the main duties of a Machine Shop Assistant?

A Machine Shop Assistant supports machinists and technicians by preparing materials, operating basic machinery, cleaning and maintaining equipment, and organizing the workspace. They often assist with loading and unloading materials, measuring parts, and ensuring that tools and machines are in good working order. These assistants play a vital role in keeping the shop running smoothly and efficiently, often performing routine tasks so skilled machinists can focus on more complex work.
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 Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Machine Shop Assistant job openings:
Machine Shop Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Assistant job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Machine Shop Assistant

Ensign-Bickford Industries

Moorpark, CA

$28 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

This opportunity is located within our Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company business, a global leader of mission-critical hardware and systems solutions including precision energetics systems and innovative explosive solutions.Click here to learn more.

Job Description

Job Title: Machine Shop Assistant

Department: Machine Shop / Manufacturing
Reports To: Machine Shop Supervisor
Location: Aerospace Manufacturing Facility

Job Summary

The Machining Assistant supports daily production activities in an aerospace machine shop. This role is responsible for assisting machinists with tooling preparation, part handling, deburring, packaging, equipment maintenance, and laser marking. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and capable of working in a regulated aerospace manufacturing environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Tooling Support

    • Assist machinists with tool preparation, presetting, cleaning, and organization
    • Help maintain tooling inventory and report worn or damaged tools
    • Ensure tooling is properly labeled, stored, and handled

  • Deburring & Part Finishing

    • Perform manual deburring, edge breaking, and basic finishing per work instructions
    • Use hand tools, abrasives, and pneumatic tools safely and effectively
    • Ensure parts meet dimensional, visual, and cosmetic requirements

  • Packaging & Shipping Preparation

    • Package machined parts per aerospace specifications to prevent damage or contamination
    • Apply proper identification, labeling, and documentation
    • Assist with kitting and preparation for internal or external processing

  • Laser Marking

    • Operate laser marking equipment under established procedures
    • Verify part orientation, marking location, and content per drawings or customer requirements
    • Inspect marked parts for clarity, accuracy, and compliance

  • Assembly

    • Performs manual/mechanized assembly operations
    • Responsible for adhering to all safety and quality requirements
    • Process specifications using hand tools, machinery, air presses, jigs and other equipment and tooling
    • Must be able to follow work instructions

  • Shop Maintenance & Organization

    • Assist with machine cleaning, chip removal, and coolant maintenance
    • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area (5S practices)
    • Perform basic preventive maintenance tasks as directed

  • Quality & Safety

    • Follow all safety rules, PPE requirements, and shop procedures
    • Comply with aerospace quality standards (AS9100, ITAR, customer requirements)
    • Report nonconforming parts, damaged equipment, or safety concerns promptly

  • Additional Responsibilities

    • Support production flow and meet delivery schedules
    • Assist with other shop tasks as needed
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to read and follow work instructions and shop travelers
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and hand tool experience
  • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for extended periods
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Willingness to follow strict safety and quality requirements
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous experience in a machine shop or manufacturing environment
  • Familiarity with aerospace parts and documentation
  • Experience with deburring, laser marking, or packaging precision components
  • Basic understanding of blueprints and GD&T
  • Forklift or shop equipment experience (a plus)
Work Environment
  • Manufacturing shop environment with exposure to machinery, noise, oils, and metal chips
  • Required use of PPE including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection
Physical Demands
  • Standing and walking for long periods
  • Frequent bending, reaching, and handling of parts and tools
  • Manual dexterity and good hand-eye coordination required

Compensation:

Hourly Range: $28.00 - 35.00 per hour. Salary is determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.

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