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Machine Shop Assistant Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

alu

CNC Machine Shop Lead - 1st Shift

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$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 · On-site

$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 · On-site

$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 ...

Eaton

Machine Shop Operator - 3rd Shift

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$23.40/hr

The Machine Shop Operator - 3rd Shift role offers a 32.5 hour work week with a $3.00/hour shift ... To request a disability-related reasonable accommodation to assist you in your job search ...

Ducommun

General Helper 1st Shift Temp to Hire

Orange, CA

$16 - $20.50/hr

General Helper Assist shop personnel with a variety of support tasks that are based on department ... Lifts metal part or stock onto machine and secures it on machine table, in chuck, or holding ...

Ducommun

General Helper 1st Shift Temp to Hire

Orange, CA

$16 - $20.50/hr

General Helper Assist shop personnel with a variety of support tasks that are based on department ... Lifts metal part or stock onto machine and secures it on machine table, in chuck, or holding ...

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All JobsMachine Shop JobsMachine Shop Assistant JobsMachine Shop Assistant Jobs in Irvine, CA

Machine Shop Assistant information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$14

$19

$24

How much do machine shop assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop assistant in Irvine, CA is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine shop assistant?

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 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 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 qualifications do you need to work in a machine shop assistant?

A machine shop assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent and basic mechanical skills. Experience with hand tools, knowledge of safety procedures, and the ability to read technical drawings are also important qualifications for the role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Shop jobs in Irvine, CA?

The most popular types of Machine Shop jobs in Irvine, CA are:

What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Machine Shop Assistant jobs?

Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Machine Shop Assistant job openings:

Machine Shop Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Assistant job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,306 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Day & Night Shift Machine Shop Assistant/Helper

ACROMIL LLC

Corona, CA • On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Career Opportunity – Machine Shop Helper - Acromil LLC - Corona Day & Night Shift

Our Company

Using state-of-the-art technology, Acromil LLC, has been a primary supplier in the Aerospace and Defense industry for complex structural components since 1959. Acromil pursued a vision to provide the highest quality product, competitive price and on time delivery within a culture of integrity and pride. Our success in achieving this vision is derived from our excellence in Manufacturing, Engineering/Programming and Quality Control.

Our Opportunity

The selected individual will perform general duties in the machine shop related to machines and equipment, parts processing, and housekeeping. Requires limited knowledge of production processes and supports machine operators and other skilled production workers. Specific duties below:

  • Place or position equipment or partially assembled product for further processing, manually, or using hoist/crane.
  • Remove product, machine attachments, and waste material from machine.
  • Load and unload processing equipment or conveyance used to receive raw materials or to ship finished products.
  • Dump materials into machine hopper prior to mixing.
  • Bench / deburr product as needed with established tooling and/or machines per blueprint specifications.
  • Signal coworkers to facilitate moving product, during processing.
  • Replace damaged or worn equipment parts, ensures necessary tools for a particular job are at the work center.
  • Tend to equipment to facilitate process.
  • Mark or tag identification on parts.
  • Observe operation and notify equipment operator of malfunctions.
  • Perform other duties and projects as assigned by Management.

Job Requirements

Qualified individuals will have 1 years related work experience in an Aerospace Manufacturing environment performing similar duties as above.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to sit; reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance. The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Must have the ability to be trained and certified as a Forklift & Crane Operator.

Person must be an United States (US) Person as defined by ITAR Regulations - A United States (US) Person is a citizen of the United States, a lawful permanent resident alien of the US, (a "Green Card" holder), a refugee or someone in the USA as a protected political asylee or under amnesty.

Benefits

We offer Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and a 401(k) plan with Employer’s match, safety incentives and an employee referral bonus program. We also provide paid holidays, vacation and sick days.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.