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Machine Shop Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MACHINE SHOP GENERAL HELPER Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software, hardware, and physics to produce industrial-scale parts at the speed of human ideation. By treating ...

MACHINE SHOP GENERAL HELPER Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software, hardware, and physics to produce industrial-scale parts at the speed of human ideation. By treating ...

MACHINE SHOP GENERAL HELPER Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software, hardware, and physics to produce industrial-scale parts at the speed of human ideation. By treating ...

Shop Helper

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

We support a wide range of CNC machinery, includinglaser cutting systems, press brakes, robotic ... XOVR CNC Parts &Service is seeking a dependable and hardworking Shop Helper tosupport our team in ...

Shop Maintenance Helper Our company is seeking a reliable Shop Maintenance Helper to join our team ... and machinery - Perform routine inspections of tools and equipment to ensure they are in good ...

Ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the world of machines, metal, and making cool stuff? We're on the hunt for a sharp, reliable, and motivated individual to join our machine shop team. No ...

Ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the world of machines, metal, and making cool stuff? We're on the hunt for a sharp, reliable, and motivated individual to join our machine shop team. No ...

Shop Helper

Oakland, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Shop Maintenance Helper Our company is seeking a reliable Shop Maintenance Helper to join our team ... and machinery - Perform routine inspections of tools and equipment to ensure they are in good ...

Shop Helper

Oakland, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Job Title: Shop Maintenance Helper Our company is seeking a reliable Shop Maintenance Helper to ... and machinery - Perform routine inspections of tools and equipment to ensure they are in good ...

Shop Helper

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The Shop Helper provides essential support to the Service Department by assisting Technicians, Service Advisors, and the Parts Department with daily operations. This position helps maintain an ...

Machine Operator

Fremont, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $24/hr

Overview Ichor Systems in Fremont, CA has an immediate opening for a Machine Operator - General Machine Shop helper for the weldment (stainless steel and aluminum fittings) manufacturing site. This ...

Grinder/shop Helper

Irwindale, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Operate hand tools, power tools, and shop machinery in a safe and efficient manner. * Perform ... year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals ...

Machine Shop Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Help us build a high-energy society by making the cleanest, safest form of baseload energy the most affordable. About This Role We're standing up a new manufacturing facility and need a Machine Shop ...

Help us build a high-energy society by making the cleanest, safest form of baseload energy the most affordable. About This Role We're standing up a new manufacturing facility and need a Machine Shop ...

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Machine Shop Helper information

See California salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do machine shop helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop helper in California is $17.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine shop helper?

A Machine Shop Helper supports machinists and other workers by performing tasks such as material handling, cleaning equipment, and assisting with basic machine operations. They help keep the shop organized, maintain tools, and ensure a safe work environment. This role requires attention to detail, the ability to follow instructions, and basic mechanical skills. It is an entry-level position that provides hands-on experience in a manufacturing setting.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a machine shop helper?

Machine Shop Helpers typically assist machinists by preparing materials, maintaining a clean and organized work area, and transporting parts or tools as needed. Their day often includes using basic hand tools, operating cleaning equipment, performing routine maintenance on machinery, and ensuring all work areas comply with safety standards. Helpers may also be responsible for setting up or breaking down equipment, helping with inventory, and supporting quality control checks. Working closely with machinists and other shop staff provides valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to learn about advanced machine operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the machine shop helper position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Shop Helper, you need a solid understanding of basic mechanical skills, familiarity with hand and power tools, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with measurement instruments like calipers and micrometers, and knowledge of safety protocols such as OSHA standards, are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and good communication skills help you stand out in this supportive role. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, supporting machinists effectively, and ensuring the smooth operation of shop activities.

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 Helper jobs in California?

For Machine Shop Helper jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Machine Shop Helper jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Machine Shop Helper jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Machine Shop Helper jobs?

Cities in California with the most Machine Shop Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Shop Helper job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,360 per year, or $18 per hour.

Machine Shop General Helper

Freeform

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

MACHINE SHOP GENERAL HELPER
Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software, hardware, and physics to produce industrial-scale parts at the speed of human ideation. By treating manufacturing as a single integrated system, we unlock a new era of innovation where complex hardware is designed, built, and scaled without limits.
As a General Helper in our Machine Shop, you'll support critical day-to-day activities in Freeform's state-of-the-art metal 3D printing factory. 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'll also have the chance to learn directly from experienced machinists and technicians, gaining hands-on exposure to a wide range of manufacturing tools and processes along the way. The right candidate is dependable, eager to learn, and has a "no job too big or small" mentality.
3D printing experience is not required to be successful here - rather we look for smart, motivated, collaborative individuals who love solving hard problems and creating amazing technology!
Responsibilities:
  • Support general shop upkeep, including sweeping, mopping, organizing tools and supplies, and ensuring clean, safe working areas
  • Assist with preventative maintenance tasks and minor equipment repairs across the machine shop
  • Help manage materials and consumables (coolant, rags, gloves, etc.) and support restocking and inventory
  • Maintain safe work practices and help enforce cleanliness and organization standards in shared spaces
  • Learn to operate basic hand tools and develop foundational knowledge of shop equipment and systems
  • Learn how to support post-print operations such as vacuuming powder, removing finished parts from the system, and cleaning parts (as training progresses)
  • Gain exposure to manufacturing tools including lathes, mills, bandsaws, grinders, precision drills, and wire EDMs

Basic Qualifications:
  • 1+ years of experience in manufacturing, facilities support, warehouse operations, logistics, or similar operational role

Nice to Have:
  • Formal hardware-centric technical training/certification (A&P license, NTMA license)
  • Exposure to metal manufacturing
  • Ability to utilize power tools, hand tools, cranes, forklifts and other heavy equipment
  • Experience maintaining facility systems with a focus on air, water and cryogenic inert gas systems
  • Experience using a forklift
  • Extremely humble and positive attitude
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 30lbs unassisted
  • Ability to climb ladders and be on your feet for extended periods of time
  • Must be available and willing to work overtime when needed

Location:
  • Based in Hawthorne, our vertically integrated facility brings technology development, R&D, and production together under one roof. We operate at the center of LA's deep tech ecosystem, surrounded by some of the most ambitious hardware innovation happening anywhere in the country.
  • Our fast-paced, cross-functional environment is built on close collaboration, and as such, this role requires full-time onsite presence (five days a week), with very limited exceptions.

What We Offer:
  • We have an inclusive and diverse culture that values collaboration, learning, and making deliberate data-driven decisions.
  • We offer a unique opportunity to be an early and integral member of a rapidly growing company that is scaling a world-changing technology.
  • Benefits
    • Significant stock option packages
    • 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance (premium PPO and HMO options)
    • Life insurance
    • Traditional and Roth 401(k)
    • Relocation assistance provided
    • Paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays
    • Generous Paid Parental Leave and extended transition back to work for the birthing parent
    • Free daily catered lunch and dinner, and fully stocked kitchenette
    • Casual dress, flexible work hours, and regular catered team building events
  • Compensation
    • As a growing company, the salary range is intentionally wide as we determine the most appropriate package for each individual taking into consideration years of experience, educational background, and unique skills and abilities as demonstrated throughout the interview process. Our intent is to offer a salary that is commensurate for the company's current stage of development and allows the employee to grow and develop within a role.
    • In addition to the significant stock option package, the estimated pay range for this role is $20-22/hour. The upper end of the range is reserved for individuals who demonstrate exceptional experience, deep domain mastery, and a proven history of high performance and impact.
  • Freeform is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity; employment with Freeform is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.