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Machine Shop Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Gerlinger Steel

Shop Helper - Day Shift

Woodland, CA

$15 - $19.25/hr

Our Woodland shop runs Monday through Friday, and this full-time shift position offers 40+ hour weeks. You'll be working with saws, shears, press brakes, and plate rolls to prefabricate components ...

Vast

Supervisor, E-2 Machine Shop

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

You will be a key member who will help transition the system from development to production. This ... Enforce safety protocols in the machine shop. * Identify training needs for the team. * Develop and ...

Ducommun

General Helper 1st Shift Temp to Hire

Orange, CA · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

General Helper Temp to Hire Assist shop personnel with a variety of support tasks that are based on ... 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 Temp to Hire Assist shop personnel with a variety of support tasks that are based on ... 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 · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

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

Singer Electric Co Inc

Be Seen First

Motor Cleaning Helper / Driver - Electric Motor Shop

Placentia, CA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

We are seeking a dependable and motivated Motor Cleaning Helper who can also serve as a company ... and organized shop work area. · Follow all Singer Electric safety procedures and Cal/OSHA ...

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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 Jun 9, 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 job?

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:
Machine Shop Helper jobs near you

Machine Shop Assistant

Ensign-Bickford Industries

Moorpark, CA

$28 - $35/hr

Other

Posted 26 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.

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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