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Machine Shop Intern Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Solcoa Industries

Mechanical Engineering Intern

Alameda, CA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.50/hr

The Role - Mechanical Engineering Intern Join our hardware team and help turn designs into working ... Hands-on build experience from labs, clubs, internships, or personal projects (machine shop tools ...

Homee

Interior Design Intern

West Hollywood, CA · On-site

We're leveraging the latest advances in machine learning, NLP, and artificial intelligence to build ... You will be part of a small but powerful team that will help us change the way people shop on their ...

Homee

Interior Design Intern

West Hollywood, CA · On-site

We're leveraging the latest advances in machine learning, NLP, and artificial intelligence to build ... You will be part of a small but powerful team that will help us change the way people shop on their ...

Homee

Graphic Design Intern

West Hollywood, CA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

We're leveraging the latest advances in machine learning, NLP, and artificial intelligence to build ... You will be part of a small but powerful team that will help us change the way people shop on their ...

Homee

Graphic Design Intern

West Hollywood, CA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

We're leveraging the latest advances in machine learning, NLP, and artificial intelligence to build ... You will be part of a small but powerful team that will help us change the way people shop on their ...

1x

CNC Machine Park Internship

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

The Role As a CNC Machine Park Intern, you will support the daily operations of our CNC machine ... and shop organization. This role offers a clear path for technical growth and long-term ...

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All JobsMachine Shop Intern JobsMachine Shop Intern Jobs in California

Machine Shop Intern information

See California salary details

$8

$23

$60

How much do machine shop intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop intern in California is $23.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $27.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and hands-on experience can I expect as a machine shop intern?

As a Machine Shop Intern, you can expect to assist with a variety of machining projects, ranging from simple component fabrication to supporting larger assemblies under the supervision of experienced machinists. You'll likely gain hands-on experience operating manual and CNC machines, learning to read technical drawings, and practicing safety protocols. Interns often collaborate closely with engineers and technicians, providing support for prototyping, part finishing, and quality inspections. This exposure helps you build a strong foundation for a future career in precision manufacturing, machining, or mechanical engineering.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a machine shop intern?

To thrive as a Machine Shop Intern, you need a basic understanding of machining principles, safety protocols, and familiarity with mechanical tools, often supported by coursework in manufacturing or engineering. Experience with CNC machines, calipers, micrometers, and blueprint reading is commonly required, and OSHA safety certification can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure safe, precise work and successful collaboration in a hands-on, technical environment.

What does a machine shop intern do?

A Machine Shop Intern assists experienced machinists and engineers in a manufacturing or workshop environment. Their duties typically include operating basic machinery, helping with the setup and maintenance of equipment, performing measurements and inspections, and keeping the workspace organized. Interns also learn about safety procedures, machining techniques, and how to read technical drawings. This hands-on experience helps them develop practical skills that are valuable for a career in machining or manufacturing.

What is the difference between Machine Shop Intern vs Machinist?

AspectMachine Shop InternMachinist
CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recent graduate of technical or engineering programsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, learning-focused environment in machine shops or manufacturing facilitiesSkilled, hands-on work operating machinery in manufacturing or production settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with machine setup, learning machining processes, observing operationsOperating, setting up, and maintaining machine tools to produce parts

The main difference between a Machine Shop Intern and a Machinist is experience and responsibility level. Interns are typically students gaining exposure and learning, while machinists are skilled workers responsible for operating machinery and producing parts. Internships serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a professional machinist.

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 Intern jobs in California? For Machine Shop Intern jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Shop Intern jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Shop Intern jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Machine Shop Intern jobs? Cities in California with the most Machine Shop Intern job openings:
Machine Shop Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Intern job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,125 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Mechanical Engineering Intern

Solcoa Industries

Alameda, CA • On-site

$21.25 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Making the Metals Powering the World
Solcoa is building the next generation of American metalmaking, starting with rare earths - the metals of power and motion. We've developed a new chemistry that converts rare earth oxides into high-purity metals - the materials inside every EV, fighter jet, wind turbine, and data center - cleaner, cheaper, and faster than any conventional process. Now we're scaling it to thousands of tonnes of annual production.
The Role - Mechanical Engineering Intern
Join our hardware team and help turn designs into working systems. You'll support reactor subsystem design in CAD, assist with prototype builds and testing, and keep our documentation tight-working with engineers, machinists, and technicians to move quickly from concept to operation.
What You'll Do
  • Update and create CAD (Fusion) models/drawings, BOMs, and simple GD&T for thermal, vacuum, and handling subsystems.
  • Assist with prototype fabrication and assembly: cutting, drilling, tapping, fitting, and basic machining.
  • Help select components (valves, fittings, heaters, sensors) for high-temperature and vacuum environments under engineer guidance.
  • Run tests, collect/clean data, and summarize results to inform design iterations.
  • Perform leak checks, pressure tests, maintain organized logs.
  • Support vendor outreach, quotes, and purchasing; keep parts and tooling organized.
  • Contribute to safety-first culture and continuous improvement on the shop floor.
What You Bring
Required
  • Pursuing a BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • Working proficiency with CAD (Fusion preferred; SolidWorks ok).
  • Hands-on build experience from labs, clubs, internships, or personal projects (machine shop tools, 3D printing, or fabrication).
  • Detail-oriented, disciplined documentation, and reliable follow-through.
  • Comfortable in a fast-paced, hardware-centric environment and willing to get your hands dirty.
  • On-site availability; able to start soon.

Preferred
  • Exposure to high-temperature or vacuum systems (furnaces, pumps, flanges) and basic thermal/fluids coursework.
  • Simple analysis skills (hand calcs, spreadsheets; FEA/thermal tools a plus).
  • Welding or TIG familiarity; basic machining on mill/lathe.
  • Python/MATLAB for data analysis.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive hourly pay
  • Company-provided lunch daily
  • J1 Visa sponsorship available if needed

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