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Machine Shop Lead Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Shop Senior Technician

Riverside, CA · On-site

$38.74 - $48.44/hr

You will help keep machinery running safely and reliably - supporting both Quinn customers and ... Lead and Field Premium Tool Allowance Program Tool Insurance Coverage Company Provided Uniforms ...

You will help keep machinery running safely and reliably -- supporting both Quinn customers and ... Lead and Field Premium Tool Allowance Program Tool Insurance Coverage Company Provided Uniforms ...

Shop Senior Technician

Riverside, CA · On-site

$38.74 - $48.44/hr

You will help keep machinery running safely and reliably - supporting both Quinn customers and ... Lead and Field Premium Tool Allowance Program Tool Insurance Coverage Company Provided Uniforms ...

You will help keep machinery running safely and reliably - supporting both Quinn customers and ... Lead and Field Premium Tool Allowance Program Tool Insurance Coverage Company Provided Uniforms ...

This person will conduct diverse activities related to machine shop operation and be able to work ... Sr., Lead or Manager). The compensation range for these roles are $30.00 - $50.00 an hour. #LI ...

Embrace this opportunity to lead the way in machining and be a crucial part of our commitment to ... Possess basic machine shop math skills and ability to perform calculations. * Perform First Article ...

Embrace this opportunity to lead the way in machining and be a crucial part of our commitment to ... Possess basic machine shop math skills and ability to perform calculations. * Perform First Article ...

Embrace this opportunity to lead the way in machining and be a crucial part of our commitment to ... Possess basic machine shop math skills and ability to perform calculations. * Perform First Article ...

Lead endtoend manufacturing operations for the Irvine site, including assembly, machine shop, clean room, manufacturing engineering, and production planning, with full accountability for safety ...

CNC Programmer/Machinist

Grand Terrace, CA

$26.25 - $35.75/hr

... coworkers, lead, supervisor and internal/external customers * Strong understanding of GD&T ... Maintains all machine shop programs for consistency, accuracy and efficiency. * Read and interpret ...

CNC Programmer/Machinist

Grand Terrace, CA · On-site

$26.25 - $35.75/hr

... coworkers, lead, supervisor and internal/external customers * Strong understanding of GD&T ... Maintains all machine shop programs for consistency, accuracy and efficiency. * Read and interpret ...

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Showing results 1-20

Machine Shop Lead information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$38.1K

$79.7K

$124.7K

How much do machine shop lead jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine shop lead in Riverside, CA is $79,651.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,500.00 and $93,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Machine Shop Lead, you need solid experience in machining processes, blueprint reading, and shop safety, often supported by a technical diploma or relevant apprenticeship. Proficiency with CNC machines, CAD/CAM software, and familiarity with quality control systems is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams and coordinate production efficiently. These abilities are crucial for maintaining workflow, ensuring precision manufacturing, and upholding safety and quality standards in a fast-paced environment.

How does a Machine Shop Lead typically balance hands-on technical work with supervisory responsibilities?

As a Machine Shop Lead, you are expected to split your time between overseeing daily shop operations and participating directly in machining tasks. This often means supervising team members, coordinating workflow, ensuring quality standards, and troubleshooting equipment issues, while also stepping in to operate machinery or handle complex jobs when needed. Balancing these duties requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. Leads frequently act as the main point of contact between machinists and management, helping to resolve challenges and facilitate communication across the team.

What does a Machine Shop Lead do?

A Machine Shop Lead oversees daily operations in a machine shop, guiding machinists and technicians to ensure production goals and quality standards are met. They coordinate workflow, assign tasks, and provide technical expertise on the use of machinery and equipment. Additionally, they are responsible for maintaining safety protocols, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring machines are properly maintained. The role often involves training new staff, monitoring inventory, and collaborating with engineers or management to improve processes.

What is the difference between Machine Shop Lead vs Machinist?

AspectMachine Shop LeadMachinist
CredentialsOften requires experience and leadership skills, certifications varyTypically requires technical training or certifications in machining
Work EnvironmentSupervises and coordinates shop activities, oversees teamOperates machines, performs precision machining tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive industriesCommon in similar industries, focused on machining tasks

The Machine Shop Lead oversees machining operations and manages team members, while the Machinist focuses on operating machines and producing parts. The Lead has more supervisory responsibilities, whereas the Machinist is hands-on with machining tasks. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, but the Lead combines technical skills with leadership.

What are popular job titles related to Machine Shop Lead jobs in Riverside, CA? For Machine Shop Lead jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Shop Lead jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Shop Lead jobs in Riverside, CA are:
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Lead job openings in Riverside, CA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,651 per year, or $38.3 per hour.
Machinist Leadership Opportunities

Machinist Leadership Opportunities

Applied Medical

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

$20 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Applied Medical rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Applied Medical is a new generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field.  Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute in a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.


Position Description

As a leader at Applied Medical, you will play a pivotal role in driving the success of the CNC machining department and supporting our mission of excellence in manufacturing. In this position, you will guide a team of skilled machinists, ensure production goals are met, and champion continuous improvement initiatives that enhance quality, efficiency, and workflow. This is an opportunity to grow your leadership capabilities while contributing directly to the performance and development of a critical manufacturing operation.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide clear direction and daily oversight to the CNC machining team to ensure production schedules, quality standards, and safety protocols are consistently met.
  • Monitor machine utilization, workflow, and output to maintain operational stability and meet production commitments.
  • Oversee daytoday activities of CNC machinists, including task assignment, workload balancing, and performance management.
  • Coach, mentor, and develop team members to strengthen technical skills, problemsolving abilities, and overall performance.
  • Identify and implement opportunities to improve machining processes, including updating machine parameters, conducting efficiency studies, and performing capacity analysis.
  • Collaborate with engineering and quality teams to support process validation, tooling improvements, and equipment optimization.
  • Foster open communication within the machining department and across crossfunctional teams to coordinate workflow, resolve issues, and support organizational goals.
  • Communicate expectations clearly and ensure alignment on priorities, timelines, and quality requirements.
  • Ensure strict adherence to Applied Medical’s Quality Systems (QS), including SOPs, MIs, QIs, TMs, engineering drawings, and shop order operations and sequences.
  • Promote a culture of safety, compliance, and accountability throughout the department.

Success in This Role Looks Like

  • Production targets are consistently achieved through effective planning, prioritization, and team leadership.
  • Quality standards remain high, with strong adherence to Applied Medical’s Quality Systems and documentation requirements.
  • The CNC machining team operates as a cohesive, highperforming unit with clear expectations, balanced workloads, and ongoing development.
  • Continuous improvement initiatives lead to measurable gains in throughput, efficiency, and machine utilization.
  • Communication flows smoothly across teams, enabling quick issue resolution and strong crossdepartmental alignment.
  • Safety protocols are reinforced daily, resulting in a safe, compliant, and wellorganized work environment.
  • Technical challenges are addressed proactively, with sound judgment and a solutionsoriented mindset.

Position Requirements

This position requires the following skills and attributes:

  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in a machine shop environment, ideally with exposure to spring forming and/or stamping equipment such as FMU 16, FMU 23, Bruderer, BSTA 510, BSTA 810, or Saga machines.
  • Strong ability to perform advanced troubleshooting and problem-solving on CNC machinery and related equipment.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in a manufacturing setting, including directing daily activities, training team members, and coordinating workflow.
  • Ability to work a 2nd shift schedule and support operational needs as required.
  • Proven capability to ensure full compliance with Applied Medical’s Quality Systems (QS), including SOPs, MIs, QIs, TMs, engineering drawings, and shop order operations and sequences.
  •  

Preferred

The following skills and attributes are preferred:

  • Flexibility to work extended or variable hours based on production needs.
  • Exceptional attention to detail, ensuring the highest quality and consistency of finished components.
  • Openness to exploring and adopting innovative machining techniques, tools, and technologies.
  • Strong adaptability with the ability to adjust quickly to changes in processes, equipment, or production priorities.
  • Experience operating or supporting machines such as Star, Citizen, Deco, Makino, and/or Matsuura.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively in a teamoriented, fastpaced manufacturing environment.
  •  

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation range: $20 - $35 / hour (California).
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • Training and mentorship opportunities.
  • On-campus wellness activities.
  • Education reimbursement program.
  • 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
  • Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.

Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well-being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.

All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to 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 (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.

Qualifications:

This position requires the following skills and attributes:

  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in a machine shop environment, ideally with exposure to spring forming and/or stamping equipment such as FMU 16, FMU 23, Bruderer, BSTA 510, BSTA 810, or Saga machines.
  • Strong ability to perform advanced troubleshooting and problem-solving on CNC machinery and related equipment.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in a manufacturing setting, including directing daily activities, training team members, and coordinating workflow.
  • Ability to work a 2nd shift schedule and support operational needs as required.
  • Proven capability to ensure full compliance with Applied Medical’s Quality Systems (QS), including SOPs, MIs, QIs, TMs, engineering drawings, and shop order operations and sequences.
  •  
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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