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

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 ...

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 ...

Associate, Maintenance Lead

Ontario, CA · On-site

$28.16 - $35.20/hr

A day in the life of a Maintenance Lead at VF looks a little like this. Perform moderately complex ... machine shop equipment and automated packaging machinery. * Must demonstrate ability to be very ...

Associate, Maintenance Lead

Ontario, CA · On-site

$28.16 - $35.20/hr

A day in the life of a Maintenance Lead at VF looks a little like this. Perform moderately complex ... machine shop equipment and automated packaging machinery. * Must demonstrate ability to be very ...

Machinist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$98K - $130K/yr

This role will include fabricating high-quality parts from a cutting edge machine shop as well as ... Help lead the organization, machine maintenance and cleanliness of the work area. REQUIRED ...

STACKER

La Verne, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Degrease all materiel in the degreaser bar, fin, braze sheet, ice guard side plates, machine shop ... Communicate effectively with lead, warehouse, and shipping teams Other Responsibilities Fabrication ...

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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 Jul 18, 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 is a machine lead job description?

A machine shop lead oversees the operation of manufacturing equipment, ensuring production meets quality and safety standards. They coordinate team activities, troubleshoot machinery, and may be responsible for training staff and maintaining equipment. Strong technical skills, knowledge of machining processes, and leadership abilities are essential for this role.

What does a lead machinist do?

A lead machinist oversees machining operations, directs team members, and ensures parts are produced accurately and efficiently. They typically set up, operate, and troubleshoot CNC machines or manual equipment, and may also review blueprints and quality standards. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and leadership abilities are essential for this role.

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.

Can you make 6 figures as a machinist?

Machine Shop Leads and experienced machinists can potentially earn six-figure salaries, especially with advanced skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand industries or specialized machining. Factors such as location, employer, and overtime opportunities also influence earning potential. Entry-level machinists typically earn less, but salaries increase with expertise and leadership roles.

What is the highest paying machining job?

The highest paying machining jobs are often advanced roles such as CNC programmer, manufacturing engineer, or precision machining manager, which require specialized skills, certifications, and experience. These positions typically offer higher salaries due to increased responsibility and technical expertise in operating complex machinery and overseeing production processes.

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,651 per year, or $38.3 per hour.
Fabricator- 2nd Shift

Fabricator- 2nd Shift

Super Color Digital, LLC

Irvine, CA • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY/OBEJECTIVE:

Qualified candidates should have a minimum of 3+ year's experience in a fabrication environment and are proficient in reading and understanding build drawings, can work well with a team and can handle multiple aspects of metal fabrication (cutting, bending, mill work, finishing and assembly). Employees are responsible for analyzing assembly drawings, measuring material and cutting them to appropriate size and shape. The merchandise that is created in this area must have perfect dimensions and must be crafted without inconsistencies. Any questions regarding the assembly of the materials are to be communicated to the CAD draftsperson/Fabrication Foreman.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Operates fabrication shop and machine shop machinery and equipment.
  • Measures workpiece dimensions to determine accuracy of the work piece.
  • Removes burrs, sharp edges, rust or scale from workpiece.
  • Assemble work pieces to job specs.
  • Operates any equipment needed to perform job.
  • Performs related duties as assigned by department lead or department supervisor.

COMPETENCIES:

  • Communication Proficiency (verbal-written communication)
  • Flexibility
  • Initiative
  • Learning Orientation
  • Personal Effectiveness/Credibility
  • Problem Solving/Analysis
  • Multitask
  • Mechanical Aptitude
  • Technical Capacity
  • Teamwork Orientation
  • Understand the basics of Industrial Safety, Health and Environmental.
  • Avoid injuries and must ask for help from other suitable employees when lifting heavy objects over 50 lbs. and/or large dimensions with 47 or more inches long. Using proper lifting techniques and proper lifting equipment.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

No direct supervisory duties.

POSITION TYPE / EXPECTED HOURSOF WORK:

This position might require long hours and occasional weekend work to follow up with specific projects assigned, due to a wide variety of fabrication jobs that require short lead times and quick turnarounds.

Other duties:

Please note this Job Description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

PREFER EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS PREFERRED:

  • Minimum High School diploma or equivalent experience required.
  • 3+ years experience in a fabrication environment.
  • Must know how to read a tape measure and calipers.
  • Must know how to read and understand build drawings.
  • Basic knowledge and experience with metal shop equipment including table saws, mitter saws, drill presses, rolling equipment, mill, lathe and metal shears.
  • Some electrical and soldering knowledge is a plus.
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time and lift 50 pounds. Applying safety rules and techniques.
  • Ability to understand and apply safety practices regarding all machinery and tool usage.
  • Open and available to work overtime including weekends.