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Machine Shop Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Freeform

Machine Shop General Helper

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

MACHINE SHOP GENERAL HELPER Freeform builds AI-native manufacturing systems that unify software ... Help manage materials and consumables (coolant, rags, gloves, etc.) and support restocking and ...

Axon

Senior Machinist / Shop Manager

San Francisco, CA

$25.50 - $35/hr

With your input, we intend to acquire a more capable CNC mill, ideally a HAAS machine to leverage ... Responsibilities will be split between part fabrication and overall shop management. 50% Prototype ...

Axon

Senior Machinist / Shop Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $35/hr

Work independently to troubleshoot machine operations, optimize toolpaths, machine set ups, general machine maintenance as well as adapting to changing priorities. * Coordinate with other Axon shop ...

alu

CNC Machine Shop Lead - 1st Shift

Santa Ana, CA

$23.76 - $32.68/hr

We are looking for a CNC Machine Shop Lead who will oversee all operations performed by the ... Perform any other duties not mentioned above when instructed to do so by the department manager.

alu

CNC Machine Shop Lead - 2nd Shift

Santa Ana, CA

$23.76 - $32.68/hr

We are looking for a CNC Machine Shop Lead who will oversee all operations performed by the ... Perform any other duties not mentioned above when instructed to do so by the department manager.

Parallel Systems

Shop Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Proficiency with manual and CNC machining, welding, soldering, or similar fabrication methods * Experience managing lab or shop equipment maintenance schedules and vendor relationships * Familiarity ...

The Glass Jar

Shop Manager

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$70K - $74K/yr

The Shop Manager Position The Shop Manager role is a great fit for a hands-on, ambitious, strategic and organized professional who is excited and prepared to manage and oversee two Penny locations ...

The Glass Jar

Shop Manager

Santa Cruz, CA

The Shop Manager Position The Shop Manager role is a great fit for a hands-on, ambitious, strategic and organized professional who is excited and prepared to manage and oversee two Penny locations ...

See's Candy Shops, Inc.

Shop Manager

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$30.98/hr

As a Retail Shop Manager, you play a crucial role in the success of our See's Candies retail shop. Leading a dedicated team, your responsibilities include driving sales, ensuring top-notch customer ...

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All JobsMachine Shop Manager JobsMachine Shop Manager Jobs in California

Machine Shop Manager information

See California salary details

$36K

$75.3K

$117.9K

How much do machine shop manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine shop manager in California is $75,348.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $88,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Machine Shop Manager, and how can they be addressed?

Machine Shop Managers often encounter challenges such as maintaining production schedules, ensuring equipment reliability, and managing a diverse team of machinists and technicians. Balancing quality control with productivity demands can be particularly demanding, especially when dealing with tight deadlines or unexpected equipment failures. Effective communication, proactive maintenance planning, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement are key strategies for overcoming these challenges. Additionally, staying updated on the latest manufacturing technologies can help streamline operations and boost team efficiency.

What does a Machine Shop Manager do?

A Machine Shop Manager oversees the daily operations of a machine shop, ensuring that production schedules are met, equipment is maintained, and safety standards are followed. They are responsible for managing staff, coordinating workflow, and optimizing manufacturing processes. Additionally, they handle budgeting, inventory control, and quality assurance to maintain efficient and cost-effective operations. The role often involves liaising with other departments to meet production goals and address any technical challenges.

What is the difference between Machine Shop Manager vs Machinist?

AspectMachine Shop ManagerMachinist
Primary RoleOversees shop operations, manages staff, and ensures production efficiencyOperates machine tools to produce precision parts
CredentialsOften requires management experience, technical skills, and certificationsTypically needs technical training or certifications in machining
Work EnvironmentOffice and shop floor management, supervisory tasksHands-on machine operation in manufacturing settings
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, metalworking, and industrial facilitiesCommonly found in machine shops, manufacturing plants

The main difference is that a Machine Shop Manager oversees the entire operation, including staff and workflow, while a Machinist focuses on operating machines to produce parts. Both roles require technical knowledge, but the manager's role is more supervisory and administrative.

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

To thrive as a Machine Shop Manager, you need strong expertise in machining processes, production management, and a background in mechanical engineering or manufacturing, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with CNC machines, CAD/CAM software, ERP systems, and safety regulations is typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills are crucial for managing teams and driving continuous improvement. These competencies ensure efficient operations, high-quality output, and a safe, productive work environment.
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 Manager jobs in California? For Machine Shop Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Shop Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Shop Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Machine Shop Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Machine Shop Manager job openings:
Machine Shop Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Manager job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,348 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Machine Shop General Helper

Freeform

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 hours 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.

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