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Machine Shop Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Eaton

Machine Shop Operator - 3rd Shift

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$23.40/hr

The Machine Shop Operator - 3rd Shift role offers a 32.5 hour work week with a $3.00/hour shift premium. Hours are 10:00 PM - 5:00AM and will start Monday night and go until Saturday morning. Shift ...

ARUNDEL MACHINE

Machine Shop Technician

Sonora, CA

$18/hr

... to join our machine shop team. No experience? No problem. If you've got a good head on your ... Assisting with material handling, including operating a forklift (training provided if needed)

Smiths Machine

Machine Shop Technician

Sonora, CA · On-site

$18/hr

... to join our machine shop team. No experience? No problem. If you've got a good head on your ... Assisting with material handling, including operating a forklift (training provided if needed)

ARUNDEL MACHINE

Machine Shop Technician

Sonora, CA · On-site

$18/hr

... to join our machine shop team. No experience? No problem. If you've got a good head on your ... Assisting with material handling, including operating a forklift (training provided if needed)

General Matter

Machine Shop Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Our lean, world-class team of engineers and operators is applying a first-principles approach to ... Manage daily machine shop operations across machining, fabrication, and CNC production, translating ...

General Matter

Machine Shop Manager

Los Angeles, CA

$140/hr

Our lean, world-class team of engineers and operators is applying a first-principles approach to ... Manage daily machine shop operations across machining, fabrication, and CNC production, translating ...

All American Racers

Machine Shop Manager

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Supervise, develop, and mentor machinists and CNC operators; build a culture of quality, accountability, safety, and continuous improvement. * Keep the shop clean, organized, and safe, and partner ...

alu

Machine Shop Manager

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

The Machine Shop Manager oversees the machine shops in the Susan St/Warner, as well as Alton ... Must be willing to help our operators execute the setting up and running of parts * Determining ...

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All JobsMachine Shop Operator JobsMachine Shop Operator Jobs in California

Machine Shop Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine shop operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine shop operator in California is $17.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine shop operator?

Machine Shop Operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain machinery used to produce metal parts and tools in manufacturing settings. They read blueprints or technical drawings, select appropriate machine tools, and ensure products meet precise specifications. Their responsibilities may include monitoring machine operations, making adjustments, performing routine maintenance, and inspecting finished products for quality. Machine Shop Operators play a vital role in ensuring the efficiency and accuracy of manufacturing processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine shop operator?

To thrive as a Machine Shop Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience with machining techniques, and typically a high school diploma or vocational training in machining. Familiarity with CNC machines, manual lathes, milling machines, and knowledge of safety protocols and measurement tools like calipers and micrometers are essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help operators excel in precision work and teamwork. These skills are crucial to ensure high-quality production, minimize errors, and maintain a safe, efficient work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by machine shop operators, and how can they be addressed?

Machine Shop Operators often face challenges such as maintaining precision under tight deadlines, handling a variety of complex machinery, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Staying organized and proactive with routine equipment maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and ensures productivity. Additionally, strong communication with team members and supervisors is vital to quickly resolve issues and maintain workflow. Continuous learning and staying updated with new technologies in machining can also help operators overcome evolving industry demands.

What is the difference between Machine Shop Operator vs Machinist?

AspectMachine Shop OperatorMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certificationsHigh school diploma; technical training or certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing shops, factories, machine shopsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, precision environments
Job FocusOperate and monitor machines, follow instructionsSet up, program, and operate complex machinery for precision parts

Machine Shop Operators typically handle machine operation and basic maintenance, while Machinists often perform more complex setup, programming, and precision work. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, but Machinists usually require more technical skills and training.

What qualifications do you need to work as a machine shop operator?

Machine shop operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require technical training or an apprenticeship in machining or manufacturing. Familiarity with tools, precision measurement, and safety procedures is essential, and some positions may require certification in specific machining techniques or equipment operation.
Machine Shop Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Machine Shop Operator - 2nd Shift

Partners Personnel

City Of Industry, CA • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

MACHINE SHOP HELPER

Location: City of Industry, CA
Pay Rate: $24.00/hr
Schedule: 2nd Shift | Monday–Saturday

Job Summary

We are seeking a Machine Shop Helper to support daily operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This position is ideal for someone with basic machine shop experience who is interested in developing their skills while assisting machinists with mills, lathes, and other machine shop equipment.

The Machine Shop Helper will assist with machine setup, material handling, basic troubleshooting, measurements, and general shop duties while maintaining a safe and organized work environment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Assist machinists with the operation and setup of mills, lathes, and other machining equipment.
  • Help troubleshoot basic machine issues and identify potential equipment problems.
  • Assist with loading and unloading materials and parts from machines.
  • Provide support with machine setups, tooling, fixtures, and workholding.
  • Use basic measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
  • Read and understand basic blueprints, work instructions, and shop drawings.
  • Assist with deburring, cleaning, grinding, and finishing machined parts.
  • Perform basic inspection of parts to ensure they meet specifications.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
  • Move materials, tooling, and finished parts throughout the machine shop.
  • Assist machinists with tooling changes and other production-related tasks.
  • Follow all safety procedures and company policies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Previous machine shop, manufacturing, or mechanical experience preferred.
  • Basic knowledge of mills, lathes, and machining processes preferred.
  • Ability to troubleshoot or assist in identifying basic machine problems.
  • Familiarity with hand tools and measuring instruments.
  • Ability to read basic blueprints or technical drawings.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Must be comfortable working in a manufacturing/machine shop environment.
  • Ability to lift and move materials as required.

Preferred Experience

  • CNC machine shop experience.
  • Manual mill or lathe experience.
  • Machine setup or tooling experience.
  • Experience using calipers, micrometers, and other precision measuring tools.
  • Mechanical assembly or tool-and-die experience.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
  • Ability to frequently bend, reach, push, pull, and lift.
  • Ability to safely handle materials and parts weighing up to 50+ lbs.
  • Must be comfortable working around operating machinery, tools, and industrial equipment.

This is a great opportunity for someone with mechanical aptitude who wants to grow their skills and build a career in machining and manufacturing.

Partners Personnel logo

About Partners Personnel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Partners Personnel is a full-service staffing company with offices nationwide dedicated to finding the best talent for our clients and building great careers for our employees. At Partners Personnel, we are fanatics when it comes to client satisfaction! Our business model enables companies to maximize profitability by providing flexible staffing regardless of size. We carefully assess every candidate’s personality, skill set, and work experience to ensure we find the right fit for each assignment, allowing our clients to focus on running their business with the best talent available for the job. Partners Personnel has experienced rapid growth since its founding in 2017 to become the 12th largest industrial staffing firm in the U.S. while expanding to over 100 branches nationwide. The strength of its culture as an SIA Best Staffing Firm to Work For and the focused purpose of “helping people and organizations improve” has fueled this rapid growth. In addition to its core strength in the light industrial space, Partners has leveraged its capabilities, successful business model, and industry know-how to add Specialty Divisions to serve its growing customer and employee base further while continuing to provide exceptional service and a more personalized approach to staffing.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Barbara, CA, US

Year founded

2017

Social media

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