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Machine Shop Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Velo3D

Machine Shop Technician

Fremont, CA

$25 - $28/hr

The Machine Shop Technician is responsible for supporting daily operations within the machine shop ... Prepare tooling plates and fixtures for surface grinding operations. * Assist machine operators ...

VELO3D

Machine Shop Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The Machine Shop Technician is responsible for supporting daily operations within the machine shop ... Prepare tooling plates and fixtures for surface grinding operations. * Assist machine operators ...

VELO3D

Machine Shop Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The Machine Shop Technician is responsible for supporting daily operations within the machine shop ... Prepare tooling plates and fixtures for surface grinding operations. * Assist machine operators ...

Velo3D

Machine Shop Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The Machine Shop Technician is responsible for supporting daily operations within the machine shop ... Prepare tooling plates and fixtures for surface grinding operations. * Assist machine operators ...

Velo3D

Machine Shop Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The Machine Shop Technician is responsible for supporting daily operations within the machine shop ... Prepare tooling plates and fixtures for surface grinding operations. * Assist machine operators ...

Ichor Systems, Inc.

Machine Operator

Fremont, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $24/hr

Overview Ichor Systems in Fremont, CA has an immediate opening for a Machine Operator - General Machine Shop helper for the weldment (stainless steel and aluminum fittings) manufacturing site. This ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Commerce, CA · On-site

$24.15/hr

Machine Operator (ENTRY LEVEL CNC OPERATOR $24.15/hour) Contact Priscilla for immediate ... Follow established shop procedures and quality standards to ensure consistent and accurate ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The advanced machine operator can independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the machine shop supervisor and is available to train basic machine operators in the setup of individual ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The advanced machine operator can independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the machine shop supervisor and is available to train basic machine operators in the setup of individual ...

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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 Sep 13, 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 Manager

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

Aluminium Precision Products
See more jobs at Aluminium Precision Productsexternal

$100K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Oversee the machine shops in the Susan St/Warner and Alton facilities to ensure production activities meet performance, productivity, efficiency, process reliability, and quality goals.

  • Work with programmers, machinists, and craftsmen to create efficient programs and processes, reduce set-ups and scrap, and increase throughput.

  • Ensure timely completion of production, monitor progress towards KPIs, and implement continuous improvements to operational efficiency and quality.

Job description

Aluminum Precision Products (APP) is an international leader in manufacturing aluminum forgings. We offer you the opportunity to be a part of a globally recognized organization that enjoys an unparalleled reputation for quality. Here you'll be challenged on a daily basis, tasked with solving problems, working with smart, energetic, and dedicated people with an opportunity to grow and learn.
Job Summary:
The Machine Shop Manager oversees the machine shops in the Susan St/Warner, as well as Alton facilities. The Machine Shop Manager plans, schedules, and manages all production activities and works to ensure that all workers meet the performance, productivity, efficiency, process reliability, and quality goals of Aluminum Precision Products.
Job Requirements:
  • Work directly with programmer(s), machinist(s), and craftsmen to ensure collaborate to create the most efficient programs/processes to reduce the amount of set-ups, scrap, cost of tooling being used, and increase throughput.
  • Ensures all production is performed in a timely manner.
  • Evaluate planned production and make changes as needed to ensure the department is working to achieve departmental and company KPIs.
  • Work on projects to assure continuous improvement.
  • Instructs and directs work activities of employees in assigned work area.
  • Promote and maintain a safe work environment.
  • Perform personnel functions such as selection, training, or evaluation.
  • Ensure adherence to APP's policies and procedures, including our code of conduct and ethics policy, product safety, employee safety and cultural beliefs.
  • Ensure adherence to all process specifications.
  • Support the Plant quality system goals / improvements & productivity goals / improvements within the scope of the job.
  • Must be willing to help our operators execute the setting up and running of parts
  • Determining best method for producing parts from blueprints including: order of operations, tooling, speeds and feeds, work-holding, and programming
  • Ensuring we are on track to meet our delivery dates and communicating any potential problems, including the need for overtime
  • Setting up, proofing out, and running parts as necessary
  • Continuously implementing improvements to operational efficiency and quality of work
  • Assisting in the designing of fixtures and tooling needs
  • Performing root-cause analysis on equipment, tooling, fixtures, processes, and material to determine the cause of non-conformances and defects. Adjust and reprograms controls, adjust feed and speeds, replace worn tooling
  • Diagnosing machine tool malfunctions to determine the need for adjustments or repairs
  • Must be able to plan and execute the machining of a part from a blueprint with minimal guidance or supervision
  • Interfaces with customers and other third-party auditors
  • Root Cause / Corrective Action
  • Justify and recommend capital equipment and tooling
  • Ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and recommend suggestions to team
  • Ensure preventative maintenance policies are adhered to and that unscheduled repairs take place in a timely and cost-efficient manner
  • Oversee the process to ensure maximum utilization of equipment.
  • Maintain manufacturing work-flow daily by reviewing jobs, requirements, troubleshooting and resolving daily manufacturing opportunities
  • Ensure that machine shop personnel consistently meet or exceed deadlines while maintaining a high standard of quality.
  • Ability to drive continuous improvement in CNC machining operations, including ability to train on advanced machining techniques
  • Ability to read and comprehend product specifications, blueprints, drawings, models, operation sheets and part lists
  • Define all training, machinery, tooling, and process needs of the department.
  • Perform any other duties not mentioned above when instructed to do so by the department manager.

Skill Requirements:
  • 8+ years of experience in a leadership role within a Machine Shop or Die Shop environment.
  • Must have experience with 3- & 4-axis CNC Mill & 2-axis Lathe set-up and programming (Haas & Okuma mills, Mazak lathe experience helpful).
  • Must be able to effectively communicate effectively orally and in writing. This includes communication with customers, management and employees.
  • Must have experience in all aspects of product machining, including industrialized equipment, and technologies.
  • Aerospace experience preferred.
  • LEAN conceptual training preferred.
  • Experience with both CNC and conventional machine tools with experience/knowledge programming and operating CNC lathes, mills, muti-axis machining centers.
  • Advanced Blueprint Reading.

Why work for APP?
  • Medical, Dental, Vision - Generous company contribution, low cost to employee
  • Life insurance - 100% company paid - covers employee, spouse and dependent children
  • Generous Vacation Time
  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • Holiday Shut Down (Christmas thru New Year's)
  • Sick Time
  • Annual Bonus (based on company meeting Key Results)
  • 401k (Company matches up to 4%)
  • ESOP Employee Profit Sharing Retirement Plan (100% Company Paid)
  • Tuition reimbursement

Compensation: $100,000 - $125,000 annually. This is the lowest to highest hourly rate we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range, and the range may be modified in the future. An employee's pay within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.
APP is an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) Company and we are committed to the long term growth of our organization and employees. We offer an excellent benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and 401k plan.
APP, Inc. engineers and manufactures certain products that are considered ITAR-controlled items under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Consistent with ITAR, any position at APP, Inc. that involves work with the engineering or manufacturing functions of the Company may only be filled by a candidate who is (i) a citizen of the United States, or (ii) a person who has been accorded the privilege of residing permanently in the United States as an immigrant in accordance with the immigration laws. Are you a U.S. Citizen or U.S. Person? (U.S. Person = a natural person who is a lawful permanent resident as defined in 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or who is a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).)
Accessibility:If you need help accessing this page please contact us by Email: apphr@aluminumprecision.com
Aluminum Precision Products, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, including disability and vets.
If you want to view the EEO is the Law poster in English, Spanish, Arabic, and Chinese please click here.

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