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Machine Shop Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Relativity Space

Machine Shop Technician II

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$25.80 - $38.70/hr

Develop and enforce standardized workflows for machine shop operations, including shift hand-offs ... operating or programming CNC lathes, mills and/or EDM machines * Experience in machine maintenance ...

Apply Early

Relativity Space

Machine Shop Technician II

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$25.80 - $38.70/hr

Develop and enforce standardized workflows for machine shop operations, including shift hand-offs ... operating or programming CNC lathes, mills and/or EDM machines * Experience in machine maintenance ...

INA Solution Inc

Manual Machine Operator

Montebello, CA · On-site

$22.25 - $30/hr

Manual Machine Operator Location: Montebello, CA Shift: 1st Shift (Training on 1st Shift, then ... machine shop environment. Key Responsibilities * Set up and operate manual surface grinders ...

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Ernie Ball Inc

Machine Operator MM

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

We're looking for a skilled, detail-driven Machine Operator to join our Machine Shop -- the beating heart of where world-class instruments come to life. If you take pride in precision, love working ...

Rayjoye Machine and Fabrication, Inc.

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Conventional Journeyman Machinist

Victorville, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Company Description Fast growing Machine Shop, Fabrication shop & Industrial construction Company looking to grow our Team. We are a family owned & operated business located in Victorville, Ca

fontana

Lathe Operator II- MNF - Machine Shop

Burbank, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

Position Summary Set up and be able to operate all machines within the machine shop Position ... Language Skills -Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and ...

Rayjoye Machine and Fabrication, Inc.

Be Seen First

Conventional Journeyman Machinist

Victorville, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Company Description Fast growing Machine Shop, Fabrication shop & Industrial construction Company looking to grow our Team. We are a family owned & operated business located in Victorville, Ca

Apply Early

Fontana

Lathe Operator II- MNF - Machine Shop

Burbank, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

... the machine shop Position Responsibilities Include But Are Not Limited To: * Set up and operate ... Language Skills -Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and ...

ARCH Global Precision

Machine Operator

Escondido, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Machine Operator l Schedule : Shift 1: Mon-Thurs, 4:30am-3pm Pay Range: $18-21/hour depending on ... Record production data, inspection results, and shift activity in ERP or shop floor systems

Howmet Aerospace

Tap Machine Operator

Brea, CA

$20 - $25/hr

Essential Duties And Responsibilities • Operates tapping machine equipment to produce parts ... shop experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

PTI Technologies

Machine Operator III

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$19.53 - $27.58/hr

A key part of your role will involve setting up dies and materials, operating shop equipment, and ... Would you be a great Machine Operator III? To excel as a Machine Operator III at PTI Technologies ...

Apply Early

PTI Technologies

Machine Operator III

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

A key part of your role will involve setting up dies and materials, operating shop equipment, and ... Would you be a great Machine Operator III? To excel as a Machine Operator III at PTI Technologies ...

PTI Technologies

Machine Operator III

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

A key part of your role will involve setting up dies and materials, operating shop equipment, and ... Would you be a great Machine Operator III? To excel as a Machine Operator III at PTI Technologies ...

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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 Jul 4, 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 qualifications do you need to work in a machine shop?

To work as a machine shop operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an apprenticeship in machining or manufacturing. Familiarity with tools, safety procedures, and computer numerical control (CNC) machines is often required, and some positions may prefer certifications such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) or similar credentials.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine operators or those working in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing with advanced equipment. These roles typically require technical skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer higher wages compared to general machine operator positions.

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

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.

Do machinists make a lot of money?

Machinists, including machine shop operators, typically earn a median annual wage that is above the national average for all occupations, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and skill level. Skilled machinists who operate advanced tools and obtain certifications often have higher earning potential. The job may also include overtime and shift differentials that can increase overall income.

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 is a machine operator's job salary?

The average salary for a machine shop operator typically ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in operating specific machinery may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What are Machine Shop Operators?

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.
Machine Shop Operator jobs near you
Supervisor, Machine Shop, Quick Turn

Supervisor, Machine Shop, Quick Turn

Relativity Space

Long Beach, CA

$112K - $168K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

At Relativity Space, we're building rockets to serve today's needs and tomorrow's breakthroughs. Our Terran R vehicle will deliver customer payloads to orbit, meeting the growing demand for launch capacity. But that's just the start. Achieving commercial success with Terran R will unlock new opportunities to advance science, exploration, and innovation, pioneering progress that reaches beyond the known.

Joining Relativity means becoming part of something where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level. Here, you're not just executing tasks; you're solving problems that haven't been solved before, helping develop a rocket, a factory, and a business from the ground up. Whether you're in propulsion, manufacturing, software, avionics, or a corporate function, you'll collaborate across teams, shape decisions, and see your work come to life in record time. Relativity is a place where creativity and technical rigor go hand in hand, and your voice will help define the stories we're writing together. Now is a unique moment in time where it's early enough to leave your mark on the product, the process, and the culture, but far enough along that Terran R is tangible and picking up momentum. The most meaningful work of your career is waiting. Join us.

About the Team:

The Machine Shop team delivers high-precision, high-quality machined components that are critical to Terran R's success. Here, you'll combine technical skill with creativity, collaborating closely with engineering and design teams to drive better part designs and manufacturing solutions. You'll work with best-in-class, premium machinery and get to bring our expanded, state-of-the-art machine shop to life to support the scale and pace of the Terran R program. This role offers the rare chance to see your craftsmanship directly integrated into flight hardware, making an immediate impact. With clear training pathways, you'll have opportunities to advance from operating machines to programming them, growing your career alongside the program.

About the Role:

  • Lead day-to-day operation for a quick turn / prototype / emergent operations supporting development programs for launch vehicles and propulsion systems
  • Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of machinists driving a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement while meeting aggressive build schedules
  • Partner cross-functionally with engineering, supply chain, and quality teams to deliver hardware critical to the business, mitigating supplier risk, keeping key development initiative on track, and supporting production hardware with fixturing
  • Support strategy development to architect a department that wins on lead time, key contributor to implement that strategy

About You:

  • 7+ years of hands-on machining experience (CNC mill/turn, multi-axis, tight-tolerance aerospace work) with 2+ years in a supervisory or lead role,
  • Proven ability to lead and scale teams in fast-paced prototype settings—comfortable balancing urgency, quality, and safety while building structure within a newly developed department.
  • Excellent communicator and cross-functional partner who thrives in collaborative environments, capable of interfacing with design, quality, and supply chain teams
  • Hands-on leader with a strong ownership mindset – willingness to step in to solve problems in real time

Nice to haves but not required:

  • Experience supporting rapid hardware development in a high-performance environment
  • Knowledge of ERP systems and production planning tools.
  • Experience developing and implementing key performance indexes

At Relativity Space, we are committed to transparency and fairness in our compensation practices. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors.
Compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. Relativity Space offers competitive salary and equity, a generous PTO and sick leave policy, parental leave, an annual learning and development stipend, and more! To see some of the benefits & perks we offer, please visit here.

Hiring Range:
$112,000—$168,000 USD

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

If you need a reasonable accommodation, please contact us at accommodations@relativityspace.com.