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Machine Shop Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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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Machine Operator

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

The Machine Operator B will set up and operate most vertical and horizontal milling machines ... Other duties based on the needs of the Machine Shop The preceding functions have been provided as ...

Machine Operator

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

The Machine Operator will set up and operate vertical and horizontal milling machines, automatic ... Solve shop math related problems * Make proper selection of cutting tools, speeds and feeds

Machine Operator

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

The Machine Operator will set up and operate vertical and horizontal milling machines, automatic ... Solve shop math related problems * Make proper selection of cutting tools, speeds and feeds

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 ...

Machine Operator

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

The Machine Operator will set up and operate vertical and horizontal milling machines, automatic ... Solve shop math related problems * Make proper selection of cutting tools, speeds and feeds

Machine Operator

Fullerton, CA

$17.75 - $21/hr

The Machine Operator will set up and operate vertical and horizontal milling machines, automatic ... Solve shop math related problems * Make proper selection of cutting tools, speeds and feeds

Machine Operator

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

The Machine Operator will set up and operate vertical and horizontal milling machines, automatic ... Other duties based on the needs of the Machine Shop The preceding functions have been provided as ...

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... machine shop in Brea, CA. Our specialty is landing gear which encompasses machining hard metals with tight tolerances. We offer a 9/80 schedule with a 5:30am start time. We offer 100% paid employee ...

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... machine shop in Brea, CA. Our specialty is landing gear which encompasses machining hard metals with tight tolerances. We offer a 9/80 schedule with a 5:30am start time. We offer 100% paid employee ...

Showing results 41-60

Machine Shop Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine shop operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 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.
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.

Manufacturing Engineer, Machine Shop (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

SpaceX
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$115K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

MANUFACTURING ENGINEER, MACHINE SHOP (STARSHIP)

As an engineer at SpaceX, you will have the opportunity to utilize your knowledge, experience, and creativity to develop novel solutions at the cutting edge of space technology. You will work on hardware that will deliver satellites into earth orbit, ferry humans to and from the international space station, and ultimately extend humanity's reach beyond the earth and moon. You will own the relationship between our engineering, production, and quality teams, with a focus on inspection reliability and efficiency, driving design for manufacturability improvements on the hardware you own in the machine shop. You will aggressively pursue improved inspection processes the require lower touch time and optimized requirements to meet flight production rates without sacrificing reliability. You will provide input into the design and development of new and existing hardware-particularly optimizing for manufacturability and inspectability-and take a lead role in inspection processes within production on our current and next-generation vehicles, including Starship machining operations.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Determine inspection method (e.g. manual inspection, CMMs, Keyance, etc.) that results in maximum utilization, maximize machine uptime and reduce part stagnation
  • Increase inspection throughput by evaluating and incorporating automation opportunities, focused on efficiency gains, such as standardizing rework guides, eliminating redundant checks, and optimizing frequency of inspections
  • Maintain tight feedback loops with the design and manufacturing teams to reduce cycle times from defect detection to manufacturing and inspection updates
  • Update engineering drawings to allow for better manufacturing and inspection (e.g., refining GD&T datum structures and callouts for stable, repeatable measurements)
  • Drive design for manufacturing initiatives related to inspection processes, including reducing CMM inspection times through optimized programming, fixturing, and workflow streamlining
  • Review out-of-tolerance conditions rigorously and sign off on dispositions to enable efficient production flow
  • Collaborate with other SpaceX machine shops and quality facilities to share inspection capabilities, develop resources, and address capacity, scheduling, and process alignment issues as necessary
  • Contain non-conforming products created by the shop and work to implement short-term and long-term corrective actions after completing thorough root cause investigations on the issue

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline or physics
  • 1+ years of machine shop, manufacturing, quality, and/or inspection experience (student project team or internship experience qualifies)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Highly experienced with a variety of precision conventional and advance metrology systems (CMMs, 3D imaging)
  • Well versed in GD&T and inspection procedures
  • Well versed in standard machine shop manufacturing processes and set ups
  • Experience setting up and operating state-of-the art machining equipment
  • Experience operating CNCs, conventional lathe and mill machines, and other machine shop equipment used to manufacture high-precision parts
  • Demonstrated proficiency in CNC programming (lathes and mills) and CMM programming

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to work extended hours, weekends, and offsite as needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:      

Pay range:        

Manufacturing Engineer/Level I: $100,000.00 - $117,500.00/per year  
Manufacturing Engineer/Level II: $115,000.00 - $140,000.00/per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.


What SpaceX employees say

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US