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Machining Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Pratt Industries

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Stockton, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

SUMMARY Responsible for all activities associated with safely operating production machines including setup, operation, cleanup, and recommending improvements to operations to meet customer demand.

Pratt Industries

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Stockton, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

SUMMARY Responsible for all activities associated with safely operating production machines including setup, operation, cleanup, and recommending improvements to operations to meet customer demand.

Valley Milk LLC

Machine Operator

Turlock, CA

$22 - $26/hr

Working around manufacturing equipment and machinery. Working in areas that may be hot, cold, wet, noisy, or dusty. Wearing required PPE. Lifting and/or moving materials consistent with established ...

IHOP

Dish Machine Operator

Manteca, CA · On-site

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

IHOP Dish Machine Operators (DMO) will be responsible for cleaning and maintaining dishware/utensils for the continued smooth operation of the restaurant. IHOP DMOs will also perform assigned ...

IHOP

Dish Machine Operator

Turlock, CA · On-site

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

IHOP Dish Machine Operators (DMO) will be responsible for cleaning and maintaining dishware/utensils for the continued smooth operation of the restaurant. IHOP DMOs will also perform assigned ...

Pacific Medical Inc.

Sewing Machine Operator

Tracy, CA · On-site

$35K - $42K/yr

We are currently seeking a regular full-time Sewing Machine Operator. This individual is responsible for sewing and assembling products using approved samples, Bills of Materials (BOMs), detailed ...

Pacific Medical Inc.

Sewing Machine Operator

Tracy, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a regular full-time Sewing Machine Operator. This individual is responsible for sewing and assembling products using approved samples, Bills of Materials (BOMs), detailed ...

FM Industries

Machinist, Lathe 2 - Day Shift

Livermore, CA · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

As a CNC Lathe Machinist 2, you will set-up and run repeat or proven part(s) with simple to high complexity with minimal direction from area Lead or Supervisor * Responsible for utilizing shop paper ...

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All JobsMachining JobsMachining Jobs in Modesto, CA

Machining information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$69.6K

$95.8K

$135.6K

How much do machining jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for machining in Modesto, CA is $95,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,900.00 and $102,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is machining?

Machining is a manufacturing process in which material is removed from a workpiece to shape or finish it into the desired form, typically using tools such as lathes, mills, or drills. It is commonly used in metalworking but can also be applied to plastics, wood, and other materials. Machining processes include cutting, drilling, grinding, and turning, and are essential for creating precise parts for various industries like automotive, aerospace, and electronics. Skilled machinists operate these machines, read blueprints, and use measuring instruments to ensure accuracy. Advancements in technology, such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining, have greatly improved precision and efficiency in the field.

What is a machining job?

Machining jobs refer to positions in the manufacturing industry that operate computers and machines to create metal parts. Job titles include machinist, mill hand, toolmaker, or fitter. Machinists use powerful tools, such as lathes, grinders, lasers, millers, drill presses, and planers to cut large pieces of metal, wood, glass, or plastics, and turn them into specialized tools. Examples of machinist products include bolts, pistons, and parts for automobiles and airplanes. Precision is a machinist’s top priority; they must carefully manage every step of their process, from developing a plan to cooling the metal.

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

To thrive as a Machinist, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with blueprint reading, typically supported by vocational training or an apprenticeship. Proficiency with CNC machines, manual lathes, milling machines, and familiarity with CAD/CAM software are essential, along with relevant certifications such as NIMS. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure precision manufacturing, safe operations, and efficient collaboration in producing high-quality components.

What are some of the common challenges faced by machinists on the job, and how can they be managed?

Machinists often encounter challenges such as tight production deadlines, maintaining high precision in parts manufacturing, and keeping up with evolving CNC technology. Managing these challenges typically involves strong attention to detail, effective time management, and continuous learning to stay current with new machinery and software. Collaborating closely with engineers and quality control teams also helps resolve production issues quickly and ensures that finished products meet specifications.

What is the difference between Machining vs CNC Operator?

AspectMachiningCNC Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingHigh school diploma; CNC programming knowledge often preferred
Work EnvironmentMachine shops, manufacturing plantsManufacturing facilities, machine shops
Job RoleOperating various manual or semi-automatic machines to shape partsSetting up, operating, and monitoring CNC machines
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, aerospace, automotivePrimarily in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive sectors

Machining involves operating manual or semi-automatic machines to create parts, requiring technical skills and hands-on work. CNC Operators focus on programming and managing CNC machines, often requiring knowledge of G-code and setup procedures. Both roles are essential in manufacturing but differ in technical complexity and automation level.

Is machining a good career?

Machining is a skilled trade involving operating machine tools to produce precision parts, often requiring technical training or certifications. It offers stable employment opportunities in manufacturing, with potential for advancement and good wages, especially for those skilled in CNC programming and setup. The job typically involves working in manufacturing environments with attention to safety and quality standards.
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What job categories do people searching Machining jobs in Modesto, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Machining jobs in Modesto, CA are:

What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Machining jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Machining job openings:

Machining jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machining job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,807 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Stockton, CA • On-site

Pratt Industries

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 110 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 121 rated packaging manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks

Learn more about Pratt Industriesexternal

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY
Responsible for all activities associated with safely operating production machines including setup, operation, cleanup, and recommending improvements to operations to meet customer demand.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Work safely at all times, be aware of surroundings and understand and comply with Pratt Industries Safety rules, operating procedures, and help hold co-workers responsible for safety related items. Participate in Plant Safety Committee.
  • Follow at all times GMPs (Good Manufacturing Processes)
  • Learn and comply with Pratt Industries quality procedures and policies. Stop bad quality from leaving the facility to the Customer. Catch it on the front end of manufacturing the product. Strong attention to detail for poor quality; prevent bad quality being sent to customer.
  • Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed. Improve set up times daily, improve downtime daily. Identify and address mechanical concerns and report to Production Supervisor or Production Manager or Plant Mechanical Tech/Specialist
  • Housekeeping and cleaning of work areas - keep clean and free of tripping hazards during shift and end of shift cleaning of the area. In addition, good housekeeping of areas employee utilizes; break rooms, bathrooms, refrigerators etc.
  • Learn and understand capability and capacity of machine and drive efficiencies limiting waste and downtime. Do not sacrifice quality for machine speeds - must have both excellent quality and high efficiencies with minimal downtime.
  • Train and assist Assistant Machine Operators, Machine Helpers and Production Utility with job duties on the machine, downtime, setup times and quality.
  • Cross-train on other machines and learns other positions in the plant.
  • Complete necessary reports in an accurate and timely manner, including but not limited to: Production Data, Machine Operational Status, Safety Data, Quality Data.
  • Turn in maintenance work order requests to supervision for needed repairs on the machine or machines. Be proactive in the maintenance and housekeeping of equipment.
  • Switch duties with co-workers as necessary. Learning environment to learn as many job duties to assist with plant growth and personal and professional growth opportunities.
  • Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping.
  • Adheres to production schedule. Makes recommendations for optimizing the schedule to meet cost, quality and service goals. Reports any unusual scheduling issues to Supervisor.
  • Must be able to work overtime as necessary, sometimes on short notice. We serve our customers 24x7 - 365 days a year and sometimes work on holidays not avoidable.
  • Additional duties may be assigned by management.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
High school diploma or GED.
Candidates are PREFERRED who offer the following:
Prior work experience in the packaging industry; paper, plastics, converting
6 months' experience in some type of manufacturing operation.
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Able to read and follow instructions; quality, safety, job packets
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Able to read a tape measure with speed and accuracy. Able to calculate figures and amounts such as percentages, measurement, volume and rate. Able to apply concepts of high school math.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or graphic form. Ability to deal with problems involving one or more concrete variables in standardized situations.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
May be required to maintain a current Lift Truck Operator License.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee may occasionally be required to sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 9,000 highly skilled green collar employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability. Pratt Industries is one of the largest corrugated packaging companies in America, with sophisticated manufacturing facilities in more than twenty states. The company operates several of the most modern, cost effective paper mills in the country, as well as a series of sheet and box plants strategically placed throughout the United States offering a wide range of creative packaging solutions. Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by harvesting the urban forest.
Pratt Industries offers competitive compensation plans with full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, All State, Pre-Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, paid holidays, and childbearing and parental leave.

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