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Metal Forming Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Tooling Engineer- Metal

Cupertino, CA

$163K - $246K/yr

We are looking for an experienced metal tooling engineer to provide a technical interface between our product design groups and our suppliers, and to drive development of extraordinary metal forming ...

Vast

Manufacturing Engineer, Structures

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$86K - $122K/yr

Experience with large-scale metal forming and/or welding processes (~20 ft. assemblies) * Experience with automated or semi-automated metal forming and/or welding processes * Knowledge of ...

Apple

Tooling Engineer - Metal Stamping

Cupertino, CA

$194K - $293K/yr

... metal forming tooling and processes at our supply base. Description Assist in the product design ... process through Design for Manufacturing (DFM) input, as well as direct our suppliers in the design ...

Machina Labs

Full Stack Engineer

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

They are seeking a Full Stack Engineer to develop systems for their robotic sheet metal forming platform, bridging the gap between virtual and physical processes. Responsibilities : • Design ...

Machina Labs

Full Stack Engineer

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

They are seeking a Full Stack Engineer to develop systems for their robotic sheet metal forming platform, bridging the gap between virtual and physical manufacturing processes. Responsibilities : • ...

Vast

Senior Studio Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$109K - $150K/yr

Research and propose appropriate materials, finishes, and manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, composite layup, metal forming, additive manufacturing). * Create and evaluate physical ...

Aerotek

Sheet Metal Mechanic

El Cajon, CA

$23 - $35/hr

Fabricate sheet metal parts by bending, rolling, forming, punching, and welding according to engineering drawings and specifications. * Read and interpret blueprints and drawings to determine ...

Vast

Manufacturing Engineer, Structures

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$162K - $230K/yr

Experience with large-scale metal forming and/or welding processes (~Ø20 ft. assemblies) * Experience with automated or semi-automated metal forming and/or welding processes * Knowledge of ...

Machina Labs

Robotic Process Engineer

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

By integrating advanced metal forming, robotics, and automated production inside a flexible factory architecture, we enable customers to move from prototype to production in weeks, not years. Backed ...

DMI Companies

Manufacturing Opportunities - CA

Lodi, CA · On-site

$19.71 - $25.78/hr

Perform assembly, metal-forming, and machine operation tasks * Operate a foot pedal banding machine to secure products for shipment * Handle materials and support inventory control processes * Lift ...

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Metal Forming information

See California salary details

$13

$19

$24

How much do metal forming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for metal forming in California is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the most common challenges faced by metal forming operators and how can they be addressed?

Metal forming operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision under tight tolerances, handling repetitive tasks, and ensuring safety while working with heavy machinery. To address these, operators should regularly calibrate equipment, follow strict safety protocols, and participate in ongoing training to stay current with new technologies and best practices. Collaboration with maintenance teams and engineers is also essential for troubleshooting equipment issues and improving workflow efficiency.

What is metal forming?

Metal forming is a manufacturing process that involves shaping metal parts and objects through deformation, rather than removing material. This process uses mechanical forces, such as compression, bending, or stretching, to alter the shape of metal workpieces while maintaining their mass and volume. Common metal forming techniques include rolling, forging, extrusion, and stamping, which are widely used in industries like automotive, aerospace, and construction.

What is the difference between Metal Forming vs Metal Fabrication?

AspectMetal FormingMetal Fabrication
Primary ProcessesShaping metal through bending, rolling, forging, or extrusionCutting, assembling, welding, and finishing metal parts
Work EnvironmentFactories with heavy machinery, often involving large-scale equipmentWorkshops with cutting, welding, and assembly tools
CertificationsMachinery operation, safety, and sometimes specific forming process certificationsWelding certifications, safety training, and technical skills

Metal Forming involves shaping metal using processes like forging and extrusion, focusing on altering the metal's form without removing material. Metal Fabrication, on the other hand, includes cutting, welding, and assembling metal components to create finished products. Both roles require technical skills and safety certifications, but they differ in processes and work environments.

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

To thrive as a Metal Forming Technician, you need a solid understanding of metal properties, blueprint reading, and mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC machines, hydraulic presses, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and teamwork help individuals excel in this hands-on environment. These skills and qualities ensure precise production, safe operations, and efficient workflow in metal fabrication settings.
What are popular job titles related to Metal Forming jobs in California? For Metal Forming jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Metal Forming jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Metal Forming jobs in California are:
Metal Forming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Metal Forming job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,821 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

SHEET METAL MECHANIC (AIRCRAFT)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Camp Pendleton, CA • On-site

$23.34/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 537 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies through the DHA for Domestic Def Ind Base Facilities & Major Range/Test Facilities Base in DoD. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the "How to Apply" section of this flyer to be considered. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.Qualifications:Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the screen outs listed below.
The Screen-out Elements for this position are:
FOR WG-10:
1) Performing a full range of aircraft sheet metal mechanic duties, which include complex repairs and fabrications on various aircrafts;
2) Analyzing and troubleshooting aircraft metal structures and components to determine repairs or replacements;
3) Developing solutions for complex metal fabrication, repair and modification issues;
4) Leading/coordination complex projects and performing specialized work in aircraft systems that require advanced sheet metal skills;
5) Serving as a technical expert for sheet metal repairs and modifications, in addition to mentoring/training lower-level mechanics.
FOR WG-08:
1) Removing, installing, modifying and repairing sheet metal components;
2) Interpreting and applying technical drawings, blueprints, schematics, and manuals;
3) Performing sheet metal forming, fabrication, and welding techniques
4) Operating a variety of hand tools, power tools, and machines associated with the trade.
FOR WG-05
1) Ability to read and follow written work instructions, technical manuals, drawings, or sketches with guidance;
2) Ability to perform measurements, layout, drilling, trimming, deburring, and fitting tasks to support aircraft component repair;
3) Knowledge of shop safety practices and use of personal protective equipment (PPE);
4) Ability to learn aircraft-specific repair procedures, materials, and specifications through formal training and on-the-job instruction; and
5) Ability to work effectively as part of a team, follow directions, and perform assignments reliably and dependably in a production environment

Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/federal-wage-system-qualifications/#url=WG-3800
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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