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Metal Forming Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Robotic Process Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท 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 ...

Manufacturing Opportunities

Lodi, CA ยท On-site

$19.71 - $25.78/hr

Key ResponsibilitiesPerform assembly, metal-forming, and machine operation tasksOperate a foot pedal banding machine to secure products for shipmentHandle materials and support inventory control ...

Bellows Fabricator will assist with the successful fabrication of Bellows Forming Components and ... Polish and remove burrs from metal parts by using tools such as power disc sander, rotary files ...

Metal Fabricator/Finisher

Santa Ana, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $32/hr

Metal Fabricator/Finisher Shift: 2nd 1:30pm - 10pm + OT Pay: $20$32/hr (DOE) Job Summary: Machine ... forming machines. Responsibilities: * Able to operate Amada and Bystronic fiber laser, brake, and ...

Senior Studio Engineer

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$129K - $185K/yr

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

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

This position is responsible for producing precision aerospace components by forming, trimming, drilling, and shaping sheet metal parts using hand tools, fabrication equipment , fixtures, and ...

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

This position is responsible for producing precision aerospace components by forming, trimming, drilling, and shaping sheet metal parts using hand tools, fabrication equipment , fixtures, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Metal Forming information

See California salary details

$13

$19

$24

How much do metal forming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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.
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.

Robotic Process Engineer

Machina Labs

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

About Machina Labs
 
Engineering moves at software speed. Manufacturing doesn't. Yet.
 
Machina Labs is changing that. We build intelligent, software-defined factories that produce complex metal structures directly from digital design. 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 by Lockheed Martin, Toyota, and NVIDIA, we're building the manufacturing infrastructure that defense, aerospace, and advanced mobility programs will run on.
 
If you want to work on hard problems that matter and see them fly, drive, and defend, this is the place.    

About Machina Labs
 
 
The Role
 
As a Robotic Process Engineer at Machina Labs, you will play a key role in enabling RoboForming, our robotic incremental sheet metal forming process, through CAD manipulation, robot tool path generation, and process optimization. You'll work with our RoboCraftsman system and internal software stack to convert digital part designs into robotic tool paths, analyze scan and forming data, rapidly iterate on forming strategies based on real-world feedback, and support iterative development of forming strategies. This role is hands-on and collaborative, with a strong emphasis on digital tooling, data-driven improvement, and integration with advanced robotic systems.
What You'll Do
  • Generate and modify CAD models to ensure compatibility for RoboForming.
  • Use internal software stack to convert CAD into robot tool paths for execution on the RoboCraftsman.
  • Analyze RoboForming data and 3D scan results to assess part quality and identify areas for improvements.
  • Design and execute structured experiments (DOE) to optimize forming parameters and tool path strategies.
  • Collaborate with product managers, software engineers, and manufacturing engineers to improve workflows and tool path strategies.
  • Contribute to technical discussions with external customers as needed to support project goals and ensure alignment
  • Work autonomously and making informed decisions with limited data, then refining based on outcomes.
  • Document process, results, and analyses for continuous improvement for internal use.
What We're Looking For
  • B.S. in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
  • Minimum 2 years of experience (or fewer with advanced degrees) in a manufacturing, robotics, or prototyping environment.
  • Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Rhino).
  • Familiarity with CAM, tool path generation, or robot programming.
  • Strong data analysis skills (e.g. MATLAB, Python, advanced Excel or similar tools).
  • Comfort working in open-ended problem spaces, making rapid decisions and course corrections as needed.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow standard processes.
  • Comfortable working in a hands-on, fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to interface with interdisciplinary teams and internal/external project stakeholders.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong mentality toward safety and occupational hazard prevention.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Expertise in surface modeling using CAD.
  • Experience working with industrial robots (FANUC, KUKA, ABB, etc.).
  • Exposure to 3D scanning, inspection systems, or metrology tools.
  • Familiarity with Python scripting or automation tools.
  • Knowledge of CNC machining, additive manufacturing, or other digital manufacturing processes.
  • Experience working in a production or manufacturing facility.
  • Experience working in a highly regulated environment (e.g. aerospace, medical, nuclear).
In addition to the provided base salary range, this role also offers comprehensive benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision), PTO, and Stock Options
Machina Labs is an Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran in accordance with state and federal law. 
 
We endeavor to make the job application process accessible to any and all users. If you have a disability that impacts your ability to complete the job application process and would like to request assistance or a reasonable accommodation, please contact us at (888)444-9777. This contact information is for accommodation requests only, not to inquire about the status of applications.

*This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required for this role. Duties and responsibilities may change based on business needs. 

Machina Labs is an Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran in accordance with state and federal law. 

We endeavor to make the job application process accessible to any and all users. If you have a disability that impacts your ability to complete the job application process and would like to request assistance or a reasonable accommodation, please contact us at (888)444-9777. This contact information is for accommodation requests only, not to inquire about the status of applications.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.