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Metalworking Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Metalworking Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87K - $145K/yr

The Metalworking Specialist is Grainger's expert for machining, welding and grinding. This role conducts onsite assessments that reduce customers' costs while increasing efficiency through the latest ...

Metalworking Specialist

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$87K - $145K/yr

The Metalworking Specialist is Grainger's expert for machining, welding and grinding. This role conducts onsite assessments that reduce customers' costs while increasing efficiency through the latest ...

Metalworking Specialist

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$87K - $145K/yr

The Metalworking Specialist is Grainger's expert for machining, welding and grinding. This role conducts onsite assessments that reduce customers' costs while increasing efficiency through the latest ...

METAL FABRICATOR - ADVANCED METAL WORKS, INC. Advanced Metal Works, Inc. is seeking a dependable, detail-oriented Metal Fabricator to join our fast-paced and growing shop. This role is ideal for ...

Advanced Metal Works, Inc. is seeking a dependable, detail-orientedMetal Fabricatorto join our fast-paced and growing shop. This role is ideal for someone who takes pride in high-quality work, enjoys ...

Sheet Metal Welder

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

Sheet Metal Welder Location: Buena Park, CA Duration: 3-month contract with potential for long-term Qualifications: * Minimum 2 years of sheet metal welding experience. * Proficient in MIG and TIG ...

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Metal Finisher

Orange, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Position Summary This position involves processing aerospace and commercial metal components through various chemical finishing operations including chem film, anodizing, passivation, etching ...

Sheet Metal Mechanic - El Cajon, CA - Immediately Hiring * This role focuses on precision sheet metal fabrication, including bending, rolling, shearing, punching, and forming to tight tolerances. You ...

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Welder - Sheet Metal

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Welder - Sheet Metal Location: Buena Park, CA Hours: 8am-5pm with OTs Summary We are seeking a skilled Welder to fabricate and assemble high-quality sheet metal components and ductwork for commercial ...

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Showing results 1-20

Metalworking information

See California salary details

$25K

$58.6K

$89.6K

How much do metalworking jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for metalworking in California is $58,558.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,106.00 and $72,952.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in metalworking, and why are they important?

To thrive in metalworking, you need a solid understanding of metal properties, fabrication techniques, blueprint reading, and often a relevant technical diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with welding equipment, CNC machines, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong manual dexterity are standout soft skills in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure precision, safety, and efficiency in producing high-quality metal products.

What is the difference between Metalworking vs Welding?

AspectMetalworkingWelding
CredentialsOften requires technical training or certifications in metal fabricationRequires welding certifications (e.g., AWS certification)
Work EnvironmentFactories, workshops, manufacturing plantsConstruction sites, manufacturing facilities, repair shops
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including automotive, aerospace, manufacturingPrimarily in construction, manufacturing, repair, and fabrication
Job FocusCutting, shaping, assembling metal partsJoining metals through welding processes

While both metalworking and welding involve working with metals, metalworking encompasses a broad range of fabrication tasks such as cutting, shaping, and assembling metal parts. Welding is a specialized subset focused on joining metals through various welding techniques. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within the metal industry.

What are some common challenges faced in a metalworking role and how can they be addressed?

Metalworking professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision under tight deadlines, managing exposure to loud or hazardous environments, and handling complex machinery safely. Adhering to safety protocols, participating in regular training, and collaborating closely with team members can help overcome these obstacles. Additionally, staying organized and communicating effectively with supervisors and peers are essential for ensuring high-quality work and a safe, efficient workplace.

What is metalworking?

Metalworking is the process of shaping and manipulating metals to create parts, tools, structures, and decorative objects. This field includes a variety of techniques such as cutting, welding, casting, forging, and machining. Metalworkers use specialized tools and machinery to work with different types of metal, including steel, aluminum, copper, and more. Metalworking is essential in many industries like construction, manufacturing, automotive, and art. It requires both technical skill and knowledge of materials to ensure precision and safety.
What are popular job titles related to Metalworking jobs in California? For Metalworking jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Metalworking jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Metalworking jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Metalworking job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,558 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Metalworking Specialist

Grainger Businesses

San Diego, CA • On-site

$87K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Grainger rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 181 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 360 rated logistics


Job description

Work Location Type: Hybrid
Req Number 332729
About Grainger
W.W. Grainger, Inc. is a leading broad line distributor with operations primarily in North America and Japan. At Grainger, We Keep the World Working® by serving more than 4.6 million customers worldwide with maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products and value-added solutions delivered through innovative technology and deep customer expertise. Known for its commitment to service and purpose-driven culture, the Company reported 2025 revenue of $17.9 billion. For more information, visit www.grainger.com.
Compensation
The anticipated base pay compensation range for this position is $87,200.00 - $145,300.00. This role is eligible for an incentive target of up to $ $32,800.00, based on the achievement of individual and company performance objectives in accordance with the current terms of the incentive program which are subject to change.
Rewards and Benefits
With benefits starting on day one, our programs provide choice and flexibility to meet team members' individual needs, including:
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans with coverage starting on day one of employment and 6 free sessions each year with a licensed therapist to support your emotional wellbeing.
  • 18 paid time off (PTO) days annually for full-time employees (accrual prorated based on employment start date) and 6 company holidays per year.
  • 6% company contribution to a 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan each pay period, no employee contribution required.
  • Employee discounts, tuition reimbursement, student loan refinancing and free access to financial counseling, education, and tools.
  • Maternity support programs, nursing benefits, and up to 14 weeks paid leave for birth parents and up to 4 weeks paid leave for non-birth parents.

For additional information and details regarding Grainger's benefits, please click on the link below:
https://experience100.ehr.com/grainger/Home/Tools-Resources/Key-Resources/New-Hire
Grainger Benefits
The pay range provided above is not a guarantee of compensation. The range reflects the potential base pay for this role at the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual base pay compensation will depend, in part, on factors such as geographic work location and relevant experience and skills.
The anticipated compensation range described above is subject to change and the compensation ultimately paid may be higher or lower than the range described above.
Grainger reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion at any time, consistent with applicable law.
Position Details:
The Metalworking Specialist is Grainger's expert for machining, welding and grinding. This role conducts onsite assessments that reduce customers' costs while increasing efficiency through the latest technologies and applications. The Metalworking Specialist collaborates with internal sales partners to provide insight and expertise to help our customers.
You Will:
Reporting to a Regional Metalworking Manager, you will maintain expert knowledge on trends within manufacturing and maintenance industries, training opportunities, and forecasts to understand and respond to changing customer needs.
  • Educate customers on technology and innovation while leading change at customer sites.
  • Partner with Grainger sales teams and key suppliers to influence customer strategy and execution of metalworking sales growth.
  • Perform process and product assessments for customers within metalworking applications.
  • Understand how to document and present value and cost savings to customers.
  • Develop and execute a plan to accomplish sales goals for growth across metalworking products in the territory.
  • Utilize Salesforce to maintain sales data, customer activity details, and document cost savings.

You Have:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in related field
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in the metalworking industry or distribution
  • Previous field sales experience ideal.
  • Ability to identify and implement improvement opportunities
  • Project management knowledge
  • Experience managing external and internal customer relationships
  • Prior success working independently and in a team environment.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office Programs
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software or Salesforce experience ideal.
  • A valid driver's license and ability to travel in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area to see customers 3 to 4 days/week.
  • Ability to travel 2 to 3 overnights / month.

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible work environment that includes both providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities during the application and hiring process as well as throughout the course of one's employment, should you need a reasonable accommodation during the application and selection process, including, but not limited to use of our website, any part of the application, interview or hiring process, please advise us so that we can provide appropriate assistance.
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About Grainger

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Grainger is a leading broad line distributor with operations primarily in North America, Japan and the United Kingdom. We achieve our purpose, We Keep the World Working®, by serving more than 4.5 million customers with a wide range of products that keep their operations running and their people safe. Grainger also delivers services and solutions, such as technical support and inventory management, to save customers time and money. We're looking for passionate people who can move our company forward. As one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For, we have a welcoming workplace where you can build a career for yourself while fulfilling our purpose to keep the world working. We embrace new ways of thinking and recognize everyone is an individual. Find your way with Grainger today.

Industry

Office administration and facilities support services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lake Forest, IL, US

Year founded

1927