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Precision Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... precision engineering, and creative design. TAIT's 20 global offices have developed iconic productions and experiences in over 30 countries, all seven continents, and even outer space for renowned ...

Fabrication Support Associate

La Mirada, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

... precision engineering, and creative design. TAIT's 20 global offices have developed iconic productions and experiences in over 30 countries, all seven continents, and even outer space for renowned ...

Quality Engineer

Downey, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Founded over 70 years ago and based in Downey, CA, we are a leading provider of precision engineering and industrial services for the Aerospace industry. We are one of the largest firms of our kind ...

Swiss Screw Machinist

Morgan Hill, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

If you have a passion for precision engineering and a keen eye for detail, we want to hear from you! Responsibilities * Set up and operate Swiss screw machines to produce high-quality precision parts.

If you have a passion for precision engineering and a keen eye for detail, we want to hear from you! Responsibilities * Set up and operate Swiss screw machines to produce high-quality precision parts.

Swiss Screw Machinist

Morgan Hill, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

If you have a passion for precision engineering and a keen eye for detail, we want to hear from you! Responsibilities * Set up and operate Swiss screw machines to produce high-quality precision parts.

Are you passionate about innovative display technology and precision engineering? Apple's Mac Display Engineering team is seeking a talented and driven Display Engineer to lead the development of ...

Are you passionate about innovative display technology and precision engineering? Apple's Mac Display Engineering team is seeking a talented and driven Display Engineer to lead the development of ...

Work in a cross functional environment utilizing PC-DMIS programming skills as applied to DCC CMMs ... Precision Inspector/Level 1: $24.00 - $31.00/hour Precision Inspector/Level 2: $28.00 - $37.00/hour ...

Showing results 21-40

Precision Engineering information

See California salary details

$12

$31

$56

How much do precision engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for precision engineering in California is $31.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is precision engineering?

Precision engineering is a specialized field of engineering focused on designing, manufacturing, and measuring components and systems with extremely tight tolerances and high accuracy. This discipline is crucial in industries where even the smallest deviation can affect performance, such as aerospace, electronics, and medical device manufacturing. Precision engineers use advanced technologies and processes to ensure that parts and assemblies meet exacting standards, often at the micron or nanometer scale.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a precision engineer?

To thrive as a Precision Engineer, you need expertise in mechanical design, materials science, and high-accuracy manufacturing, usually supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, CNC machinery, and industry standards like ISO 9001 is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies ensure the creation of ultra-precise components, reduce errors, and support innovation in industries where tolerances are critical.

What are some common challenges faced by precision engineers when working on complex projects?

Precision engineers frequently encounter challenges related to maintaining extremely tight tolerances, especially when working with intricate components or advanced materials. Ensuring quality and consistency across all stages of the manufacturing process requires close collaboration with design, production, and quality assurance teams. Additionally, adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and integrating new machinery or software can be demanding but also presents opportunities for professional growth. Problem-solving skills and attention to detail are essential to overcome these hurdles and deliver high-quality results.

What is the difference between Precision Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectPrecision EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering or related field, often with specialization in precision manufacturing or metrologyRequires a bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering, with broader focus on design, thermodynamics, and mechanics
Work EnvironmentSpecialized manufacturing facilities, laboratories, or research environments focused on high-precision componentsVaried settings including factories, design offices, and research labs for diverse mechanical systems
Industry UsageUsed mainly in industries like aerospace, medical devices, and high-precision manufacturingWidely used across automotive, aerospace, robotics, and general manufacturing sectors

While both Precision Engineering and Mechanical Engineering require a strong engineering background, Precision Engineering focuses on creating and maintaining extremely accurate components and systems, often in specialized environments. Mechanical Engineering covers a broader range of mechanical systems and design, making it more versatile across industries.

Is precision engineering a good career?

Precision engineering is a specialized field focused on designing and manufacturing high-accuracy components, often requiring skills in CAD software, measurement tools, and quality control. It offers opportunities in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical devices, with a demand for technical expertise and certifications. The career can be stable and rewarding for those interested in detailed work and advanced manufacturing processes.

What does a precision engineer do?

A precision engineer designs, develops, and maintains highly accurate mechanical components and systems, often working with advanced manufacturing tools like CNC machines and coordinate measuring machines. They focus on achieving tight tolerances and high-quality standards in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing.

What are popular job titles related to Precision Engineering jobs in California?

For Precision Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Precision Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Precision Engineering jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Precision Engineering job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,765 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Precision Grinder - First Shift (HLG)

Burbank, CA • On-site

Crane Company
Software Development • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate precision grinding machines to produce parts according to blueprint and engineering specifications.

  • Verify results using micrometers, gauges, and specialized tools, and document inspection and verification results.

  • Perform setup, maintenance, troubleshooting, and adjustments of grinding equipment to meet quality and process requirements.


Job description

Join our team and take advantage of a One-Time $3,000 Sign-On Bonus for eligible new hires!

Crane Aerospace & Electronicshas an exciting opportunity for aPrecision Grinder for ourHone, Lap, and Grind (HLG) Teamat ourBurbank, CAlocation.

First Shift Hours are Monday-Friday, 5:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Overtime may adjust start time (e.g., 4:30 AM for extended overtime) and/or extend end time.Flexibility to work overtime and weekends as required.

About Crane:

Crane Aerospace & Electronicssupplies critical systems and components to the aerospace and defense markets. You'll find Crane Aerospace & Electronics in some of the toughest environments: from engines to landing gear; from satellites to medical implants and from missiles to unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

Every 1.2 seconds, product built at our Crane Aerospace & Electronics Burbank facility is stopping aircraft - delivering passengers and military personnel safely to their destination. Home to our Landing & Cabin Systems team, Crane A&E's brake control systems and premium cabin actuation solutions are flying on tens of thousands of aircraft throughout the world. You'll join a business with a long track record of engineering excellence, set in the wonderful town of Burbank filled with great community atmosphere, schools, weather and no shortage of entertainment.

Start the next chapter of your career with Crane Aerospace & Electronics!

Precision Grinder Level I - Overview

The Grinder Precision I operates precision grinding machines to produce parts according to established blueprint and engineering specifications.

Essential Functions:

  • Performs basic outside diameter (OD) and surface grinding operations using manual or basic CNC cylindrical OD grinders that are already set up

  • Uses micrometers and similar gages to verify results for thickness and diameter

  • Basic understanding of GD&T. Able to review work instructions and reference blueprints as needed to verify requirements

  • Uses basic collets, chucks, and v-blocks that have been specified and configured for use by a level two or level three associate or other subject matter expert

  • Able to understand measurements and offset arithmetic within 0.0001"

  • Completes all required inspection and in process verification paperwork to ensure traceability of results

  • Observes condition of tooling and escalates any out of family conditions for review by level two or level three associate, supervisor, or other subject matter expert

  • Operates equipment, pauses jobs as needed and escalates concerns to ensure safety and first-time quality

  • Documents and applies feedback from level two and three associates to achieve safety, quality, and efficiency related requirements

  • Any other task assigned by supervisor or management

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Experience: Experience in a machine shop or similar work environment preferred but not required

  • Knowledge: Computation and analysis comprehension in support of GD&T requirements and basic gaging practices required

  • Skills/Abilities: Demonstrated mechanical aptitude in an adjacent environment (work, school, or other) strongly desired

  • Education/Certification: High School Diploma or equivalent

  • Eligibility Requirement:This position may require access to Controlled Data or Information. Where the position requires such access only US Persons will be considered. As a US Department of Defense contractor, we are bound by International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

The Precision Grinder Level II - Overview

The Grinder Precision II operates precision grinding machines to produce parts according to established blueprint and engineering specifications.

Essential Functions:

  • Able to perform basic setup, daily maintenance, and troubleshooting of CNC OD grinders and manual grinding machines

  • Uses specialized gauges to verify cylindricity, surface finish, and other characteristics. (profilometers, air gauges, laser micrometers, camber gauges, etc)

  • Makes minor adjustments to ensure cylindricity (taper) and surface finish requirements are met. May replace grinding wheels and similar items.

  • Able to correlate machine settings with size, cylindricity, and surface finish results. Makes minor adjustments and consults with level three technicians to achieve required results

  • Able to select and modify tooling and part holding/fixturing techniques for moderately complex jobs

  • Highly proficient and agile in computing machine offsets, clearances, taper, and similar characteristics. Uses data to make in process adjustments to ensure process control. Meets precise engineering B/P requirements with implied cylindricity requirements within 0.000050"" (fifty millionths)

  • Completes all required inspection and in-process verification paperwork to ensure traceability of results

  • Dresses and modifies wheels, forms, drives, and other media/tooling

  • Adjusts equipment as needed and verifies results. Assists level ones to ensure consistent results

  • May support training of level one associates. Able to communicate requirements. Assists others in documenting NCR details and captures supplemental data as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Experience: Minimum two years of experience with precision ground assemblies

  • Knowledge: Understanding of GD&T, Gaging Practices, Grinding Media

  • Skills/Abilities: Manual and CNC Grinding and related gaging and computational skills

  • Education/Certification: High School Diploma or equivalent

  • Eligibility Requirement:This position may require access to Controlled Data or Information. Where the position requires such access only US Persons will be considered. As a US Department of Defense contractor, we are bound by International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

Preferred Qualifications:

  • CNC Grinding equipment experience using FANUC or equivalent controls

Precision Grinder Level III - Overview

The Grinder Precision III operates precision grinding machines to produce parts according to established blueprint and engineering specifications.

Essential Functions:

  • Able to perform setup, daily maintenance, and in-depth troubleshooting of ID/OD grinders, form grinders, and similar specialized equipment

  • Able to perform call grind and functionally verify hardware using flow benches, specialized gauges, leakage measurements, along with more advanced analysis/computation

  • Able to assist in the development of new routings and techniques. Selects feeds, speeds, and media used to ensure blueprint requirements are met

  • Able to configure/baseline machine settings and media to achieve the tightest tolerance requirements. Collaborates with engineering and internal customers to establish or troubleshoot key process inputs.

  • Collaborates with manufacturing engineering and tool designers to support complex operations and achieve most precise B/P requirements

  • Highly proficient and agile in computing machine offsets, clearances, taper, and similar characteristics. Uses data to make in process adjustments to ensure process control. Meets precise engineering B/P requirements and reports results with a measurement resolution approaching 0.000010" (tens of millionths)

  • Completes all required inspection and in-process verification paperwrok to ensure traceability of results

  • Selects, specifies and may assist in ordering new media and developing new tooling

  • Partners with other level threes, subject matter experts, supervision, and support functions to ensure safe and efficient operation of equipment

  • May support training of level one and level two associates. Helps new support team members to understand key processes and critical inputs.

  • Any other task assigned by supervisor or management

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Experience: Minimum five years of experience with precision ground assemblies

  • Knowledge: Understanding of GD&T, Gaging Practices, Grinding Media

  • Skills/Abilities: Manual and CNC Grinding and related gaging and computational skills

  • Education/Certification: High School Diploma or equivalent

  • Eligibility Requirement:This position may require access to Controlled Data or Information. Where the position requires such access only US Persons will be considered. As a US Department of Defense contractor, we are bound by International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

Preferred Qualifications:

  • CNC Grinding equipment experience using FANUC or equivalent controls

Working Conditions:

  • Working conditions are normal for a manufacturing environment

  • Manufacturing operations may require the use of safety equipment to include but not limited to: eye safety glasses, gowning, masks, hearing protectors, heel/wrist straps and any other required PPE

  • Ability to lift objects up to 40 lbs.

  • Flexible and willing to work overtime if necessary

  • Standing: 0%

  • Sitting: 100%

  • Lifting (in pounds): up to 40 pounds

  • Pushing (in pounds): up to 40 pounds

  • Mental/Visual: Use of microscope and computer.

  • Workspace (line, cube, etc.): clean bench

Top Benefits:

As a team member at Crane Aerospace and Electronics, you'll enjoy:

o Benefits:Health care, dental, vision, life and disability insurance starting the first day of the month following your start date.

o Time Off:15 days of paid time off that start accruing your first day at Crane plus 12 paid holidays per year.

o 401k Retirement Plan:401k plan with company match.

o Education Reimbursement:eligible after 6 months of employment.

You can see a list of our benefits athttps://www.craneae.com/company/careersor visit our website atwww.CraneAE.comfor more information on our company and great opportunities.

We are committed to operational excellence and world class processes. We employ Lean manufacturing techniquesto optimize manufacturing efficiency and accuracy on all product lines. Our products are known for their technical strength, proven reliability and overall value.

In our efforts to maintain a safe and drug-free workplace, Crane Aerospace & Electronics requires that candidates complete a satisfactory background check. FAA sensitive positions require employees to participate in a random drug test pool.

Salary Ranges for Precision Grinder Level I, II and III. The level of the position will be determined based on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

Several factors contribute to actual salary, including experience in a similar role or performing comparable job responsibilities, skills, training, and other qualifications. Some roles may be eligible for participation in performance-based bonus programs.

Precision Grinder Level I: $29.39 to $37.29 per hourly base rate

Precision Grinder Level II: $36.28 to $46.89 per hourly base rate

Precision Grinder Level III: $42.70 to $54.65 per hourly base rate

Second shift openings are eligible for a 10% shift differential.If your employment begins with training on First shift, you will be paid your hourly base rate. The 10% shift differential will be added to the hourly base rate once training on First shift has been successfully completed and transition to the Second shift schedule.

#LI-MD1 #CAE

This description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work being performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Crane Company. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, general identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.


Crane AI logo

About Crane AI

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Software development

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

2017