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Screw Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Perform machine maintenance, tooling changes, and adjustments to maintain consistent production ... Proven experience operating CNC lathe machines. * Experience programming CNC machines highly ...

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Machine Operator I

American Canyon, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $22.75/hr

High School Diploma or GED or equivalent experience 1-2 years' experience operating a machine, printing and/or maintenance - strongly preferred Knowledge of wine bottle screw caps printing equipment ...

Machine Operator I

American Canyon, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $22.75/hr

High School Diploma or GED or equivalent experience • 1-2 years' experience operating a machine, printing and/or maintenance - strongly preferred • Knowledge of wine bottle screw caps printing ...

CNC Operator 1 - 3rd Shift

Yorba Linda, CA · On-site

$25.60 - $31.20/hr

... with CNC Operators I-III - Interfaces with quality assurance and quality control to maintain ... Technical skills to produce a finished screw machine part after the machine is set up.

CNC Operator 1 - 3rd Shift

Yorba Linda, CA · On-site

$21.40 - $29.60/hr

... with CNC Operators I-III - Interfaces with quality assurance and quality control to maintain ... Technical skills to produce a finished screw machine part after the machine is set up.

Let's talk about the role The CNC Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring Swiss SCNC Screw machines to manufacture precision titanium jewelry components. We are looking for a detail ...

CNC Machinist

Windsor, CA

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Set up and program CNC mill, lathe, and screw machine for prototypes, fixtures, or production ... Train operators and other personnel on equipment or machinery in the machine shop/ automation area

CNC Machinist

Windsor, CA

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Set up and program CNC mill, lathe, and screw machine for prototypes, fixtures, or production ... Train operators and other personnel on equipment or machinery in the machine shop/ automation area

Showing results 41-60

Screw Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$22

$32

How much do screw machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for screw machine operator in California is $22.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $26.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Screw Machine Operator?

A screw machine operator is a type of machinist who uses an automatic lathe to build specialty and custom-ordered parts or tools. As a screw machine operator, you install stops, gears, and cams and adjust them to produce parts to client specifications. Your responsibilities include the operation and monitoring of the turning machine and other machinery as each part is made and testing each piece against the blueprints. Screw machine operators need a high school degree or a GED certificate. Skills and qualifications that help in a screw machine operator career include mechanical experience and mathematical abilities. You need to be able to read blueprints accurately and properly service and maintain your equipment.

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

To thrive as a Screw Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with machine operation, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with screw machines, CNC equipment, and blueprint reading, along with relevant safety certifications, is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, manual dexterity, and effective communication help operators excel and adapt to production demands. These skills are important for ensuring efficient machine operation, product quality, and a safe manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Screw Machine Operator vs Lathe Machinist?

AspectScrew Machine OperatorLathe Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, working with small parts on automatic or semi-automatic machinesMachine shops, working with various materials on manual or CNC lathes
Industry UsageCommon in fast-paced production of small, precise partsUsed in custom, prototype, or small-batch manufacturing

While both Screw Machine Operators and Lathe Machinists work in manufacturing environments and require similar credentials, Screw Machine Operators focus on operating automatic screw machines for high-volume, small-part production. Lathe Machinists typically work with manual or CNC lathes for diverse, often lower-volume projects. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges faced by Screw Machine Operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Screw Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as machine jams, maintaining tight tolerances, and managing tool wear. Addressing these requires strong attention to detail, regular preventive maintenance, and a proactive approach to troubleshooting. Collaborating closely with maintenance teams and quality inspectors also helps ensure smooth operations and product quality. Continuous learning about new machining techniques and keeping up with safety protocols can further enhance efficiency and job satisfaction.

What are Screw Machine Operators?

Screw Machine Operators are skilled workers who set up and operate automatic screw machines to produce precision turned parts, such as screws, bolts, and other small metal components. They read blueprints or job orders to determine machine setup and operation, select and install cutting tools, and monitor the machining process to ensure quality standards. These operators often perform routine maintenance on the machines and inspect finished parts for accuracy. Attention to detail and mechanical aptitude are important for success in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Screw Machine Operator jobs in California? For Screw Machine Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Screw Machine Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Screw Machine Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Screw Machine Operator jobs in CA? For Screw Machine Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Screw Machine Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,946 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Machining Tech IV, Grinder- 1st shift

Machining Tech IV, Grinder- 1st shift

Howmet Aerospace

Fullerton, CA

$21.91 - $37.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 63 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Machining Tech IV, Grinder- 1st Shift at our aerospace manufacturing facility in Fullerton, CA.
This position sets up and operates multiple spindle automatic screw machines. Incumbent will have control to make minor adjustments to the process or machine after tasks are assigned.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Independently makes complete set up of automatic screw machines.
  • Selects, mounts, and adjusts cutting tools; regulates time cycles; sets machine speeds, feeds and stops.
  • Selects and positions gears and cams as called out on screw machine layout.
  • Works from orders, screw machine part prints and screw machine layouts.
  • Operates machines to perform turning, drilling, reaming, facing, tapping, threading, forming and other operations within the capacity of the machine.
  • Sets up machine to produce parts to close tolerances. Checks parts intermittently to specified dimensions.
  • Recognizes improper machine functioning or cutting action of tools; troubleshoots and makes proper adjustments.
  • Re sharpens tooling using support equipment.
  • Applies complete knowledge of machinist's hand and measuring tools.
  • Applies knowledge of metals, alloys, cutting oils and coolants, as required.
  • Performs S.P.C. charting from predetermined dimensions.
  • Performs knitting task.
  • Assist factory supervision and leaders in the training of machine operators.
  • Parts to be lifted and/or transported may weigh up to 30 lbs.
  • Keeps work area clean, safe and in an orderly fashion on a daily basis.
  • Performs other tasks of equal or lesser skill as required.

Basic Qualifications

  • Minimum of 1-3 years’ experience operating machinery as a Screw machine set up operator.
  • Ability to read and understand manufacturers drawings, catalogs, and other written or verbal instructions.
  • Able to read/interpret part drawings, use quality tools (calipers, mics, comparators).
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
  • Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
  • Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Physical Demands:

  • Must be able to lift/move 30 lbs. (may not exceed per EHS policies)
  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 3 years’ experience in machinery operations in screw machines
  • High school diploma or GED or three or more years related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Benefits/Salary:

The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package available day one of hire, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), excellent 401k matching program, paid holidays and vacation. Howmet Aerospace curates a strong working environment through opportunities for career progression, community engagement activities, and flexible schedules contingent upon role and location. The salary range for this position is $21.91- $37.25.

Company Description

Howmet Aerospace, headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company’s primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems and titanium structural parts necessary for mission-critical performance and efficiency in aerospace and defense applications, as well as forged wheels for commercial transportation. Howmet Aerospace is transforming the next phase of more fuel-efficient, quieter aerospace engines and sustainable ground transportation. For more information, visit www.howmet.com/joinus

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About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888