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Prototype Machinist 837581

Santa Ana, CA 92704

Posted: 05/29/2026 Job Category: Manufacturing and Production Job Number: 837581 Pay Rate: $43000 per year

Job Description


Innovative Prototype Machinist Opportunity — Urgently hiring in Santa Ana!

Job Title: Prototype Machinist
Pay: $42/hr 
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Start Date: ASAP

Looking for a lifestyle/career benefit? Join a forward-thinking engineering team in Santa Ana, CA and make a difference every day.

As a Prototype Machinist, you'll play a critical role in transforming innovative designs into tangible prototypes. You will collaborate closely with engineers to produce high-precision parts, ensuring each project meets rigorous standards. Your expertise will directly impact the development of groundbreaking products, making your work both challenging and rewarding.

What You'll Do
As a Prototype Machinist, you will be responsible for:
  • Program, set up, edit, troubleshoot, and operate both CNC and manual machinery (including vertical machining centers, mills, and turning centers) to manufacture precision prototype parts.
  • Analyze engineering blueprints, technical drawings, rough sketches, and verbal concepts to determine the optimal manufacturing procedures.
  • Collaborate with the engineering team to design and fabricate custom jigs, fixtures, and tooling using specialized equipment to support unique production needs.
  • Evaluate experimental procedures and part designs, proactively suggesting modifications to optimize manufacturability and efficiency.
  • Perform rigorous inspections using precision measuring devices to ensure all prototype components meet strict dimensional specifications.
  • Assist with rework operations to minimize downtime and maintain a smooth workflow.
  • Conduct advanced preventive and corrective maintenance on shop machinery, maintaining a safe and organized workspace.
What You'll Bring
The ideal candidate for this role will have:
  • Proven experience working with manual Lathe Machines and CNC programming (minimum of 2 years).
  • Familiarity with SolidWorks for design and engineering support.
  • Hands-on expertise with CNC - Lathe operations, including programming and setup.
  • Knowledge of machining practices, material properties, and tooling selection.
  • Previous experience in an ISO-certified environment is a plus.
  • Experience working with 4-axis lathes and 5-axis mills is highly desirable.
  • Associate’s Degree, Technical Certification in Machine Technology, or equivalent experience in machining.
Why Join Us in Santa Ana?
  • Engage in exciting R&D projects, working on new prototypes every week instead of routine production.
  • Collaborate with talented engineers who value your technical insights and machining expertise.
  • Work with a diverse range of classic manual machinery and advanced CNC multi-axis equipment.
  • Enjoy competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a modern, well-equipped shop environment.

Location & Schedule: This position is on-site in Santa Ana, CA, offering standard weekday hours.

Ready to Take the Next Step? If you're ready to start a rewarding career as a Prototype Machinist in Santa Ana, apply today or contact our recruiting team to learn more. Don't wait, we're hiring now!

Let our local Helpmates recruiters help you reach your career goals.
At Helpmates, we do the hard work and don't stop until you're hired! We specialize in connecting job seekers with opportunities that fit their skills and career goals. Whether you're looking to grow in your current field or explore a new path, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

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We’ve seen an increase in scam attempts targeting job seekers. Please know that our team will never request sensitive personal information—such as your Social Security number or banking details—outside of our secure onboarding system. This system is the only method we use to collect the information necessary for employment.

All official communication will come from verified company email addresses or phone numbers. If something seems suspicious, trust your instincts and don’t engage. Learn how to spot job scams and protect yourself here.

Equal Opportunity Employer:
Helpmates provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Helpmates will provide reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities in all parts of the hiring and employment process.

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About Santa Ana, CA

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore our job opportunities in the vibrant city of Santa Ana, California, where endless possibilities await. Nestled in Orange County, Santa Ana offers a delightful blend of diverse cultures, stunning art galleries like the Bowers Museum, theaters such as the Yost Theater, and mouthwatering cuisine at the 4th Street Market. Home to the professional sports teams like the Orange County Soccer Club, this city also boasts serene parks like Santiago Park for outdoor enthusiasts. Come be a part of a community brimming with charm and growth opportunities – your dream job could be just a click away.