Machinist | Build Precision Parts That Help Aerospace Take Flight
PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leader in the aviation and aerospace industry, to find a skilled Machinist ready to bring precision, craftsmanship, and technical expertise to an exciting opportunity in San Diego, California.
If you have hands-on Flow waterjet experience, a strong understanding of machining principles, and an eye for exacting detail, this could be your opportunity to put your skills to work in a cutting-edge aerospace environment.
Position Details
Job Title: Machinist
Location: San Diego, CA 92121
Job Type: Full-Time, 3-Month Contract
Contract-to-Hire Opportunity: This position is intended to convert to direct hire; however, conversion is not guaranteed.
Pay Rate: $34.97 per hour
Schedule: Monday through Friday
Shift: 2nd Shift, 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Work Location: On-site
Make an Impact Through Precision
As a Machinist 1, you'll support the machining department at the San Diego structures site, including performing waterjet machining on composite materials. Your work will require precision, technical expertise, sound judgment, and a commitment to quality.
You'll join a collaborative team where your ability to interpret technical drawings, set up and operate machinery, and produce components to exact tolerances will contribute to highly specialized aerospace manufacturing operations.
What You'll Do
In this role, you will:
Set up and operate Flow waterjet equipment and a variety of machine tools.
Operate equipment such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, planers, precision grinders, and potentially numerically controlled machinery.
Machine composite and metal components to exact specifications, tolerances, and dimensions.
Interpret blueprints, sketches, mechanical drawings, and engineering specifications.
Use machinist hand tools and precision measuring instruments to verify accuracy.
Perform standard shop calculations related to dimensions, tooling, feeds, and speeds.
Measure, mark, and scribe dimensions and reference points to prepare stock for machining.
Fit and assemble precision parts into mechanical equipment.
Determine the materials, parts, tooling, and equipment needed to complete assigned work.
Monitor and verify quality in accordance with applicable process and quality-control procedures.
Work independently with limited supervision while exercising sound judgment.
Collaborate with coworkers and actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives.
Maintain a strong focus on quality, safety, accuracy, and attention to detail.
Required Qualifications
We're looking for candidates who bring:
Hands-on experience setting up and operating Flow waterjet equipment.
Understanding of machining theory, methods, and strategies.
Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, technical documentation, specifications, and tolerances.
Ability to use common machine shop hand tools and precision measurement equipment.
Formal machinist apprenticeship or equivalent combination of training and experience.
Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to prioritize and execute tasks effectively.
Strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work with limited supervision and make sound independent decisions.
Strong self-motivation and attention to detail.
Ability to work effectively within a collaborative, team-oriented environment.
Willingness and ability to learn new technologies and adapt to change.
Commitment to continuous learning and professional improvement.
Availability to work 2nd shift from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
Preferred Qualifications
Stand out from the crowd with:
Experience programming with Flow software.
Previous machining experience in an aerospace environment.
Why Join Us?
This isn't just another machining assignment. It's an opportunity to put your skills to work in the aerospace industry while partnering with PDS Tech Commercial
You'll have the opportunity to:
Earn a competitive $34.97 per hour.
Gain valuable experience in a highly technical aerospace manufacturing environment.
Work hands-on with Flow waterjet technology and specialized materials.
Join a team that values precision, collaboration, continuous improvement, and technical excellence.
Strengthen your aerospace manufacturing experience while expanding your machining expertise.
Pursue a position intended to be contract-to-hire, providing the potential for a longer-term career opportunity. Please note that direct hire is the intent but is not guaranteed.
Ready to Put Your Machining Skills to Work?
If precision is your passion and you're ready to take your machining career into the aerospace industry, PDS Tech Commercial wants to hear from you.
Apply today and bring your skills, craftsmanship, and attention to detail to an opportunity where every cut counts.
This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.
Pay Details: $34.97 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
The California Fair Chance Act
Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Job Number:
US_EN_33_022581_2607061
Job Location:
San Diego, CA
Per Diem:
--
Overtime:
--
Duration:
indef
Start Date:
ASAP
Input Date:
10/01/2026
Firm Name:
PDS TECH COMMERCIAL, INC
Attention: Address:
545 E JOHN CARPENTER FWY STE 950
City, State:
IRVING, TX 75062
Phone:
214/647-9600
800 Phone:
800/270-4737
Email:Client.Services@pdstech.com Website:Go To PDS Tech Commercial Website