California’s Mojave Micro Mill to Create 700 Jobs in Industrial Surge

A New Era for Steel Manufacturing in California

In a significant development for California’s industrial landscape, a new steel mill is poised to open soon, marking the state’s first such facility in over half a century. Located in Kern County, this project is drawing attention for its scale and the renewable energy efforts driving its construction.

Though the Mojave Micro Mill hasn’t garnered as much attention as other projects, such as the Mesabi Metallics steel complex in Iowa, it represents a bold step for California’s industrial sector. Scheduled to open next year, the mill in Kern County will be the state’s first new steel mill in over 50 years.

Pacific Steel Group, a San Diego-based company, initiated the project in spring 2025. Governor Gavin Newsom praised the project, emphasizing its potential to revitalize local manufacturing and integrate clean energy solutions. According to a statement from Newsom’s office, the mill will support essential infrastructure projects across the state.

The mill’s construction costs have risen from an initial estimate of $540 million to approximately $700 million, as confirmed by Pacific Steel officials. Despite this increase, Mark Olson, the company’s vice president of mill operations, assured that the facility will be unique in California for its combined melting and rolling capabilities.

The facility will include a main building spanning 500,000 square feet, alongside other structures. A 63-acre solar installation will provide renewable energy, reflecting California’s commitment to sustainable industry practices. “Our state-of-the-art facility will demonstrate that large-scale industrial manufacturing can thrive in California while leveraging the state’s commitment to renewable energy and a more sustainable industrial future,” Olson stated.

Situated on 174 acres near the Sierra Highway and Sopp Road, about 70 miles southeast of downtown Bakersfield, the mill is set to create around 700 jobs. These positions will range from welding to computer systems engineering, providing substantial employment opportunities in the region.

The Kern County Board of Supervisors has approved a tax incentive to encourage local hiring, promising $7,500 for each new job through the AdvanceKern initiative. This program, started in 2017, aims to promote lasting job creation and capital investment at above-average wage levels.

While Kern County Supervisor Chris Parlier did not comment by the time of publication, he has previously expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing its importance in making Kern County a prime location for business development.

Olson highlighted the mill’s potential to offer “family-sustaining jobs” to local residents, with incentives potentially exceeding $3 million over six years. The facility is anticipated to commence commercial operations by late August 2027.

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This article originally published at California plans to create 700 jobs at its first steel mill in over 50 years.