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Assembly Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

What You'll Do As a 1st Shift Machine Operator, you'll be integral to our daily production ... Experience with stamping presses or automated assembly equipment is a significant plus. * Technical ...

Laser Machine Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$41K - $58K/yr

... assembly and testing--all under one roof at its state-of-the-art facilities in Sunnyvale ... The Laser Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining the laser ...

$20 - $24/hr

The Machine Operator produces quality product according to precise specifications within time ... Studies and interprets assembly instructions, and verifies specifications. Conducts dimensional and ...

Machine Operator 2nd Shift

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Standard Operating Procedures experience * Familiarity of G & M Code programming techniques ... Previous race or production engine assembly or rebuilding experience * Previous Aerospace or ...

Machine Operator

Temecula, CA · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Use microscopes for inspection and assembly tasks. * Utilize hand tools to manipulate or handle ... operating across North America and Asia. As a nationally and locally certified Minority Business ...

Be Seen First

The Selective Solder Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, programming ... Interpret assembly instructions, schematics, and diagrams for correct component placement. * verify ...

Machine Operator II-Sparks, Nevada

Reno, NV

$17 - $20.25/hr

Job Title: Machine Operator II Shift: Days and Nights Department: Electrode Job Summary: The ... Previous experience in a warehouse/manufacturing environment, automation, or assembly is preferred.

Machine Operator I-Sparks, Nevada

Reno, NV · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Machine Operator l Shift: Days and Nights Department: Electrode Job Summary: The Machine Operator ... Previous experience in a warehouse/manufacturing environment, automation, or assembly is preferred.

Machine Operator - Saw

Fremont, CA · On-site

$22.26 - $37.84/hr

The Machine Operator will set up and operate horizontal general labor including but not limited to ... Load and unload various types of cleaning equipment, miscellaneous assembly, inspecting, alcohol ...

The Machine Operator will set up and operate horizontal general labor including but not limited to ... Load and unload various types of cleaning equipment, miscellaneous assembly, inspecting, alcohol ...

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For Production section, 1 year + of related machine operator experience such as Pasteurizer ... Inspect finished product on assembly line. * Perform maintenance of filling and packing machinery ...

Machine Operator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Perform a combination of assembly, repair, and test operations on medical device assemblies under ... operating across North America and Asia. As a nationally and locally certified Minority Business ...

Showing results 21-40

Assembly Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do assembly machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for assembly machine operator in California is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assembly machine operator?

Assembly machine operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain machinery used in the production and assembly of products or components. They ensure machines run efficiently, monitor the quality of produced items, and may perform basic troubleshooting or repairs. These operators often work in manufacturing environments and must follow safety protocols to prevent accidents and maintain product standards. Attention to detail and the ability to work with precision are important qualities for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assembly machine operator?

To thrive as an Assembly Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, basic hand tools, and experience with quality control systems or certifications like OSHA safety training are often required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions precisely help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by assembly machine operators, and how can they be addressed?

Assembly Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as managing repetitive tasks, maintaining high attention to detail, and troubleshooting minor machine issues. Staying focused and following safety protocols are crucial to avoid mistakes or accidents. Many employers provide on-the-job training and encourage teamwork, which helps operators quickly learn best practices and resolve technical problems efficiently. Regular communication with supervisors and maintenance teams also ensures a smooth workflow and fosters a supportive work environment.

What is the difference between Assembly Machine Operator vs Production Worker?

AspectAssembly Machine OperatorProduction Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; minimal specialized training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or assembly line, operating machineryGeneral factory or production floor, performing various tasks
Job FocusOperating and monitoring assembly machinesPerforming manual or semi-automated tasks in production

While both roles work in manufacturing settings, Assembly Machine Operators focus on operating specific machinery to assemble products, requiring technical skills and machine knowledge. Production Workers perform broader tasks, often manual, in the manufacturing process. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and career goals.

What job categories do people searching Assembly Machine Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Assembly Machine Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Assembly Machine Operator jobs in CA?

For Assembly Machine Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Assembly Machine Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,957 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Machine Operator 1st Shift

Arango HRS

San Marcos, CA

$17.50/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

About This Opportunity

Are you someone who loves working with their hands, has a keen eye for detail, and takes pride in seeing a tangible product come to life? We're looking for a dedicated Machine Operator to join our team on the 1st shift, where you'll be at the heart of our production process, transforming raw materials into high-quality finished goods. This isn't just about pressing buttons; it's about mastering precision, contributing to continuous improvement, and ensuring every product meets our rigorous standards.

At Arango HRS, we partner with leading manufacturing companies, offering you the chance to work in dynamic environments that value innovation and efficiency. While this is a contract role, it provides an excellent opportunity to gain diverse experience with cutting-edge machinery and expand your skill set within various production settings. You'll not only operate critical equipment but also play a vital role in maintaining its peak performance and contributing to a culture of operational excellence. This position offers a clear path to developing specialized manufacturing expertise and potentially opening doors to long-term career growth within the industry.

We believe in empowering our team members, providing them with the tools and knowledge to succeed. You'll be joining a supportive environment where your contributions are recognized, and your growth is encouraged. If you're ready to make an immediate impact and build valuable experience in a fast-paced manufacturing setting, this is the perfect opportunity to kickstart or advance your career.

What You'll Do

As a 1st Shift Machine Operator, you'll be integral to our daily production, ensuring smooth operations and top-notch output. Heres a glimpse of what your days will entail:

  • Operate Advanced Machinery: You will expertly set up, run, and monitor various state-of-the-art production machines, such as stamping presses and automated assembly lines, to accurately produce components according to specifications and meet daily production targets.
  • Quality Assurance: Perform thorough in-process and final inspections and conduct various tests on products using precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers) to guarantee they meet our stringent quality standards. Youll be a frontline guardian of product excellence.
  • Continuous Improvement Champion: Actively participate in real-time analysis of production data and daily production meetings. Your insights will be crucial in identifying opportunities for process optimization and contributing directly to our ongoing quality improvement initiatives.
  • Maintain Operational Flow: Execute routine preventative maintenance tasks and perform basic troubleshooting on machinery to ensure continuous, efficient operation. This includes lubricating parts, cleaning components, and making minor adjustments as needed.
  • Collaborative Problem Solving: Work closely with the Maintenance team to promptly address and resolve any complex mechanical or technical issues that arise, minimizing downtime and supporting overall productivity.
  • Data Management: Accurately collect and input critical production data, such as output quantities, defect rates, and machine performance metrics, into our digital systems like Excel and JD Edwards throughout your shift.
  • Safety and Organization: Maintain an exceptionally clean, organized, and safe work environment. You'll be proactive in identifying and reporting any potential machine malfunctions, safety hazards, or operational inefficiencies to ensure a secure and productive workspace for everyone.
Compensation & Rewards

For this crucial 1st Shift Machine Operator role, we offer a competitive hourly wage of $17.50. This position is structured as a contract role, providing valuable experience and flexibility. As a contract employee, benefits such as health insurance, dental, vision, retirement plans, and paid time off are not provided directly by Arango HRS. However, we are committed to providing consistent work and a supportive environment where you can excel. We also offer potential for overtime hours, allowing you to increase your earning potential based on production needs.

What You Bring

We're looking for a detail-oriented and reliable individual who is eager to contribute to a high-performing team. To thrive in this role, you should possess:

  • Experience: A minimum of 1 year of experience operating production machinery in a manufacturing or industrial setting. Experience with stamping presses or automated assembly equipment is a significant plus.
  • Technical Aptitude: A basic understanding of mechanical principles and the ability to perform routine machine adjustments and preventative maintenance tasks.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to identify and troubleshoot common machine issues effectively and communicate more complex problems to the maintenance team.
  • Attention to Detail: A keen eye for quality, capable of performing precise inspections and identifying even minor defects.
  • Data Entry Skills: Proficiency in basic computer applications, including Microsoft Excel, for accurate data entry and record-keeping. Experience with ERP systems like JD Edwards is a bonus.
  • Communication: Clear and effective communication skills to collaborate with team members, supervisors, and the maintenance department.
  • Physical Stamina: The ability to perform the essential functions of this position, which may include standing for extended periods, bending, lifting up to 25 pounds, and repetitive motions, with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Work Ethic: A strong commitment to safety protocols, efficiency, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
Who Thrives Here

You'll truly excel as a Machine Operator on our team if you are someone who:

  • Is Meticulous and Detail-Oriented: You take pride in precision work, ensuring every product meets exact specifications and every piece of data is accurately recorded. You notice the small things that make a big difference.
  • Is Proactive and Resourceful: You don't wait for problems to escalate; you're quick to identify potential issues, troubleshoot effectively, and seek solutions or assistance when needed. You enjoy figuring things out.
  • Possesses a Strong Work Ethic: You are reliable, punctual, and committed to consistently delivering high-quality work, understanding the impact your role has on the entire production line.
  • Is a Team Player: You enjoy collaborating with colleagues, sharing insights, and supporting the collective goal of efficient and high-quality production. You communicate openly and respectfully.
  • Is Adaptable and Eager to Learn: Manufacturing environments can evolve, and you're excited by the prospect of learning new machinery, techniques, and contributing to continuous improvement processes.
  • Values Safety: You prioritize safety above all else, adhering strictly to protocols and actively contributing to a hazard-free work environment.
  • Aims for Growth: While this is a contract role, you see it as an opportunity to build a solid foundation of manufacturing experience and are keen to develop specialized skills that can lead to future career advancement.
The Details

This is a 1st Shift position, typically operating from Monday to Friday, 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM, with potential for overtime as production demands require. The work will be performed on-site at our manufacturing partner's facility, providing a hands-on, dynamic environment. No travel is required for this role. All necessary safety equipment and tools will be provided to you to ensure a safe and productive work experience.

Ready to Apply?

If you're ready to bring your skills to a dynamic manufacturing environment and become a vital part of our production team, we encourage you to apply! We're excited to learn more about you and how your expertise can contribute to our success. Submit your application through our careers portal today.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our organization. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Reasonable Accommodations:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of this position. If you require an accommodation during the application process or while performing the essential functions of this role, please contact the hiring team.

We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. Veterans, individuals with disabilities, and members of underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.