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Associate Operator Jobs in Bakersfield, CA (NOW HIRING)

Operator I

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

$36.80 - $49.99/hr

The Operator will support current plant operations of utilities and logistics; support maintenance ... Associate or technology degree in process technology or science discipline preferred Physical ...

Operator

Bakersfield, CA

$36.80 - $49.99/hr

The Operator will support current plant operations of utilities and logistics; support maintenance ... Associate or technology degree in process technology or science discipline preferredPhysical ...

Operator

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

$39K - $63K/yr

Avantor is seeking an Operator at our NuSil site. This role will be a full-time position based in ... Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to ...

Operator

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

$39K - $63K/yr

Avantor is seeking an Operator at our NuSil site. This role will be a full-time position based in ... Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to ...

Operator

Bakersfield, CA ยท On-site

$39K - $63K/yr

Avantor is seeking an Operator at our NuSil site. This role will be a full-time position based in ... Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to ...

Forklift Operator

Shafter, CA ยท On-site

$25.07/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In addition, the Warehouse Associate will be responsible and accountable for working ... Technical Knowledge, Skills and Abilities * Entry level operating knowledge of Microsoft Office ...

Forklift Operator

Shafter, CA ยท On-site

$25.07/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In addition, the Warehouse Associate will be responsible and accountable for working ... Technical Knowledge, Skills and Abilities * Entry level operating knowledge of Microsoft Office ...

Injection Operator

Bakersfield, CA

$23.52 - $31.16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Injection Operator Injection Operator performs a variety of tasks requiring knowledge of injection ... Associate's Degree Certification/License: * Required: N/A * Preferred: N/A Foreign Language

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Associate Operator information

See Bakersfield, CA salary details

$11

$14

$16

How much do associate operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate operator in Bakersfield, CA is $14.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.74 and $16.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate operator?

Associate Operators are entry-level professionals responsible for supporting the daily operations of a facility, such as a manufacturing plant, warehouse, or control room. Their duties typically include monitoring equipment, performing basic maintenance, following safety protocols, and ensuring production processes run smoothly. They often work under the supervision of more experienced operators and may assist with troubleshooting issues or reporting problems. This role is a key starting point for those looking to build a career in operations or production environments.

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

To thrive as an Associate Operator, you need a solid understanding of production processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industry-specific machinery, safety protocols, and basic computer systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities help individuals excel in monitoring operations and addressing issues quickly. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production, ensuring safety, and contributing to overall operational success.

What are some typical challenges an associate operator might encounter during daily operations?

As an Associate Operator, common challenges include quickly troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, adapting to unexpected changes in production schedules, and maintaining high attention to detail during repetitive tasks. You may also need to coordinate with maintenance and quality assurance teams to ensure safety and compliance standards are met. Effective communication and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for handling these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Associate Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectAssociate OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production linesFactories, industrial settings, production floors
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly, and production industriesWidely used in manufacturing, processing, and industrial sectors
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in operations, monitor equipment, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, ensure proper functioning, troubleshoot issues

Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, with Associate Operators typically supporting machine operations and performing basic tasks, while Machine Operators focus on directly handling machinery and ensuring smooth production processes.

Which associate operator job pays the most?

The highest-paying associate operator roles are often found in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and power generation, where specialized skills and certifications like OSHA training or technical licenses are required. These positions typically offer higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and company size.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Bakersfield, CA?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:

What cities near Bakersfield, CA are hiring for Associate Operator jobs?

Cities near Bakersfield, CA with the most Associate Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Bakersfield, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,898 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Operator I

GRAPEVINE OPERATING COMPANY LLC

Bakersfield, CA โ€ข On-site

$36.80 - $49.99/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description


Job Summary:

The Operator will support current plant operations of utilities and logistics; support maintenance, construction, commissioning activities for the conversion of the site to renewable fuels production; and post startup operations of the facility in a safe, efficient and environmentally compliant manner in accordance with procedures and objectives. This is a rotating (days/night) 12-hour shift position including weekends, and holidays that requires reliable attendance.


Essential Functions:

  • Monitor and operate process and utility units, tank farms/logistics utilizing a wide range of control systems and equipment that includes pressure vessels, reactors, tanks, mixers, heat exchangers, pumps, compressors, boilers and furnaces
  • Perform and document unit rounds in accordance with round sheets/calling cards
  • Employ standard operating procedures to adjust, maintain, start, stop production equipment
  • Monitor and make needed adjustments to keep system processes, including flows, temperatures, and pressures, based on targets and within operating limits
  • Safely collect samples to identify product quality issues
  • Read unit gauges to determine the flow rate of product into and from tanks and the amount of product in tanks
  • Communicate with the other Unit Operators, Maintenance, and Supervisor to make field adjustments in response to changing process conditions to address or prevent issues
  • Operation of manual and automatic valves, meters, pumps and transfer systems that move product between tanks and process units
  • Report safety deficiencies and takes appropriate corrective or mitigating action
  • Participate in all health, safety, and environmental programs
  • Perform housekeeping to maintain a clean work environment and clean equipment such as filters, tanks, exchangers and other equipment
  • Available to work varied schedules and take on call
  • Comply with all Company safety and environmental practices
  • Perform other tasks as assigned


Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Must have a valid Driver’s license and clean driving record, and be able to pass pre-employment background screening and drug screen

  • Ability to qualify on multiple jobs including console (board) position

  • Able to perform rounds on shift with minimal supervision

  • Proficient computer skills, specifically with Google G Suite and Microsoft Office

  • Be able to respond to emergency calls as needed

  • Good verbal and written communication skills

  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail

  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

  • Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment


Supervisory Responsibilities:

  • None

Education and Experience:

  • Must be certified on 3 plant jobs at BKRF

  • High school diploma or GED required

  • 5 year minimum experience in refining or chemical plant operations required

  • Associates degree or higher and Honeywell DCS experience preferred

  • Honeywell DCS board operation preferred

  • Two (2) years of experience in mechanical maintenance position preferred

  • Associate or technology degree in process technology or science discipline preferred

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to pass a physical test of pushing, pulling, and lifting a minimum of 50 lbs

  • Ability to work in confined spaces and wear self-contained breathing apparatus

  • Must be able to climb ladders and or stairs on tanks, vessels and structures; wear respirator; work around equipment containing high pressures and temperatures and various chemicals

  • Prolonged periods of standing and walking

  • Ability to perform repetitive movements over long periods of time

  • Requires frequent reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, and crouching

  • Requires lifting, positioning, pushing, and/or transferring equipment and materials


Other duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Grapevine Operating Company 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.