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Associate Operator Jobs in Salinas, CA (NOW HIRING)

Production Operator II

Salinas, CA · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

R10097875 Production Operator II (Open) Location: Salinas, CA - Filling industrial How will you ... Must be customer service oriented and able to interact with fellow Associates in a professional ...

Production Operator II

Salinas, CA · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

R10097875 Production Operator II (Open) Location: Salinas, CA - Filling industrial How will you ... Must be customer service oriented and able to interact with fellow Associates in a professional ...

Warehouse Associate

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

About the Company Capstone is a North American supply chain solutions partner with more than 650 operating locations, 19,000 associates, and 60,000 carriers. We have capabilities in freight ...

Reach Lift Operator

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

A forklift operator at UNFI is required to have a strong understanding of their lift, the pallets associate is carrying, productivity measures and safety procedures. Schedule: * We're fully ...

Warehouse Associate

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Capstone is a North American supply chain solutions partner with more than 650 operating locations, 19,000 associates, and 60,000 carriers. We have capabilities in freight management, warehouse and ...

Warehouse Associate

Gilroy, CA

$17 - $20/hr

Capstone is a North American supply chain solutions partner with more than 650 operating locations, 19,000 associates, and 60,000 carriers. We have capabilities in freight management, warehouse and ...

Warehouse Associate

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Capstone is a North American supply chain solutions partner with more than 650 operating locations, 19,000 associates, and 60,000 carriers. We have capabilities in freight management, warehouse and ...

Receiving Associate

Carmel, CA · On-site

$17.85 - $21.60/hr

... operating procedures * Complete required department and equipment training (must be forklift ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

Receiving Associate

Carmel, CA · On-site

$17.85 - $21.60/hr

... operating procedures * Complete required department and equipment training (must be forklift ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

Associate Publisher

Seaside, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Associate Publisher Milestone Communications Inc., publisher of Monterey County Weekly (the ... Our company is local and independently owned and operated. One-third of our staff has worked with ...

Sales Associate

Gilroy, CA

$16.90 - $23.75/hr

Overview About PHOENIX PHOENIX Retail, LLC is a retail platform operating the Express and Bonobos ... The Sales Associate is responsible for providing a great in-store shopping experience for our ...

Sales Associate

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $23.75/hr

Overview About PHOENIX PHOENIX Retail, LLC is a retail platform operating the Express and Bonobos ... Store Name Gilroy Premium Responsibilities Express is seeking a Retail Sales Associate to join our ...

Sales Associate

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $23.75/hr

Overview About PHOENIX PHOENIX Retail, LLC is a retail platform operating the Express and Bonobos ... The Sales Associate is responsible for providing a great in-store shopping experience for our ...

Part-Time Center Associate

Salinas, CA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

The Part-Time Center Associate delivers world-class customer service to all retail customers by receiving and processing packages for courier shipment and operating copiers, fax machines, binding ...

Part-Time Center Associate

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

The Part-Time Center Associate delivers world-class customer service to all retail customers by receiving and processing packages for courier shipment and operating copiers, fax machines, binding ...

Part-Time Center Associate

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

The Part-Time Center Associate delivers world-class customer service to all retail customers by receiving and processing packages for courier shipment and operating copiers, fax machines, binding ...

Part-Time Center Associate

Salinas, CA

$17 - $22.50/hr

The Part-Time Center Associate delivers world-class customer service to all retail customers by receiving and processing packages for courier shipment and operating copiers, fax machines, binding ...

Part-Time Center Associate

Salinas, CA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

The Part-Time Center Associate delivers world-class customer service to all retail customers by receiving and processing packages for courier shipment and operating copiers, fax machines, binding ...

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Associate Operator information

See Salinas, CA salary details

$12

$15

$17

How much do associate operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate operator in Salinas, CA is $15.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.40 and $16.88 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 Salinas, CA?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Salinas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,361 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Production Operator II

Airgas

Salinas, CA • On-site

$25 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Airgas rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 219 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 365 rated logistics


Job description

R10097875 Production Operator II (Open)
Location:
Salinas, CA - Filling industrial
How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW?
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces the unique perspectives of our employees, our customers, patients, community stakeholders, and cultures across the world. We believe that a variety of backgrounds makes our team stronger and more innovative.
At Airgas, we RESPECT, HONOR and VALUE diversity.
Airgas is Hiring for a Production Operator II in Salinas, CA!
We are looking for you!
  • Pay: $25.00 /hr. - $26.00 /hr.
  • Comprehensive Family Benefits: Airgas offers a full benefits package designed to support your whole life, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, and Disability Insurance.
  • Support for Parents: We offer up to 14-week paid child birth benefits to support growing families.
  • Future Security: 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match, Tuition Assistance, Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick time.
  • Early Access: Your benefits start after just 30 days of employment.

As a Production Operator II you will work collaboratively to safely and efficiently carry out daily plant operations, including filling, inspecting, and analyzing industrial, cryogenic, and medical gas cylinders. In this role, you will maintain alignment with safety, DOT, FDA, and OSHA standards while sustaining high product quality, working safely with hazardous materials, and supporting daily warehouse operations.
  • Collaborating across plant operations, including monitoring equipment to fill industrial gas mixes, cryogenic gases, and medical gas products, fulfilling both level 1 & 2 duties.
  • Inspects cylinders prior to filling, following established procedures as guided by government, Airgas, and distributor standards. Conducts a variety of safety checks per procedures, such as odor tests and checking caps and valves.
  • Analyzes products to ensure high quality, purity, and correct mixtures.
  • Works safely with high-pressure, medical, and liquid cylinders. Prepares high-pressure cylinders and cryogenic vessels for filling. Connects equipment to the manifold and evacuates cylinders to ensure standard purity.
  • Fills cylinders by pressure and weight, adhering to regulations and standards.
  • Supports the loading and unloading of cylinders on and off pallets and tractor trailers. Operates a forklift, pallet jack, and other warehouse equipment.
  • Coordinates documentation according to DOT, FDA, OSHA, and Airgas standards. Completes quality control sheets accurately.
  • Maintains clear awareness of hazards related to various gases, sizes, and contents of cylinders by reading and interpreting cylinder labels and tank color-coding. Accurately labels cylinders.
  • Upholds all government and company safety standards for working with hazardous materials/cylinder gases.
  • Contributes to maintaining a safe, clean, and orderly plant environment.
  • All employees are expected to perform any reasonable work request that falls within the qualifications but not specifically described.

Are you a MATCH?
Required Qualifications:
  • Must be able to work in a drug-free environment
  • Be able to regularly lift 75lbs and move more than 125lbs with the aid of material handling equipment

Preferred Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED Equivalent is preferred
  • Minimum of one (1) year related experience and/or training preferred
  • Must be customer service oriented and able to interact with fellow Associates in a professional manner
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and be detailed-oriented with good organizational skills
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, MSDS, and procedure manuals
  • Possess basic mathematic and written skills

The hourly base pay range for this position in California is $25.00 - $26.00. Please note that the hourly base pay information is a general guideline only. Airgas considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits
We care about and support our Airgas Families. This is evident not only through our competitive compensation but also through a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision plans, short-term and long-term disability, life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), pre-tax commuter transportation benefit, parental leave, vacation, sick time, floating holidays, jury duty and funeral/bereavement leave, and paid holidays for all eligible full-time employees.
Additionally, we offer our eligible employees a 401k plan with company matching funds, tuition reimbursement, discounted college tuition for eligible employees' dependents, and an Airgas Scholarship Program for dependent children.
Associates who are members of collective bargaining units should review their bargaining agreement to determine whether they are eligible for some or all of the benefits described here and to see any special terms or conditions for eligibility.
Your DIFFERENCES enhance our PERFORMANCE
At Airgas, we are committed to building a workplace that embraces the diversity of our employees, our customers, patients, community stakeholders and cultures across the world.
We welcome and consider applications from all qualified applicants, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability or any other protected characteristic. We strongly believe a diverse organization opens up opportunities for people to express their talent, both individually and collectively and it helps foster our ability to innovate by living our fundamentals, acting for our success and creating an engaging environment in a changing world.
About Airgas
Airgas, an Air Liquide company, is a leading U.S. supplier of industrial, medical and specialty gases, as well as hardgoods and related products; one of the largest U.S. suppliers of safety products; and a leading U.S. supplier of ammonia products and process chemicals. Through the passion and diversity of its 18,000 associates, Airgas fosters a culture of safety, customer success, sustainability and innovation. Airgas associates are empowered to share ideas, take initiative and make decisions.
Airgas is a subsidiary of Air Liquide, a world leader in gases, technologies and services for industry and healthcare. Present in 60 countries with approximately 66,500 employees, Air Liquide serves more than 4 million customers and patients.
Join us for a stimulating experience: At Airgas, you matter and so does the work you do. As a member of our team, you play an important role in the success of your team, making sure our products are created sustainably and delivered safely and efficiently. In turn, you'll find a welcoming workplace where you're valued for who you are and where you can fill your potential while growing a fulfilling career - whatever path you choose.
Equal Employment Opportunity Information
We are an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
Airgas, an Air Liquide Company is a Government contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Airgas does not discriminate against qualified applicants with disabilities, and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to the known disabilities of such individuals so as to ensure equal access to benefits and privileges of employment. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact us by email at us-accommodationrequest@airgas.com.
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About Airgas

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Airgas, an Air Liquide company, is a leading U.S. supplier of industrial, medical and specialty gases, as well as hardgoods and related products; one of the largest U.S. suppliers of safety products. Through the passion and diversity of its 18,000 associates, Airgas fosters a culture of safety, customer success, sustainability and innovation. Airgas associates are empowered to share ideas, take initiative and make decisions. Join us for a stimulating experience: you'll find a world of learning and development opportunities where inventiveness is at the heart of what we do, in an open, collaborative and respectful environment.

Industry

Chemical manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Radnor, PA, US

Year founded

1982

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