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Autoclave Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Autoclave Operator

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Autoclave Operator to lead the implementation and operation of a new autoclave system within our growing defense-focused manufacturing environment. This is a ...

Kolb-Lena, Inc.

Autoclave Operator

Lena, IL · On-site

$19/hr

AUTOCLAVE OPERATORS APPLY HERE! Potential for all expenses paid training in France! Summary/Objective This position is responsible for all tasks involved in the production of brie, goat, and feta ...

Joby Aviation

Autoclave Operator

Marina, CA · On-site

$20 - $32/hr

In this role, you will have the opportunity to further develop your skills in operating and monitoring autoclave equipment used in the curing of composite materials.Job duties include ...

AVTECH Global

Autoclave Operator Tech

Savannah, GA

$21.21 - $25.66/hr

Aviation Technology Associates (AVTECH Global) is looking for an Autoclave Operator Tech. Pay Rate: $21.21 to $25.66 per hour (depending on experience, location, etc.) Job Type: Full-time, Contract ...

AVTECH Global

Autoclave Operator Tech

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$21.21 - $25.66/hr

Aviation Technology Associates (AVTECH Global) is looking for an Autoclave Operator Tech. Pay Rate: $21.21 to $25.66 per hour (depending on experience, location, etc.) Job Type: Full-time, Contract ...

AVTECH Global

Autoclave Operator Tech

Savannah, GA · On-site

$21.21 - $25.66/hr

Aviation Technology Associates (AVTECH Global) is looking for an Autoclave Operator Tech. Pay Rate: $21.21 to $25.66 per hour (depending on experience, location, etc.) Job Type: Full-time, Contract ...

Kaman Corporation

Autoclave Techn

Bennington, VT · On-site

TITLE: 3rd shift Cutting Table Operator /Backup autoclave operator REPORTS TO: Production Cell Leader-Lay-up/Kitting PURPOSE OF POSITION: The individual will have daily responsibilities related to ...

Aerotek

Autoclave Washroom Tech

Irvine, CA

$20 - $21/hr

Follow written instructions, work orders, and standard operating procedures related to washing and autoclave preparation. * Communicate any issues with equipment, cleanliness, or device condition to ...

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Autoclave Operator information

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How much do autoclave operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for autoclave operator in the United States is $15.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an autoclave operator?

An Autoclave Operator is a skilled technician responsible for operating and maintaining autoclave machines, which use high pressure and temperature to sterilize equipment, materials, or to cure composites and other products. They ensure that items are loaded correctly, monitor cycles, and verify that sterilization or curing meets safety and quality standards. Autoclave Operators often work in healthcare, manufacturing, or research settings where strict hygiene or material properties are critical. Their role also includes routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and documentation of sterilization or processing procedures.

What does an autoclave operator do?

An autoclave is a powerful heated machine used for chemical reactions using high pressure and temperatures, such as steam sterilization. Autoclave operators operate and monitor this specialized pressure chamber in different settings. They work in hospitals or other healthcare facilities sterilizing surgical devices and other medical instruments. You may also function as an autoclave operator for a manufacturer of rubber products or yarn. In this position, you utilize the machine to vulcanize rubber or cure rubber composites and preset and preshrink yarn.

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

To thrive as an Autoclave Operator, you need a solid understanding of sterilization processes, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with autoclave machinery, pressure gauges, temperature controls, and sometimes certification in hazardous materials handling or OSHA compliance is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong organizational skills help operators maintain strict safety and quality standards. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure effective sterilization, prevent contamination, and maintain workplace safety in industries like healthcare and manufacturing.

What are some typical challenges an autoclave operator might face during daily operations?

Autoclave Operators often encounter challenges like maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring correct loading to achieve consistent sterilization or material treatment. They must also carefully monitor temperature, pressure, and timing to avoid process deviations, which can impact product quality or safety. Effective communication with maintenance teams and quality control staff is essential for quickly resolving issues and maintaining workflow efficiency.

What is the difference between Autoclave Operator vs Sterilization Technician?

AspectAutoclave OperatorSterilization Technician
CertificationsOften requires OSHA or industry-specific safety trainingTypically requires sterilization or healthcare-related certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, laboratories, medical device manufacturingHospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical facilities
Job FocusOperating autoclaves to sterilize equipment and materialsPreparing, monitoring, and documenting sterilization processes

Both roles involve sterilization processes, but Autoclave Operators primarily focus on operating autoclaves in industrial or manufacturing settings, while Sterilization Technicians work mainly in healthcare environments ensuring proper sterilization of medical tools. Certifications and work environments overlap but differ based on industry specifics.

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Autoclave Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Autoclave Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,898 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Autoclave Operator

Oxnard, CA • On-site

W3Global Inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about W3Global Inc.external

$75K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Autoclave Operator to lead the implementation and operation of a new autoclave system within our growing defense-focused manufacturing environment. This is a hands-on, high-impact role supporting laminated composite fabrication and a wide range of R&D programs that vary in scope, complexity, and technical requirements.

As this is a new capability within the company, the selected candidate will play a foundational role in establishing autoclave operations, developing processes, setting up clean room standards, and defining best practices. The ideal candidate is technically strong, self-directed, process-driven, and comfortable building systems from the ground up.

Job Duties/Responsibilities

  • Autoclave Operations & Process Development

  • Lead commissioning, qualification, and day-to-day operation of a new autoclave system

  • Develop and optimize cure cycles for laminated composite structures

  • Establish operating procedures, work instructions, and safety protocols

  • Monitor and document temperature, pressure, and vacuum profiles to ensure process control and repeatability

  • Troubleshoot cure anomalies and implement corrective actions

  • Composite Manufacturing Support

  • Support layup, bagging, and preparation of composite assemblies for cure

  • Collaborate with engineering on material selection, tooling concepts, and process parameters

  • Interpret technical drawings, specifications, and material data sheets

  • Ensure compliance with defense and customer quality requirements

  • Clean Room & Facility Setup

  • Assist in design and setup of clean room environment

  • Develop contamination control procedures and material handling standards

  • Define storage, freezer management, and material traceability systems

  • R&D Program Support

  • Work closely with engineering teams on prototype and low-volume development programs

  • Adapt processes to meet evolving technical and performance requirements

  • Collect and analyze process data to support qualification and validation efforts

  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives

  • Maintenance and Safety

  • Perform routine cleaning, calibration, and troubleshooting of autoclave equipment

  • Documentation & Compliance

  • Create and maintain process documentation, travelers, and quality records

  • Support audits and internal quality reviews

  • Ensure adherence to safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements

Required Qualifications

  • 5+ years of hands-on autoclave operation experience in aerospace, defense, or advanced composites manufacturing

  • Strong understanding of composite materials (prepregs, core materials, adhesives)

  • Experience developing or modifying cure cycles

  • Familiarity with vacuum bagging techniques and composite layup practices

  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications

  • Experience working in controlled or clean-room environments

  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

  • Comfortable working in a dynamic R&D environment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience commissioning new autoclave equipment

  • Background in aerospace or defense manufacturing

  • Familiarity with NADCAP, AS9100, or similar quality systems

  • Experience writing standard operating procedures (SOPs)

  • Technical certification in composites manufacturing

Additional Requirements

  • Must be a US Citizen

  • May be required to work weekends to meet project deadlines

  • Must be able to lift 50+ pounds, and stand for long periods

  • Work onsite in Oxnard, CA full-time

Requirements added by the job poster

  • 3+ years of work experience with Composites

  • 3+ years of work experience with Autoclave

W3Global logo

About W3Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs. As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

2006

View All W3Global Jobs