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Autoclave Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ascent Aerospace

Composite Technician

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$22 - $38/hr

Vacuum bag parts for room temperature, oven, and autoclave cure/de-bulk. * Assemble parts ... Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

ascentaerospace

Composite Technician

Santa Ana, CA

Vacuum bag parts for room temperature, oven, and autoclave cure/de-bulk. * Assemble parts ... Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

Extremity Care

Production Technician I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

Complete assigned training on standard operating procedures (SOPs) by required deadlines * Maintain ... Decontaminate, wrap, and autoclave reusable manufacturing supplies in accordance with SOPs

Extremity Care

Production Technician I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22.09 - $33.14/hr

Complete assigned training on standard operating procedures (SOPs) by required deadlines * Maintain ... Decontaminate, wrap, and autoclave reusable manufacturing supplies in accordance with SOPs

Extremity Care

Production Technician I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

Complete assigned training on standard operating procedures (SOPs) by required deadlines * Maintain ... Decontaminate, wrap, and autoclave reusable manufacturing supplies in accordance with SOPs

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Autoclave Operator information

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How much do autoclave operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for autoclave operator in California is $15.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $17.07 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 California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,481 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Manufacturing Technician I, Production Support

TANVEX BIOPHARMA USA INC

San Diego, CA • On-site

$18.25 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Description:

Under supervision, the Manufacturing Technician, Production Support, will perform routine manufacturing activities in GMP manufacturing areas, solution preparation, dispensing raw material, bioprocessing support and autoclave operation. Operations will be performed according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Work Instructions (WI) and Master Batch Records (MBR). Perform manufacturing steps, execute routine MBRs, and revise documents such as MBRs and SOPs as needed. Flexible shift schedules and overtime may be required.


Job Responsibilities:

  • Perform GMP manufacturing activities in assigned areas.
  • Perform routine cleaning activities in GMP manufacturing areas
  • Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), cGMPs, plant safety guidelines and other established procedures during the manufacturing process to produce quality products.
  • Set-up, operate, maintain and clean bioprocessing equipment.
  • Demonstrate good aseptic technique.
  • Perform dispensing raw material.
  • Basic troubleshooting of bioprocess equipment.
  • Perform manual cleaning and sterilization of parts and components.
  • Accurately complete and maintain detail-oriented process-related documentation of equipment logs and batch records following the good manufacturing documentation practices.
  • Draft and revise SOPs and batch records.
  • Address production issues and report any compliance related concerns to the supervisor.
Requirements:

Education and Experience:

  • High School Diploma, Bachelor's or advanced degree in life sciences or related discipline, or equivalent education and experience. 
  • High school diploma with 3 or more years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry
  • Bachelor's degree with 0-3 years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, or equivalent education and experience.


Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • cGMP manufacturing for biological products is preferred.
  • Fundamental knowledge of current biologics regulations and cGMP for drug substance operation.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Word and Excel. 
  • Able to work with pressurized systems, steam, and corrosive chemicals with necessary safety precautions.
  • Demonstrated ability to follow and document activities in written procedures and/or logbooks.
  • Detail oriented, strong team player. 
  • Effective collaboration skills and the ability to work cross functionally across categories and internal stakeholders.
  • Effective collaboration skills and the ability to work cross functionally across categories and internal stakeholders.