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Automation Machine Operator Jobs in Santa Clara, CA

Automation Controls EngineerSkip to main content#Automation Controls Engineer page is loaded ... Provide machine design feedback from an electrical, controls, and machine/operator safety ...

Automation Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$97K - $129K/yr

The Automation Controls Engineer supports the operation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of ... Provide machine design feedback from an electrical, controls, and machine/operator safety ...

Automation Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$97K - $129K/yr

Diagnose and resolve issues related to automation equipment, electrical systems, robotics, motion ... Provide machine design feedback from an electrical, controls, and machine/operator safety ...

... automation at scale. This role goes beyond maintaining existing lines-it's about architecting ... Provide machine design feedback from an electrical, controls, and machine/operator safety ...

Develop and maintain electrical schematics, control system documentation, and standard operating ... Knowledge of vision inspection systems and machine safety standards. * Experience with SQL ...

New

Maintain software, robotics and machinery * Set up, install, and monitor new equipment * Adjust ... Testing and operating automation equipment * Experience troubleshooting automation equipment

Automation Software Technician

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$35.47 - $48.77/hr

MES Integration: Support the integration of machine-level data with plant-wide Manufacturing ... Experience with ROS (Robot Operating System) or Python-based vision libraries (OpenCV, PyTorch)

New

... operations teams machine-speed enrichment and correlation, reducing analyst triage time and ... Proven experience designing, building, and operating enterprise-scale APIs, services, or ...

New

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Automation Machine Operator information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

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How much do automation machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for automation machine operator in Santa Clara, CA is $21.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation machine operator?

Automation machine operators are skilled workers who oversee the operation and maintenance of automated machinery in manufacturing, production, or industrial settings. Their responsibilities include starting and stopping machines, monitoring production quality, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and ensuring that equipment runs efficiently and safely. They may also perform routine maintenance and make minor repairs as needed. Automation machine operators play a crucial role in maximizing productivity and minimizing downtime in automated processes.

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

To thrive as an Automation Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or technical certification in manufacturing or related fields. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), automated production equipment, and industrial safety standards is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators quickly resolve issues and collaborate with maintenance and engineering staff. These capabilities ensure efficient machine operation, minimize downtime, and maintain product quality in automated manufacturing environments.

How does an automation machine operator typically collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams?

Automation Machine Operators often work closely with maintenance and engineering teams to ensure machines run efficiently and safely. When technical issues or unexpected downtime occur, operators are usually the first to identify and report the problem, providing detailed observations that help maintenance staff diagnose and fix issues quickly. Collaboration may also involve participating in routine equipment inspections, suggesting process improvements, and supporting equipment upgrades or testing. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as these partnerships minimize production delays and contribute to a safer, more productive work environment.

What is the difference between Automation Machine Operator vs Machine Setter?

AspectAutomation Machine OperatorMachine Setter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferredHigh school diploma; technical training or certifications may be required
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants with automated equipmentFactories, manufacturing lines, setting up and adjusting machinery
Job FocusMonitoring, controlling, and maintaining automated systemsPreparing, installing, and adjusting machinery for production

Automation Machine Operators primarily oversee automated systems, ensuring smooth operation and troubleshooting. Machine Setters focus on preparing and adjusting machines before production. Both roles require technical skills and work in manufacturing environments, but their core responsibilities differ in automation oversight versus machine setup.

What job categories do people searching Automation Machine Operator jobs in Santa Clara, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Machine Operator jobs in Santa Clara, CA are:

Infographic showing various Automation Machine Operator job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,425 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Automation Software Engineer (Machine Control)

FormFactor, Inc.

Livermore, CA • On-site

$136K - $178K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


FormFactor rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Forming Our Future together
FormFactor, Inc. (NASDAQ: FORM), is a leading provider of essential test and measurement technologies along the full semiconductor product life cycle - from characterization, modeling, reliability, and design de-bug, to qualification and production test. Semiconductor companies rely upon FormFactor's products and services to accelerate profitability by optimizing device performance and advancing yield knowledge. The company serves customers through its network of facilities in Asia, Europe, and North America.
Rooted in our core values - Focus on the Customer, Ownership & Accountability, Respectfully & Effectively Communicate, and Motivate & Develop People - we foster an environment where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated. Everyone can make an impact here. Whether it's improving products, supporting customers, or positively influencing peers and the community, the contributions of our people matter.
Shift:
The regular hours for this position are day shift.
Job Description:
The successful candidate will be responsible for design and development of control software applications for high precision manufacturing machines, working individually and in teams, supporting our automation initiatives. The candidate has very strong C#/C++ programming and debugging skills, and work experience in machine control and multi-threaded/multi-process environments. Successful candidate is passionate about Machine automation and will be expected to stay up to date with the latest technologies and trends in the field of automation and software development.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Design and implement robust Machine control software for automated sorting, assembly, and inspection Machines.
  • Plans, designs, develops and tests software systems or applications for software enhancements and new products including cloud-based or internet-related tools.
  • Work closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to create reliable solutions tailored for high-volume manufacturing.
  • Integrate Automation machines with MES Software and process flows.
  • Participate in all phases of the Software Development Life Cycle, including Unit Testing and Release
  • Create Technical Design and User level documentation for their development projects

Software Development Skills:
  • Proven experience in designing and hands-on development of large multi-threaded/multi-tasking software systems.
  • Programming: Proficiency in C# and C++ and OOD/OOP
  • Experience programming for motion control and data acquisition systems.
  • Computer vision and Image processing experience. Experience with Cognex VisionPro and Machine learning desired
  • Operating Systems: Experienced with Windows and Unix development environments

Skills:
Automation, C++ Programming Language, Computer Vision, C Sharp (Programming Language), Data Acquisition Systems, Image Processing, Machine Learning (ML), Motion Control Systems, Object-Oriented Design (OOD), Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
Education & Experience:
Minimum of 8 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 6 years and a Master's degree; or a PhD with 3 years experience; or equivalent experience | Required
Pay Range:
$136,200.00 - $178,815.00
Pay Range Explained:
This role in Livermore, California pays between $136,200.00 and $178,815.00 per year, depending on your experience, skills, and background. Pay may vary in other locations. We offer a full benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, a 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), and paid time off. You'll also be eligible for quarterly profit-sharing bonuses and flexible spending or savings accounts.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
FormFactor is an equal opportunity employer. FormFactor complies with all national, state, and local laws that seek to promote equal opportunities for any applicant or employee without regard to age, race, color, gender, gender identity/expression, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, disability, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, military service, or any other legally protected characteristics. These protections apply to all aspects of employment, including but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, training, promotions, and compensation.
For roles that are designated as remote-eligible, employees cannot be located in: AL, AK, AR, DE, GA, HI, IL, IA, KY, LA, ME, MD, MS, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, ND, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, WV, WI, WY. This list is continuously evolving and being updated, please check back with us if the state you live in is on the exclusion list. A role is remote-eligible only when it is listed as "Remote" in the job location.

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