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Basic Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Smiths Machine

Machine Operator

Escondido, CA

$18 - $21/hr

Machine Operator l Schedule : Shift 1: Mon-Thurs, 4:30am-3pm Pay Range: $18-21/hour depending on ... Make basic machine adjustments as needed Inspection & Quality * Inspect parts using gauges and ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The advanced machine operator can independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the machine shop supervisor and is available to train basic machine operators in the setup of individual ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The advanced machine operator can independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the machine shop supervisor and is available to train basic machine operators in the setup of individual ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA

$21.91/hr

The advanced machine operator can independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the machine shop supervisor and is available to train basic machine operators in the setup of individual ...

ARCH Global Precision

Machine Operator

Escondido, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Machine Operator l Schedule : Shift 1: Mon-Thurs, 4:30am-3pm Pay Range: $18-21/hour depending on ... Make basic machine adjustments as needed Inspection & Quality * Inspect parts using gauges and ...

TriCom Quest

Be Seen First

Machine Operator at Yakult USA - 1st / 2nd / 3rd shift

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

Basic machine operating skills. * Technical degree/license in food technology/science or relevant experience. * Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Must have effective verbal and ...

Masco Corporation

Machine Operator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$17.40 - $23.65/hr

The Machine Operator will, Operate a variety of machines to produce precision parts to the required ... Set up, adjust, and operate all of the basic machine tools and many specialized or advanced ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The advanced machine operator can independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the machine shop supervisor and is available to train basic machine operators in the setup of individual ...

Ichor Systems

Machine Operator

Fremont, CA · On-site

$19.33 - $32.84/hr

Ichor Systems in Fremont, CA has an immediate opening for a Machine Operator - General Machine Shop ... Perform basic set-ups and operate machines in more than one assigned area * Operate complex ...

Ichor Systems

Machine Operator

Fremont, CA

$19.33 - $32.84/hr

Ichor Systems in Fremont, CA has an immediate opening for a Machine Operator - General Machine Shop ... Perform basic set-ups and operate machines in more than one assigned area * Operate complex ...

Ichor Systems

Machine Operator

Fremont, CA · On-site

$19.33 - $32.84/hr

Ichor Systems in Fremont, CA has immediate openings for Temporary Machine Operators - General ... Perform basic set-ups and operate machines in more than one assigned area * Operate complex ...

Sterling Foods

Machine Operator

Azusa, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

The Machine Operator must be cross functional in Food Safety to be able to perform in any area ... Good mechanical skills • Good communication skills • Writing ability • Knowledge of basic ...

Sterling Foods

Machine Operator

Azusa, CA

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

The Machine Operator must be cross functional in Food Safety to be able to perform in any area ... Good mechanical skills • Good communication skills • Writing ability • Knowledge of basic ...

Sterling Foods

Machine Operator

Azusa, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

The Machine Operator must be cross functional in Food Safety to be able to perform in any area ... Good mechanical skills • Good communication skills • Writing ability • Knowledge of basic ...

ODI Manufacturing LLC

Machine Operator

Riverside, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

Description: The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining ... Basic math and measuring skills * Knowledge of safety procedures and PPE requirements * Ability to ...

Adecco

Machine Operator

Huntington Beach, CA

$20.25 - $23/hr

Machine Operator jobs require candidates to perform semiskilled work operating a variety of ... Basic math, reading, writing, and computer skills. What's in this for you? · Pay rates starting at ...

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All JobsBasic Machine Operator JobsBasic Machine Operator Jobs in California

Basic Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do basic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for basic machine operator in California is $17.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a basic machine operator?

A basic machine operator is a worker responsible for operating and monitoring manufacturing or processing machinery, often in factories or production plants. They typically follow safety protocols, perform routine maintenance, and may need to understand technical instructions or use tools like control panels. Basic skills in math, attention to detail, and sometimes a high school diploma or certification are required.

What is the difference between Basic Machine Operator vs Industrial Machine Operator?

AspectBasic Machine OperatorIndustrial Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, assembly linesHeavy manufacturing facilities, large-scale production plants
Job ScopeOperate basic machinery, perform routine tasksOperate complex machinery, oversee production processes

Basic Machine Operators and Industrial Machine Operators both work in manufacturing environments, often requiring similar certifications and working in factories. However, Industrial Machine Operators typically handle more complex equipment and have a broader scope of responsibilities. The choice depends on the complexity of machinery and level of responsibility required.

What are common machine operator job titles?

Common machine operator job titles include Production Operator, Manufacturing Operator, Equipment Operator, CNC Operator, and Assembly Line Worker. These roles typically require knowledge of machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications or training in specific equipment or processes.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Some high-paying jobs for a Basic Machine Operator or similar roles can reach $700 a day, especially with overtime, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries like manufacturing, construction, or oil and gas. These roles often require experience, certifications, or working in remote or hazardous environments, and pay varies based on location and employer policies.

How much do beginner operators make?

Beginner machine operators typically earn between $12 and $18 per hour, depending on the industry, location, and required skills. Entry-level positions often require basic knowledge of machinery and safety protocols, with wages increasing with experience and certifications.
What cities in California are hiring for Basic Machine Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Basic Machine Operator job openings:
Basic Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Basic Machine Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Machine Operator

Smiths Machine

Escondido, CA

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Machine Operator l

Schedule: Shift 1: Mon-Thurs, 4:30am-3pm

Pay Range: $18-21/hour depending on technical abilities

 

Why Join Us?

  • Entry point into precision machining and manufacturing careers
  • Opportunities for advancement into setup, programming, or engineering roles
  • Hands-on training and team-oriented environment

 

Position Summary

We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Machine Operator I to support production operations in a precision manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for operating machines, inspecting parts, and maintaining production flow while ensuring quality, safety, and efficiency standards are met.

This is an entry-level position with opportunities for growth into advanced machining and setup roles.

 

Key Responsibilities

Machine Operation

  • Operate automatic and semi-automatic machines to produce parts per blueprints and job travelers
  • Load materials into machines, including maintaining bar feeders
  • Monitor machine operation and identify issues such as malfunctions or out-of-tolerance conditions
  • Make basic machine adjustments as needed

Inspection & Quality

  • Inspect parts using gauges and measurement tools to ensure conformance to specifications
  • Follow SPC procedures and inspection methods (including 3-cup system)
  • Maintain accuracy and quality in all work performed

Production & Documentation

  • Record production data, inspection results, and shift activity in ERP or shop floor systems
  • Complete required documentation such as inspection forms and production logs
  • Write clear and accurate shift notes

Material Handling & Housekeeping

  • Clean, count, and package finished product
  • Perform basic preventative maintenance tasks such as chip removal, oil cleanup, and machine cleaning
  • Maintain clean and organized work area

Communication & Teamwork

  • Communicate machine, material, or quality issues to supervisors or leads
  • Follow instructions from supervisors and adhere to standard procedures
  • Support team productivity and workflow

Safety

  • Follow all safety procedures and wear required PPE
  • Report unsafe conditions and use equipment properly

Qualifications

Required

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals)
  • Ability to follow instructions and read basic production documentation
  • Basic computer skills

Preferred

  • Prior manufacturing or machine shop experience
  • Technical school or coursework in machining or manufacturing

 

Core Competencies

  • Attention to detail and commitment to quality
  • Ability to follow processes and instructions consistently
  • Dependability and strong work ethic
  • Basic problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work in a team environment

Additional Notes ARCH Global Precision is an Equal Opportunity Employee and wholeheartedly supports diversity in the workplace as a basic premise for business success.  All employees of ARCH Global Precision are employed on an at-will basis. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employee(s) will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.  A review of this position has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties. All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent(s) will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities.

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