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Basic Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Motive Workforce

Machine Operator

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$18 - $21.25/hr

Mechanical aptitude and the ability to make basic machine adjustments. * Ability to read and follow ... Extrusion Machine Operator * Machine Operator * Production Operator * Manufacturing Operator

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 ...

ARUNDEL MACHINE

Machine Operator

Escondido, CA

$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 ...

Marquee Staffing - CB

SMT Machine Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Troubleshoot basic machine and production issues * Identify and resolve equipment-related problems efficiently SMT Machine Operator III In addition to Operator I & II responsibilities: * Understand ...

BBSI Southern California

Machine Operator

Rialto, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Great company in Inland Empire,Ca looking for experience manufacturing machine operators Candidate ... Perform basic machine adjustments and report mechanical issues to supervisors. * Maintain a clean ...

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

Production Machine Operator at Yakult USA - 1st / 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 ...

TriCom Quest

Be Seen First

Filling 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 ...

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 · 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 ...

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All JobsBasic Machine Operator JobsBasic Machine Operator Jobs in California

Basic Machine Operator information

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$11

$17

$23

How much do basic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 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, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Machine Operator

Motive Workforce

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

$18 - $21.25/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Extrusion Machine Operator (Temp-to-Hire)


Available Shifts:

  • 1st Shift: 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
  • 2nd Shift: 3:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
  • 3rd Shift: 11:00 p.m. – 7:30 a.m.


Looking for more than just your next assignment? We're hiring an Extrusion Machine Operator for a temp-to-hire opportunity with a growing manufacturer. Choose the shift that works best for your schedule while building a path toward permanent employment.


If you have manufacturing or machine operating experience, enjoy hands-on work, and take pride in producing quality products in a safe environment, we'd love to hear from you.


What You'll Do:


As an Extrusion Machine Operator, you'll help keep production running efficiently while ensuring products meet quality standards.


Responsibilities include:

  • Set up extrusion equipment according to production work orders.
  • Perform pre-operation equipment and safety inspections.
  • Monitor machine performance and adjust operating parameters as needed.
  • Inspect materials and finished products for quality and identify defects.
  • Collect quality control samples during production.
  • Label, package, and prepare finished products according to work instructions.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
  • Follow OSHA regulations and company safety procedures.
  • Wear a respirator when performing machine setup.
  • Work collaboratively with supervisors and team members to meet daily production goals.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.


What We're Looking For:

  • High school diploma or equivalent work experience.
  • Previous manufacturing, production, or machine operator experience preferred.
  • Experience operating extrusion or other industrial production equipment is a plus.
  • Mechanical aptitude and the ability to make basic machine adjustments.
  • Ability to read and follow written and verbal work instructions.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
  • Dependable, punctual, and team-oriented.
  • Ability to wear a respirator during machine setup.


Why Join Us?

  • Temp-to-hire opportunity with the potential for long-term employment.
  • Three shifts available to fit your schedule.
  • Stable, full-time hours.
  • Clean, safety-focused manufacturing environment.
  • Supportive team culture.
  • Opportunity to learn new equipment and build your manufacturing career.


Ideal Background:


We encourage candidates with experience in the following roles to apply:

  • Extrusion Machine Operator
  • Machine Operator
  • Production Operator
  • Manufacturing Operator
  • Production Associate
  • Plastics Operator
  • Process Operator
  • Industrial Machine Operator
  • Packaging Operator
  • Assembly & Production Technician


If you're looking for a company where your work ethic, reliability, and manufacturing skills can lead to a permanent career opportunity, apply today. We'd love to meet you!

Apply