1

Basic Machine Operator Jobs in Santa Clara, CA (NOW HIRING)

Laser Machine Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$41K - $58K/yr

The Laser Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining the laser ... Familiarity with SMT stencils, Gerber files, and basic PCB design concepts is a plus. * Proficient ...

Machine Operator - Saw

Fremont, CA · On-site

$22.26 - $37.84/hr

The Machine Operator will set up and operate horizontal general labor including but not limited to ... Perform basic set-ups and operate machines in more than one assigned area * Operate complex ...

Machine Operator - Saw

Fremont, CA · On-site

$22.26 - $37.84/hr

The Machine Operator will set up and operate horizontal general labor including but not limited to ... Basic understanding of related mechanics, flow control elements and MRP concepts * Visual acuity ...

Machine Operator

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Demonstrates a basic understanding of Lean Manufacturing. * Participate with the Manufacturing ... operating across North America and Asia. As a nationally and locally certified Minority Business ...

CNC Machine Operator

Fremont, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

About Us South Bay Solutions is a high-precision machine shop, making parts for semiconductor ... Basic math and writing skills. Education / Experience * Experience operating Horizontal, Vertical ...

Salary: $22 - $25 Hourly About Us South Bay Solutions is a high-precision machine shop, making ... Basic math and writing skills. Education / Experience Experience operating Horizontal, Vertical or ...

Machine Operator

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Demonstrate a basic understanding of Lean Manufacturing. * Participate with the Manufacturing ... operating across North America and Asia. As a nationally and locally certified Minority Business ...

Machine Operator

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Demonstrates a basic understanding of Lean Manufacturing. * Participate with the Manufacturing ... operating across North America and Asia. As a nationally and locally certified Minority Business ...

Showing results 21-40

Basic Machine Operator information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

$14

$21

$27

How much do basic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for basic machine operator in Santa Clara, CA is $21.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $22.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 cities near Santa Clara, CA are hiring for Basic Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Santa Clara, CA with the most Basic Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Basic Machine Operator job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,673 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Laser Machine Operator

Sierra Circuits inc.

San Jose, CA • On-site

$41K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Sierra Circuits is a Silicon Valley-based leader in printed circuit board manufacturing and assembly, specializing in high-quality, quick-turn and complex prototypes. With over 35 years of experience, Sierra provides a seamless, end-to-end PCB solution—from design and fabrication to assembly and testing—all under one roof at its state-of-the-art facilities in Sunnyvale, California. Sierra Circuits is committed to supporting engineers and designers through extensive educational resources. The company offers free online tools such as the Stackup Designer, Impedance Calculator, Material Selector, and BOM and DFM Checkers, along with technical blogs, webinars, design guides, and its SierraConnect community forum. Sierra Circuit serves all industries including aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, and telecommunications, building PCBs to the highest industry standards, and keeping innovation at the forefront of everything we do.

Summary:

The Laser Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining the laser stencil cutting system to produce high-precision SMT stencils in-house. This role involves interpreting design files, managing material flow, and ensuring accurate and timely delivery of stencils to production. The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, excellent attention to detail, and experience in laser machining or a similar precision environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Load and operate the in-house laser stencil cutting machine according to job specifications.
  • Interpret Gerber files and convert them to machine-ready formats using appropriate CAM software.
  • Set up laser parameters including power, speed, and focus for optimal stencil quality.
  • Inspect completed stencils for dimensional accuracy, burrs, and quality of cut per internal standards.
  • Clean, label, and prepare stencils for hand-off to stencil handling or SMT.
  • Perform preventative maintenance on the laser system, including lens cleaning, filter replacement, and system calibration.
  • Maintain material inventory (e.g., stainless steel sheets, frames) and request replenishment as needed.
  • Document production activities and inspection results in accordance with internal traceability requirements.
  • Work closely with engineering and quality teams to ensure stencil design and output meet customer and process needs.
  • Ensure safe operation of equipment and follow all safety and ESD protocols.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED required; technical training or certification in laser machining or CNC preferred.
  • 1+ year of experience operating a laser cutter, CNC machine, or similar equipment in a precision manufacturing environment.
  • Familiarity with SMT stencils, Gerber files, and basic PCB design concepts is a plus.
  • Proficient with computers; experience using CAD/CAM software is beneficial.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
  • Ability to lift and handle metal sheets and frames safely (up to [insert weight, e.g., 25 lbs]).
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced, detail-oriented production setting.

Work Environment:

  • Climate-controlled manufacturing area with exposure to laser equipment and fine particulates.
  • Must use PPE, including safety glasses and gloves as required.
  • Regular standing, bending, and lifting throughout the shift.


What We Offer

  • Full - Time, non-exempt position
  • Excellent benefits package includes; Medical (HMO & PPO), Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts, Basic Life/ADD, Voluntary Benefits
  • Vacation, sick and paid holidays

Salary Range Rate: $41,000 - $58,000 per year.