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Bending Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator I

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

A Manufacturing Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines ... Set up, operate, and tend equipment such as bending, deburring, cutting, packaging, test equipment.

Machine Operator

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Machine Operator Architectural Products Group Gilroy, California, United States Job ID: 525294 ... Physical requirements include lifting up to 75 lbs., extended standing, walking, sitting, bending ...

Machine Operator

San Martin, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Machine Operator Architectural Products Group San Martin, California, United States Job ID: 527212 ... Physical requirements include lifting up to 75 lbs., extended standing, walking, sitting, bending ...

Dish Machine Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Diner Dish Machine Operator Summary: * At Black Bear Diners, we have been serving Good Old ... Bending, squatting, stooping for cleaning activities throughout the shift. * Climbing on step ...

Machine Operator I

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$20.16 - $21.28/hr

Machine Operator I Location: Prairie, Chatsworth Schedule: 1st Shift Company Summary At Vytalogy ... of arms, bending, and kneeling, if needed * Ability to be exposed to nutraceutical raw materials ...

Capsule Machine Operator - Livermore

Livermore, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 50 lbs. * Ability to use hands for operating and adjusting machinery. * May be required to operate a hand truck, pallet jack, or ...

Machine Operator

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Perform additional duties as assigned by the Plant Manager, Supervisor, and Lead Machine Operator ... Physical requirements include lifting up to 75 lbs., extended standing, walking, sitting, bending ...

Machine Operator

San Martin, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Perform additional duties as assigned by the Plant Manager, Supervisor, and Lead Machine Operator ... Physical requirements include lifting up to 75 lbs., extended standing, walking, sitting, bending ...

Machine Operator I

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$19.10 - $20.16/hr

Machine Operator I Location: Prairie, Chatsworth Schedule: 1st Shift Company Summary At Vytalogy ... of arms, bending, and kneeling, if needed * Ability to be exposed to nutraceutical raw materials ...

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 ... Regular standing, bending, and lifting throughout the shift. What We Offer * Full - Time, non ...

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 ... Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, may climb stairs and use ladders. * Comfortable working in a ...

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 ... Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, may climb stairs and use ladders. * Comfortable working in a ...

Showing results 21-40

Bending Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do bending machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for bending 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 bending machine operator?

Bending Machine Operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain machines that bend metal or other materials into specific shapes. They read blueprints or specifications to determine the required dimensions and angles, adjust machine settings, and inspect finished products for quality. Their work is essential in industries like manufacturing, construction, and automotive, where precise metal components are needed. Good attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and safety awareness are important qualities for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bending machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bending Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with metalworking or manufacturing processes, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machinery, blueprint reading, and safety protocols is typically required, and some employers value certifications like OSHA safety training. Strong problem-solving skills, manual dexterity, and the ability to work well in a team are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure precise fabrication, minimize errors, and support a safe, efficient production environment.

What are some common challenges a bending machine operator faces when working with different materials?

Bending Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as material springback, cracking, or inconsistent bends when working with various metals or sheet materials. Each material type—like aluminum, steel, or copper—responds differently to bending forces, requiring adjustments to machine settings and tooling. Operators must also carefully interpret technical drawings and maintain close communication with supervisors and quality control teams to ensure specifications are met. Staying attentive to machine maintenance and safety procedures is crucial for producing accurate parts and preventing equipment downtime.

What is the difference between Bending Machine Operator vs Metal Fabricator?

AspectBending Machine OperatorMetal Fabricator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in machine operationHigh school diploma, technical training or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, machine shopsWorkshops, factories, construction sites
Employer & IndustryManufacturing, metalworking industriesConstruction, manufacturing, custom metalwork
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that a Bending Machine Operator specializes in operating machines to bend metal sheets and rods, focusing on precision and machine setup. A Metal Fabricator has a broader role, including cutting, welding, assembling, and finishing metal parts. While both roles work in metalworking industries and may share similar credentials, the Bending Machine Operator's work is more machine-specific, whereas the Metal Fabricator's tasks are more varied and hands-on.

What are popular job titles related to Bending Machine Operator jobs in California?

For Bending Machine Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bending Machine Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Bending Machine Operator jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Bending Machine Operator job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Machine Operator I

Oceanside, CA • On-site

MagnaFlow
501 - 1,000 employees

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Who are we: 

Magnaflow is a leading manufacturer and supplier based in Oceanside, CA of premium products to the automotive aftermarket industry such as catalytic converters, performance exhaust and replacement exhaust. Through the Camburg division in Huntington Beach, CA. Magnaflow also supplies race-inspired performance suspension products and vehicle uplifting services, Magnaflow is focused on future growth through both new business development and new product introduction. Our websites are www.magnaflow.com and www.camburg.com.

Salary Range: 

$20-$24/hr

*Final agreed upon compensation will be based on a variety of factors including but not limited to an individual’s related experience, education, certifications, skills, and work location.

What you will be doing: 

Manufacturing Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines used in the production process. They ensure that machinery runs smoothly, produces quality products, and operates efficiently while adhering to safety and quality standards.

Responsibilities:

  • All employees are required to perform their job with safety as the main priority for themselves and their coworkers. 

  • Set up, operate, and tend equipment such as bending, deburring, cutting, packaging, test equipment. 

  • Perform minor changeovers, setting adjustments, and troubleshooting.  

  • Ensures the accuracy of products being produced by using an approved measurement device prior to releasing to next production steps. 

  • Requires ability to properly care, and maintain all the specific machines being operated, such as cleaning of the machine.  

  • Product count when applicable, product documentation and properly identifying contents. 

  • Maintains a clean, safe work environment and compliance with 5S.

  • Double check quantities of parts produced for accuracy. 

  • Able to adjust to new methods of automation which require nonconventional practices with regards to manufacturing. 

  • Inspect parts produced to the company’s quality standards, and fitment to approved measurement devices. 

  • Perform other duties as required.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (some positions may require vocational training or technical certifications in machine operation).

  • Previous experience as a machine operator or in a manufacturing environment is typically preferred but may not be required.

  • On-the-job training may be provided.

  • A minimum of 1 year working in a manufacturing environment preferred.

What you need:

  • This position requires a basic knowledge of OSHA safety regulations.

  • Ability to read drawings and other manufacturing documents is desired.

  • Attention to detail

  • Must be able to lift to 50 lbs. Any lifting over 50 lbs. is to be lifted with the assistance of other individuals

  • Requires prolonged standing of up to 8 hours at a time.

  • Close and general vision

  • Good hand eye coordination

  • This position requires reaching above and below the shoulders.

  • Must be able to work on feet all day, climb stairs occasionally, and lift 50 pounds with or without accommodations.

What's in it for you?

  • Competitive Salary

  • PTO, Sick Pay, Birthday Holiday, Paid Holidays

  • Medical, Dental, Vision

  • 401k Matching (Up to 5%)

  • Education assistance

  • Company sponsored events

  • Growing department and team

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