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Box Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20.15 - $29.45/hr

Operate metal burning machine with gas and or laser equipment to maintain optimal machine uptime ... Open * Note: To change the language on screen please select a language from the dropdown box

Sizer Operator (AM Shift)

Reedley, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.50/hr

Communicate with Sticker Operator to ensure proper stickers are ready for packing production ... Communicates with Packaging Department Lead to ensure proper box material needed * Maintains ...

Sizer Operator (AM Shift)

Kerman, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.50/hr

Communicate with Sticker Operator to ensure proper stickers are ready for packing production ... Communicates with Packaging Department Lead to ensure proper box material needed * Maintains ...

Production Operator Lead

La Mirada, CA

$17 - $20.50/hr

... box correctly. • Fill glue pot's as necessary. • Clear your machine of all products at end of ... other operators for lunch breaks. • Keep work area clean at all times. • Other duties as ...

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Sorter

Lodi, CA · On-site

$18/hr

... machine operators and ensuring quality standards are maintained throughout the production process ... We are among the regional leaders in customer service, talent placement, and out-of-the-box ...

Production Operator Lead

La Mirada, CA

$17 - $20.50/hr

... box correctly. • Fill glue pot's as necessary. • Clear your machine of all products at end of ... other operators for lunch breaks. • Keep work area clean at all times. • Other duties as ...

Production Operator Lead

La Mirada, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

... box correctly. • Fill glue pot's as necessary. • Clear your machine of all products at end of ... other operators for lunch breaks. • Keep work area clean at all times. • Other duties as ...

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Box Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$17

$21

How much do box machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for box machine operator in California is $17.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Box Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Box Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial packaging machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes forklift certification are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators address equipment issues and coordinate with colleagues. These skills ensure efficient production, minimize downtime, and maintain workplace safety and product quality.

What is the difference between Box Machine Operator vs Carton Assembler?

AspectBox Machine OperatorCarton Assembler
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training on machineryHigh school diploma, basic assembly skills
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plant, operating machineryPackaging line, assembling cartons manually or semi-automatically
Industry UsagePackaging, shipping, manufacturingPackaging, shipping, manufacturing

The Box Machine Operator and Carton Assembler roles both work within manufacturing and packaging industries, often in similar environments. The main difference lies in the focus: the Box Machine Operator primarily handles machinery to produce boxes, while the Carton Assembler focuses on manually or semi-automatically assembling cartons. Both roles require basic technical skills and are essential for efficient packaging operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Box Machine Operators, and how are they typically addressed?

Box Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as machine jams, material inconsistencies, and maintaining production speed while ensuring quality. To address these issues, operators are trained to perform routine equipment checks, quickly resolve minor malfunctions, and communicate with maintenance teams for more complex repairs. Additionally, operators work closely with quality control and other production staff to ensure output meets company standards, making strong teamwork and attention to detail essential.

What are Box Machine Operators?

Box Machine Operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that produce boxes, cartons, or other types of packaging. They ensure the machinery runs smoothly, monitor quality, and make adjustments as needed to meet production standards. Box Machine Operators may also handle basic troubleshooting and perform routine maintenance to minimize downtime. Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are crucial in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Box Machine Operator jobs in CA? For Box Machine Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Box Machine Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 6% Temporary, and 12% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,872 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Equipment Operator

$20.15 - $29.45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Farwest Steel rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Hello prospective employee, we appreciate you taking the time to learn about Farwest and this Equipment Operator position in Stockton, CA!
About Farwest:
Farwest Steel Corporation has been the preeminent metal solutions choice within the greater Western United States since 1956. Farwest's products and services offer customers the ability to consolidate many suppliers into one effective solution. We have over 600 employees located in 7 Western States.
As a company, Farwest strives to offer our employees a safe, innovative, creative, fun, diverse and team-based atmosphere that supports our vision: to be the preeminent metal solutions provider in the Western United States. Our goal is to create a performance-based culture staffed with highly motivated and satisfied employees
Benefits:
  • Benefits include: Medical, Dental, Vision, EAP, company paid Life Insurance & STD, and 401K with 3.5% Match
  • We offer full benefits with options to suit everyone
  • Incentive based on safety, up to .60 cents
  • Tuition reimbursement and career development opportunities
  • Compensation will be based on knowledge, skills, and ability

About this position:
As a condition of employment, all applicants are required to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check. Farwest adheres to federal regulations in regard to drug-testing, which includes THC.Pre-employment drug screen and background check must be completed, post offer of employment. Farwest participates in E-Verify and we confirm each candidate's eligibility to legally work in the US.
Job Type: Full Time, Onsite
Schedule: Monday - Friday, Swing Shift
Starting Wage: $20.15 - $29.45, depending on experience, plus shift $1.25 an hour differential.
Key Responsibilities for this role include:
  • Operate metal burning machine with gas and or laser equipment to maintain optimal machine uptime and part quality.
  • Communicate effectively with crane operators, machine operators, and parts processors to streamline production and reduce downtime.
  • Review and verify batch tickets, work instructions, material specifications, part numbers, revisions, thickness, and grade before cutting.
  • Verify heat numbers against certifications and follow proper documentation procedures.
  • Perform first article inspections to confirm correct thickness, measurements, and cut quality.
  • Properly mark remnants for restocking, including color code, heat number, thickness, and REM number.
  • Monitor operations with a focus on reducing cost: minimize material waste, maximize machine time, and ensure proper equipment usage.
  • Enforce and adhere to all company safety protocols and industry standards.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent optional.
  • At least one (1) year of steel saw cutting machine experience.
  • Basic understanding of warehouse functions and equipment operation.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, orally and writing in English.
  • Ability to work in a team environment with others in our company and treat our employees and customers with respect, courtesy and tact
  • Perform routine office support, understand written and oral instruction, and make mathematical calculations.

Farwest is an Equal Opportunity Employer & Drug Free Workplace. Join a growing, dynamic company with operations across the western US! Learn more at www.farweststeel.com/careers
Click "Apply Now" to submit your job application.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit
Farwest Steel Corporation & Affiliates participate in the Work Opportunity Tax Credit program. ADP Tax Credits administers this program on our behalf. It is vital that you follow the steps listed below in order for the tax credits to be processed. We appreciate your cooperation.
Questionnaire Instructions
  • Open https://tcs.adp.com/screen/index.html?cc=farweststeel
  • Note: To change the language on screen please select a language from the dropdown box
  • Click on Continue to begin
  • Please answer each question
  • Eligible candidates will be asked to Click Finish and Electronically Sign to complete the interview.
  • Ineligible candidates will be asked to click Continue to finish the interview. You will not be asked to electronically sign.

*ADP will contact WOTC-eligible new hires via email or text to request proof of age or address documentation, when needed.

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