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Cleanroom Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Semtech

Operator 2, Production

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Wafer Fab Operator Level 1 (Op1) or Level 2 (Op2) is responsible for execution of wafer fabrication ... Cleanroom practices and contamination control * Chemical handling and safety * Wafer handling ...

Semtech

Operator 2, Production

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Wafer Fab Operator Level 1 (Op1) or Level 2 (Op2) is responsible for execution of wafer fabrication ... Cleanroom practices and contamination control * Chemical handling and safety * Wafer handling ...

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 ... May work in a cleanroom environment all or part of the shift * Maintain logs and other necessary ...

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 ... May work in a cleanroom environment all or part of the shift * Maintain logs and other necessary ...

Meissner Filtration Products

$18.25/hr

Join our team as a Molding Production Operator and play a vital role in producing high-quality ... Work Environment Filter Production is performed in an ISO Class 7 cleanroom environment. Powder ...

SaniSure LLC

Cleanroom Assembler

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

... guidelines for cleanroom procedures. * Measure, cut, position, and align tubing and small ... Adhere to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols, maintaining compliance with ...

Meissner

Molding Production Operator

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$18.25/hr

Join our team as a Molding Production Operator and play a vital role in producing high-quality ... Work Environment Filter Production is performed in an ISO Class 7 cleanroom environment. Powder ...

BEPC INC

Be Seen First

Operator I

Irvine, CA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Job Title: Operator I Location: Irvine, CA 92614 Employment Type: W2 Contract | 6 Months with ... cleanroom production, or regulated manufacturing environments. In this role, you will support the ...

ITest Inc

Semi conductor test operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

ITest Inc is looking for a skilled Semiconductor Test Operator to join our growing team in San Jose ... Follow ESD protocols, cleanroom procedures, and all safety guidelines * Collaborate with process ...

ITest Inc

Semi conductor test operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

ITest Inc is looking for a skilled Semiconductor Test Operator to join our growing team in San Jose ... Follow ESD protocols, cleanroom procedures, and all safety guidelines * Collaborate with process ...

ITest Inc

Semi conductor test operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

ITest Inc is looking for a skilled Semiconductor Test Operator to join our growing team in San Jose ... Follow ESD protocols, cleanroom procedures, and all safety guidelines * Collaborate with process ...

ATR International

Production Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24/hr

We are seeking an Operator for a very important client.  Works in a cleanroom under the general direction of a more seasoned team member  Routes questions to the appropriate person  ...

Meissner Filtration Products

$18.25 - $20.89/hr

The Production Operator - Rotomolding will assist in the production of Rotomolded parts, using ... Work Environment Filter Production is performed in an ISO Class 7 cleanroom environment. Powder ...

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All JobsCleanroom Operator JobsCleanroom Operator Jobs in California

Cleanroom Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$18

$20

How much do cleanroom operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cleanroom operator in California is $18.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cleanroom operator?

Cleanroom Operators are professionals responsible for maintaining and operating equipment within controlled, contamination-free environments known as cleanrooms. Their primary duties involve assembling, testing, and inspecting products—often in industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and electronics—while strictly adhering to cleanliness protocols to prevent contamination. They wear specialized garments, follow rigorous procedures, and monitor environmental conditions to ensure product quality and safety. Cleanroom Operators play a crucial role in ensuring that sensitive manufacturing processes meet stringent regulatory and quality standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cleanroom operator?

To thrive as a Cleanroom Operator, you need a keen attention to detail, strong understanding of contamination control, and typically a high school diploma or relevant technical training. Familiarity with cleanroom protocols, personal protective equipment (PPE), and systems for monitoring environmental conditions is essential. Reliability, strong teamwork, and the ability to follow strict procedures make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure that cleanroom standards are consistently met, protecting product quality and safety in sensitive manufacturing environments.

What are some of the common challenges cleanroom operators face during their daily tasks?

Cleanroom Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to contamination control protocols while handling delicate equipment and materials. Working in a controlled environment requires wearing specialized garments, which can be uncomfortable over long periods. Operators must remain highly focused to avoid procedural errors, as even minor mistakes can compromise product quality. Collaboration with quality control, engineering, and maintenance teams is essential to quickly resolve any technical issues and ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Cleanroom Operator vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectCleanroom OperatorManufacturing Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; GMP or cleanroom certification often preferredHigh school diploma; technical or vocational training may be required
Work EnvironmentControlled cleanroom environment with strict contamination controlsManufacturing floor, may include clean or controlled areas
Industry UsageCommon in pharmaceuticals, biotech, electronics manufacturingUsed across various manufacturing sectors including electronics, automotive, and consumer goods

Cleanroom Operators focus on maintaining contamination-free environments in industries like pharmaceuticals and biotech, following strict protocols. Manufacturing Technicians work in broader manufacturing settings, often with less emphasis on cleanroom standards. Both roles require technical skills, but Cleanroom Operators have specialized training for controlled environments.

Do cleanroom operators need to be certified?

Cleanroom operators typically do not require formal certification, but many employers prefer candidates with training in cleanroom protocols, safety procedures, and good manufacturing practices. Certification programs in cleanroom technology or related fields can enhance job prospects and demonstrate competence in maintaining contamination control standards.

What does a cleanroom operator do?

A cleanroom operator is responsible for maintaining and monitoring controlled environments to ensure cleanliness and compliance with safety standards. They typically perform tasks such as operating specialized equipment, following strict protocols, and recording data to prevent contamination in industries like pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, or biotechnology.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Cleanroom Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cleanroom Operator job openings:

Cleanroom Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cleanroom Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,133 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Operator 2, Production

Semtech

Alhambra, CA • On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Location: Alhambra, CA
Position Summary: Wafer Fab Operator Level 1 (Op1) or Level 2 (Op2) is responsible for execution of wafer fabrication processes in an InP-based photonics manufacturing environment. This role supports the production of lasers, gain chips, and other III-V photonic devices by operating advanced semiconductor equipment, maintaining process control, and ensuring high-quality wafer output.
The operator position works with moderate supervision and contributes to process consistency, WIP flow, and yield protection by minimizing contamination, handling damage, and process deviations.
Responsibilities:
Wafer Processing & Equipment Operation (50%):
  • Perform routine wafer fabrication steps following SOPs:
    • Wet cleaning and chemical processing (acid/base handling)
    • Photoresist coating (spin coating, soft bake)
    • Thin film deposition and dry etch (PECVD, RIE)
  • Load/unload wafers into process tools and carriers
  • Ensure correct recipe selection and lot processing sequence
  • Follow process travelers and MES instructions precisely
  • Execute process steps according to SOPs and process recipes
  • Perform wafer handling with high care to prevent damage or contamination

Wafer Inspection, Process Monitoring & Quality Control (30%):
  • Monitor critical process parameters (temperature, pressure, gas flow, alignment accuracy)
  • Perform in-process inspections:
    • Optical microscope inspection
    • Film thickness/index/stress measurement (profilometer/ellipsometer/flexus)
  • Identify abnormal conditions and deviations from process specs
  • Escalate issues to Op3 or Technician as needed

Data Recording & Documentation (10%):
  • Record process data, tool usage, and lot completion in logs or MES
  • Document deviations or abnormalities during processing
  • Ensure traceability of all processed wafers

Continuous Improvement & Engineering Support (10%):
  • Assist in engineering runs, DOE experiments, and process qualifications
  • Provide feedback on process issues and yield trends
  • Support implementation of process improvements

Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent (required)
  • Associate degree in electronics or related field (preferred)
  • For Op1 , 0-1 year experience in semiconductor wafer fab or cleanroom manufacturing environment (preferred but not required)
  • For Op2, 2-3 years of experience in cleanroom environment for semiconductor wafer fabrication (III-V or photonics preferred)

Minimum Qualifications
  • Technical Skills
    • Basic understanding of:
      • Cleanroom practices and contamination control
      • Chemical handling and safety
      • Wafer handling techniques
    • Ability to follow detailed SOPs and process instructions
  • Behavioral Competencies
    • Strong attention to detail and discipline
    • Ability to follow instructions with high accuracy
    • Good teamwork and communication skills
    • Willingness to learn semiconductor and photonics processes
  • Physical & Work Environment Requirements
    • Ability to work in a cleanroom environment for extended periods
    • Standing for long durations and performing repetitive tasks
    • Handling small, fragile wafers with precision
    • Ability to wear full cleanroom gown (including mask, gloves, and suit)
  • Additional Requirements
    • Willingness to work shifts (day/night if required)
    • Compliance with all safety and operational procedures

The intent of this job description is to describe the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically included in this description.
All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
A reasonable estimate of the pay range for this position is $24 - $30. There are several factors taken into consideration in determining base salary, including but not limited to: job-related qualifications, skills, education and experience, as well as job location and the value of other elements of an employee's total compensation package.
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