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Cnc Set Up Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

LIGHTHOUSE PACKAGING

Set Up Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

Stage necessary materials for off shifts to set up equipment. * Perform general housekeeping around work area. * Perform minor machine maintenance as needed. * Comply with OSHA Safety and Health ...

Ducommun

CNC Programmer II/Set Up Operator

Carson, CA · On-site

$27.75 - $38/hr

CNC Programmer II/ Set Up Operator Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply store during the California Gold Rush and eventually ...

Amratec Engineering

Be Seen First

CNC Mill Set-Up Machinist

Torrance, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Small, fast paced and busy aerospace machine shop looking for qualified professional CNC Set-up Machinists for both first and second shifts. We manufacture complex parts and assemblies for the ...

Ducommun

CNC Programmer II/Set Up Operator

Carson, CA · On-site

$27.75 - $38/hr

CNC Programmer II/ Set Up Operator Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply store during the California Gold Rush and eventually ...

VOLT

CNC Set-Up Technician

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

We are looking for CNC Machine Set-up Technician Temp to Perm person. Pay rate is $25-$30 based on experience. Job Duties Assist the machine shop manager and programmers in setting up and running ...

M K PRODUCTS INC

Set-Up CNC/Machine Operator

Irvine, CA

$22 - $25/hr

Job includes but is not limited to setting up CNC Mill machines, operating machines, misc. shop duties, etc. *Minimum of 1+ years experience setting up Haas Mill machines. *Must know how to read blue ...

Ducommun, Inc.

CNC Programmer II/Set Up Operator

Carson, CA · On-site

$27.75 - $37.75/hr

CNC Programmer II/ Set Up Operator Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply store during the California Gold Rush and eventually ...

Ducommun

CNC Programmer II/Set Up Operator

Carson, CA · On-site

$33 - $37/hr

CNC Programmer II/ Set Up Operator Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply store during the California Gold Rush and eventually ...

Ducommun

CNC Programmer II/Set Up Operator

Carson, CA

$33 - $37/hr

CNC Programmer II/ Set Up Operator Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply store during the California Gold Rush and eventually ...

Ducommun

CNC Programmer II/Set Up Operator

Carson, CA · On-site

$33 - $37/hr

CNC Programmer II/ Set Up Operator Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply store during the California Gold Rush and eventually ...

Amratec Engineering

Be Seen First

CNC O.D. Grinder Set-up/Operator

Torrance, CA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Busy Aerospace Machine Shop looking for CNC O.D. Grinding SET-UP/OPERATOR to run Studer equipment. Must be reliable, detail oriented. Must be able to work independently including programming using ...

VOLT

2nd Shift CNC Lathe Set-Up

San Diego, CA · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Support the training of junior machinists or machine operators. This is a full-time, direct-hire opportunity. The ideal candidate will have: * 5+ years of CNC machining and set up experience in a job ...

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Cnc Set Up Operator information

See California salary details

$13

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$31

How much do cnc set up operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc set up operator in California is $22.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $25.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CNC set up operator?

CNC Set Up Operators are skilled technicians responsible for setting up, adjusting, and preparing Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines for production runs. They read blueprints or technical drawings, install and align tools or fixtures, load materials, and program or input the correct settings into the CNC equipment. Their work ensures that the machines operate accurately and efficiently to produce precision parts or components according to specifications. They may also perform test runs, make necessary adjustments, and troubleshoot issues to maintain product quality and machine performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CNC set up operator?

To thrive as a CNC Set Up Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, blueprint reading skills, and experience with CNC machinery, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with G-code, CAD/CAM software, precision measuring tools, and machine calibration is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are vital soft skills for minimizing errors and ensuring safety. These competencies enable efficient machine operation, high-quality output, and smooth production workflows in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges a CNC set up operator might face during machine changeovers?

CNC Set Up Operators often encounter challenges during machine changeovers, such as ensuring precise calibration, interpreting complex blueprints, and troubleshooting unexpected equipment issues. Tight production schedules can add pressure, making efficiency and attention to detail crucial. Successful operators rely on strong problem-solving skills and clear communication with team members to minimize downtime and maintain product quality. Ongoing training and experience help operators become more adept at swiftly handling these challenges.

What is the difference between Cnc Set Up Operator vs Cnc Machinist?

AspectCnc Set Up OperatorCnc Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in CNC programmingHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in CNC programming
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, machine shops, production floorsManufacturing plants, machine shops, production floors
Job FocusPreparing and setting up CNC machines for production runsOperating, adjusting, and maintaining CNC machines during production

Both roles require similar certifications and work in manufacturing environments. The main difference is that Cnc Set Up Operators focus on preparing and setting up machines, while Cnc Machinists operate and adjust machines during production. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right role aligned with their skills and career goals.

How much do CNC set up operators earn?

CNC setup operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and proficiency in CNC programming and machine operation tend to earn higher wages.

Where do CNC Set Up Operators make the most money?

CNC Set Up Operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with a strong manufacturing industry, advanced aerospace, or automotive sectors, and in areas with a high cost of living. States or areas with a focus on precision machining and manufacturing innovation often offer higher pay due to demand for skilled operators and certifications such as CNC programming or tooling knowledge.

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What cities in California are hiring for Cnc Set Up Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cnc Set Up Operator job openings:

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Cnc Set Up Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cnc Set Up Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,407 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Set Up Operator

LIGHTHOUSE PACKAGING

Corona, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Description:

FirmaPak, Your Packaging Friend, is a rapidly growing packaging manufacturer committed to helping our customers succeed with high-quality, reliable, and customizable packaging solutions.

At FirmaPak, we are committed to providing a meaningful experience for all our team members. We invest in our people and our company, combining the best of a large organization with extensive resources and a business rooted in family values. Our strong culture fosters an environment that promotes growth — for our people, for our customers, and for our company.  


SUMMARY: Responsible for setting up assigned equipment using established procedures. Maintain a proper and repeatable process using quality standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Remove and put tool away in proper location

• Clean machine and auxiliary equipment used in last run. Document all cleaning.

• Put away all equipment in designated locations that is no longer needed.

• Install new tool using established procedures.

• Stage necessary materials for off shifts to set up equipment.

• Perform general housekeeping around work area.

• Perform minor machine maintenance as needed.

• Comply with OSHA Safety and Health regulations

• Maintain a clean and orderly work area

• Performs other related duties and assignments as required.


Requirements:

 REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to stand, walk, stoop, bend and lift up to 65 pounds for long periods of time.

• Can involve a dirty, greasy, noisy environment.

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time

• Attention to detail

• Ability to read and comprehend work instructions, engineering drawings and company policies.

• Ability to perform simple math problems such as weight conversion, multiplication and division.

• Good communication skills- Bilingual Spanish/English required

• Effective inter-personal skills

• Be a team player

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Requires the completion of high school or a GED certificate.

• Additional mechanical training; exposure to mechanical equipment.