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Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ganahl Lumber Co

Machine Operator - Anaheim

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$17 - $28/hr

MILLMAN Our Mill Departments are looking to fill Entry Level Mill positions. We will train you to ... Machine knowledge for both hand tools to industrial power tools. * Lumber knowledge for both ...

Ganahl Lumber Co

Machine Operator - Torrance

Torrance, CA · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

MILLMAN Our Mill Departments are looking to fill Entry Level Mill positions. We will train you to ... Machine knowledge for both hand tools to industrial power tools. * Lumber knowledge for both ...

Team 360 Staffing

Be Seen First

Operator Trainee

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

This position supports machine operators with daily production tasks, machine preparation, material handling, and maintaining a safe and clean work environment. Schedule: Monday through Friday, Day ...

Blue Diamond Growers

RTE Operator - Entry

Turlock, CA

$32/hr

Knowledge of machine operations and mechanical aptitude to keep machinery and equipment operating optimally and effectively. * Must have excellent communication skills. * Must be able to work under ...

Blue Diamond Growers

RTE Operator - Entry

Turlock, CA · On-site

$32/hr

Knowledge of machine operations and mechanical aptitude to keep machinery and equipment operating optimally and effectively. * Must have excellent communication skills. * Must be able to work under ...

Blue Diamond Growers

RTE Operator - Entry

Turlock, CA

$32/hr

Knowledge of machine operations and mechanical aptitude to keep machinery and equipment operating optimally and effectively. * Must have excellent communication skills. * Must be able to work under ...

Blue Diamond Growers

RTE Operator - Entry

Turlock, CA · On-site

$32/hr

Knowledge of machine operations and mechanical aptitude to keep machinery and equipment operating optimally and effectively. * Must have excellent communication skills. * Must be able to work under ...

Novolex

Operator Specialist

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Performs highly diversified duties to install and maintain all production machines and plant facility's mechanical equipment. * Detects and diagnoses mechanical failures, including pneumatic and ...

Novolex

Operator Specialist

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Performs highly diversified duties to install and maintain all production machines and plant facility's mechanical equipment. * Detects and diagnoses mechanical failures, including pneumatic and ...

Novolex

Operator Specialist

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Performs highly diversified duties to install and maintain all production machines and plant facility's mechanical equipment. * Detects and diagnoses mechanical failures, including pneumatic and ...

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Entry Level Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do entry level machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level machine operator in California is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level machine operator?

An Entry Level Machine Operator is responsible for running and monitoring machinery in a manufacturing or production setting. They ensure machines operate efficiently, perform basic maintenance, and inspect products for quality. Training is typically provided on-site, and the role requires attention to detail and the ability to follow safety guidelines. This position is ideal for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in a technical or industrial field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level machine operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Machine Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes basic computer or measurement tools, such as calipers, is often required. Strong work ethic, reliability, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help you adapt and excel in fast-paced environments. These skills ensure the operator can safely and efficiently produce quality products while minimizing downtime or errors.

What does a typical workday look like for an entry level machine operator?

A typical day for an entry level machine operator involves setting up and monitoring machines, inspecting products for quality, and troubleshooting minor issues that may arise during production. You’ll likely work alongside a team of operators and supervisors, following established schedules and safety procedures to ensure smooth operations on the manufacturing floor. Collaboration is often necessary for resolving problems or improving workflow, and you may be cross-trained on different equipment over time. This hands-on experience provides a strong foundation for future advancement into specialized or supervisory roles.

How to become an entry level machine operator with no experience?

To become an entry-level machine operator, focus on gaining basic technical skills, such as understanding machinery and safety procedures. Completing a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, and some employers offer on-the-job training or certification programs to develop necessary skills.

How to get started as an entry level machine operator?

To start as an entry-level machine operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and gain basic technical skills. Many employers provide on-the-job training, but having familiarity with machinery, safety procedures, and basic math can be beneficial. Certifications in equipment operation or safety standards can improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Machine Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in CA?

For Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Entry Level Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Machine 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 $35,851 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Machine Operator - Anaheim

Ganahl Lumber Co

Anaheim, CA • On-site

$17 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Ganahl Lumber rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

MILLMAN
Our Mill Departments are looking to fill Entry Level Mill positions. We will train you to become an operator if you show the interest and work ethic. This position is a Monday thru Friday 6:00 am to 2:30 pm work schedule. There is a possibility to work overtime to meet the needs of the business. Come learn from a great team!
Duties/ Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Verify customer and order information for correctness, checking it against previously obtained information as necessary.
  • Receive and respond to customer orders as required.
  • Inspect outgoing orders for completeness.
  • Ability to meet the daily schedules on order completion.
  • Machine knowledge for both hand tools to industrial power tools.
  • Lumber knowledge for both softwoods and hardwood species.
  • Maintain a safe and clean work environment.
  • Maintain proficiency in all organizational safe working policies and practices.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

This job description is not an exhaustive list of all functions that the employee may be required to perform, and the employee may be required to perform additional functions. Additionally, Ganahl Lumber Company reserves the right to revise the job description at any time. All active employees must be able to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the position and that, if requested, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. Your employment with Ganahl Lumber Company is at will. Nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way, the at-will employment status of the Ganahl Lumber Company employees.

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