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Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Salinas, CA

SAIC

TSA On Call Data Collector

Salinas, CA · On-site

$40K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking an entry level Part time on-call Data Technician for upcoming work in ... conducting operator interviews, timing of processes/procedures, evaluating vendor/contractor ...

All JobsMachine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator JobsEntry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Salinas, CA

Entry Level Machine Operator information

See Salinas, CA salary details

$13

$18

$23

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level machine operator in Salinas, CA is $18.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $20.38 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.

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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Salinas, CA?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Salinas, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Salinas, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs in Salinas, CA are:

What cities near Salinas, CA are hiring for Entry Level Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Salinas, CA with the most Entry Level Machine Operator job openings:

Entry Level Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Machine Operator job openings in Salinas, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,029 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Equipment Engineering Technician 1

MARKI MICROWAVE LLC

Morgan Hill, CA • On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description


JOB SUMMARY

Marki Microwave Equipment Engineering Technicians are responsible for supporting production and development staff with operation, maintenance, and programming of various manufacturing equipment. This is an entry-level position. We hire for attitude and aptitude and develop the technical skills on the job.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Perform set up, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of basic production equipment including but not limited to: microscopes, hot plates, ovens, hand tools, pneumatic hoses, paint guns, soldering irons, torque wrenches, etc.
  • Track & perform preventative maintenance & calibration schedules for production, reliability, & test equipment
  • Order equipment, tooling, maintenance supplies, replacement parts etc.
  • Coordinate with repairmen and vendors for scheduling maintenance, repairs, and calibration.
  • Train machine & equipment operators on new and current processes as assigned.
  • Cross train fellow Technicians on current equipment operation, programming, & troubleshooting
  • Create operator procedures for new processes and machinery.
  • Utilize, update, and maintain 2D CAD for drawing referencing
  • Assist Machine Operators in operating production equipment & programming automation equipment for similar products
  • Assist Engineering staff in production and prototyping of products including running experiments, testing, tuning, proto building, reflow, etc.
  • Assist in equipment maintenance to help ensure upkeep of capital equipment for production and R&D
  • Perform basic electrical tests under the guidance of engineering or technician staff
  • Work with small hand tools, tweezers, and fixtures
  • Troubleshoot programming issues on automation equipment
  • Use Microsoft office to track PM schedules, create presentations, document processes, etc.
  • Communicate with cross-functional team members and management via written or verbal formats
  • Other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
  • High School Diploma or GED required, some college or technical/trade coursework is preferred
  • 0-2 years’ experience in a manufacturing, maintenance, or laboratory environment; relevant coursework, military service, or hands-on mechanical/electronics experience will be considered
  • Experience in the RF or electronics industry is a plus, but not required – we will train the right candidate
  • Strong communicator: Provides status updates without being asked, raises problems while they are still small, and documents work clearly so the next person can pick it up.
  • Highly motivated: Looks for the next task when one finishes rather than waiting to be assigned. Notices what needs doing on the floor and acts on it.
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  • Great team player: Willing to take on the unglamorous work – machine moves, setups, cleanup, covering for a teammate – and supports operators and engineers with equal willingness.
  • Go-getter: Takes ownership of an assignment, follows it through to completion, and escalates early when genuinely stuck rather than going quiet.
  • Coachable: Accepts feedback without defensiveness and applies it the next time, not the fifth time.
  • Dependable: Consistent attendance and punctuality. Meets committed PM and due dates, or renegotiates them in advance.
  • Curious: Wants to understand why a machine failed, not just how to reset it.
  • Adaptable: Adjusts to shifting priorities in a fast-paced production environment without losing momentum.
  • Safety and quality mindset: Follows procedures as written and speaks up about unsafe conditions or suspect product.


TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES
  • Comfortable using hand tooling & power tools such as; wrenches, screwdrivers, drills, vises, clamps etc.
  • Able to work with small hand tools, tweezers, and fixtures, including under a microscope
  • Can comprehend specifications, drawings, and written instructions
  • Basic MS Office proficiency for tracking PM schedules, documenting processes, and creating presentations
  • Willingness to learn preventative maintenance practices and advanced automation equipment maintenance


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience with soldering irons or soldering process
  • Experience with performing preventative maintenance on automated equipment
  • Experience with CAD/AutoCAD, Inventor/Solidworks, ability to design basic mechanical fixtures/designs using AutoCAD
  • Experience programming automation equipment through UI, code, or PLC’s
  • Experience with pneumatic tubing, fittings, & lines
  • 1-2 years experience in RF or electronics industry
CORE COMPETENCIES
  • Communication: Successful communication involves five components. Verbal communication refers to your ability to speak clearly and concisely. Nonverbal communication includes the capacity to project positive body language and facial expressions. Written communication refers to your skillfulness in composing text messages, reports, and other types of documents. Visual communication involves your ability to relay information using pictures and other visual aids. Active listening should also be considered a key communication soft skill because it helps you listen to and actually hear what others say. You need to be able to listen to understand how to best communicate with someone.
  • Teamwork: Collaborate with others to achieve common goals. Build strong, positive working relationships with supervisor and team members/coworkers. Exercise the ability to compromise and be adaptable.
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  • Integrity / Work Ethic: Deal with Conflict Properly. Report Unethical Behavior. Be upfront about your short comings. Be willing to do hard work. Take accountability for your actions. Be a team player. Respect others. Don’t abuse your power. Keep morale up.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Interpersonal competencies help you interact, communicate, and collaborate with others effectively. Typical examples of interpersonal skills include empathy, active listening, and emotional intelligence.


ABOUT MARKI MICROWAVE

Shattering Performance Barriers Since 1991.

At Marki Microwave our goal is to invent technologies to empower the RF and microwave industry to design faster, simplify production, eliminate complexity, and shatter performance barriers.

Marki Microwave is a privately-owned company based in Morgan Hill, California, 30 minutes from downtown San Jose in Southern Silicon Valley. We offer a full benefits package, including:

  • Holiday pay
  • Paid Time Off (4 weeks)
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • Long Term Disability
  • Life and AD&D Insurance
  • 401(k) ER matching
  • Employee Dependent Scholarship Plan
  • College Loan Subsidy Program

Marki Microwave is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, military or veteran status, or any other applicable federal, state or local protected classification.