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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

Great Hire

Entry Level Machine Operator

Anaheim, CA

$20 - $50/hr

Multiple skill levels are welcome - from entrylevel operators to senior machinists. Pay Range: $20-$50/hr depending on role & experience (EntryLevel Operator Senior Machinist) Responsibilities ...

Great Hire

Entry Level CNC Machinist

Buena Park, CA

$20 - $50/hr

Multiple skill levels are welcome - from entrylevel operators to senior machinists. Pay Range: $20-$50/hr depending on role & experience (EntryLevel Operator Senior Machinist) Responsibilities ...

Maersk

Warehouse Associate

Chino, CA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

The Frontline career stream covers people in skilled or entry-level operator jobs often providing services directly for the benefit of our customers e.g. transporting and loading/unloading cargo ...

Maersk

Warehouse Associate

Chino, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

The Frontline career stream covers people in skilled or entry-level operator jobs often providing services directly for the benefit of our customers e.g. transporting and loading/unloading cargo ...

A.P. Møller - Maersk A/S

Warehouse Associate

Chino, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

The Frontline career stream covers people in skilled or entry-level operator jobs often providing services directly for the benefit of our customers e.g. transporting and loading/unloading cargo ...

Express Employment Professionals

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Machine Operator

Claremont, CA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Entry-Level Machine Operator - 1st Shift Express Employment Professionals is currently seeking a dependable and motivated Entry-Level Machine Operator for a 1st Shift opportunity in Claremont, CA.

ISTAFF SOLUTIONS INC

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Slitter Operator

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

The Slitter Operator plays a crucial role in manufacturing by managing the slitting process of ... * Entry-level experience in manufacturing operations

New

AnDek Staffing Services

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Production Machine Operator

Orange, CA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

The Production Machine Operator plays a critical role within a small team of 1-5 operators ... Collaborate effectively within a small team environment Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level ...

LIFEBLOOM Corp.

Encapsulation Machine Operator

Brea, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Encapsulation Machine Operator (Entry Level). Basic As an Encapsulation Machine Operator, you will be responsible for setting up and operating an encapsulation machine. You will also be responsible ...

Great Hire Staffing

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Entry Level Machine Operator (Will train), JOBID: ZR_2606_JOB,

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$20 - $50/hr

... * Entry Level candidates: Do you like working with your hands and making something from scratch? This may be the job for you * Experience operating CNC mills, lathes, or machining centers * Ability ...

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Operates and monitors a variety of water supply and ...

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 become an operator if you show the interest and work ethic. This position is a Monday thru Friday 6 ...

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All JobsOperator JobsEntry Level Operator JobsEntry Level Operator Jobs in Irvine, CA

Entry Level Operator information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$13

$18

$23

How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Irvine, CA is $18.75, 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 operator?

Entry level operators are employees who typically work in manufacturing, production, or industrial settings and are responsible for running machinery, monitoring equipment, and ensuring products meet quality standards. They are usually new to the field and receive on-the-job training to learn how to operate specific machines or processes. Their duties may include starting and stopping equipment, doing basic maintenance, reporting malfunctions, and keeping work areas clean and safe. Entry level operators play a key role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn safety and operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial machinery, control systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are often required or highly valued. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations in manufacturing or industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level operators and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Operators often face challenges such as mastering complex machinery, adapting to shift work, and maintaining consistent productivity in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions, and seek guidance from experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and being proactive about safety procedures can also help new operators quickly become effective and confident in their roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectEntry Level OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing lines, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles across manufacturing and industrial sectorsOperational roles in manufacturing, processing, and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Operator and a Machine Operator lies in their experience and specialization. Entry Level Operators typically have basic training and perform general operational tasks, while Machine Operators often have specific technical skills and certifications to handle particular machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and share similar work settings, but Machine Operators usually require more technical expertise.

How to become an entry level operator with no experience?

To become an entry level operator with no experience, focus on gaining basic technical skills through online courses or vocational training, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training if applicable. Many employers also consider candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and provide on-the-job training to develop necessary skills.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,993 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Entry Level Machine Operator

Great Hire

Anaheim, CA

$20 - $50/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Hiring Multiple CNC Roles | Precision Aerospace Manufacturing We are seeking skilled CNC professionals to support the production of highprecision aerospace components. We operate an AS9100certified facility and manufacture tighttolerance parts for aviation and defense programs. Multiple skill levels are welcome - from entrylevel operators to senior machinists.

Pay Range: $20-$50/hr depending on role & experience (EntryLevel Operator Senior Machinist) Responsibilities Operate CNC mills, lathes, or machining centers (VMC, turning, or multiaxis depending on experience) Perform setups, tool changes, offsets, and basic machine adjustments Read and interpret aerospace blueprints and technical drawings Inspect parts using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and other precision tools Maintain tight tolerances (commonly 0.001") Work with aerospace materials such as aluminum, titanium, and stainless steel Document production and inspection results per AS9100 requirements Follow all safety, quality, and process control procedures Support production flow and maintain a clean, organized work area Requirements Requirements Entry Level candidates: Do you like working with your hands and making something from scratch. This may be the job for you Experience operating CNC mills, lathes, or machining centers Ability to read aerospace blueprints and follow detailed instructions Skilled with precision measurement tools Familiarity with tighttolerance machining Understanding of AS9100 or similar aerospace quality standards Ability to stand for extended periods and lift 30-50 lbs Strong attention to detail, reliability, and quality focus Compliance Requirements Must be able to complete I9 employment verification Must meet ITAR requirements (U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident)

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About Great Hire

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Based in Orange County CA, Great Hire is a Full Service Temporary Staffing Services Provider and Direct Hire Recruiting firm that prides itself on personal attention at an affordable price. With a presence in Orange County, Los Angeles, Anaheim, La Mirada, Panorama City, Simi Valley, Ontario, Temecula, Riverside & San Bernardino we are in the sweet spot in our Industry. We are large enough to properly service any sized Company, but small enough to be unconstrained by pure volume considerations.

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Irvine, CA, US

Year founded

2011

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