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Fingerprint Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Crematory Operator

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$27 - $29/hr

NorthStar Memorial Group is seeking a Crematory Operator to join our team at Chapel of the Chimes ... Ability to complete all required fingerprinting and criminal background checks * Must submit ...

Equipment Operator

Pala, CA ยท On-site

$33/hr

Equipment Operator Department/Division: Pala Raceway Status: Hourly/DOE (Full-time) $33.00 per hr ... Must be able to pass a Fingerprint-based background check of potential employees, volunteers, and ...

Equipment Operator

Pala, CA ยท On-site

$33/hr

Equipment Operator Department/Division: Pala Raceway Status: Hourly/DOE (Full-time) $33.00 per hr ... Must be able to pass a Fingerprint-based background check of potential employees, volunteers, and ...

Surveillance Operator

Hawaiian Gardens, CA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Clear fingerprinting/background check. * We are Zero-Tolerance drug and alcohol company. Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to ...

Water Operator I

Klamath, CA ยท On-site

$23.48 - $35.50/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Under the direct supervision of the Chief Water Operator, works to assist with the ... investigation and fingerprint clearance. 6. Position could require travel and occasional work ...

Operating and monitoring pumping plants and wells to regulate water flow between reservoirs. Using ... The background check will include fingerprinting, verified by the State of California Department of ...

Water Operator I

Klamath, CA ยท On-site

$23.48 - $35.50/hr

... supervision of the Chief Water Operator, works to assist with the control, operation, and ... investigation and fingerprint clearance. 6. Position could require travel and occasional work ...

Survey Instrument Operator

Fremont, CA ยท On-site

$98K - $120K/yr

... checks, fingerprint check for criminal history, pre-employment medical exam and other related ... Setting up, operating, cleaning, adjusting, and maintaining survey instruments and equipment ...

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Fingerprint Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$24

$34

How much do fingerprint operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for fingerprint operator in California is $24.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $29.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fingerprint operator?

Fingerprint operators are professionals who collect, process, and analyze fingerprints for identification and verification purposes. They often work in law enforcement agencies, government offices, or private companies, capturing fingerprints from individuals using ink or electronic scanning devices. Their duties include ensuring the quality of prints, maintaining accurate records, and sometimes assisting with background checks and investigations. Proper training and attention to detail are essential, as fingerprints are critical for security and legal processes.

What does a fingerprint operator do?

A fingerprint operator, also known as a fingerprint technician, records fingerprints for law enforcement, legal, or identification purposes. In this job, your duties include scanning fingerprints using specialized image-making equipment. Some employers also expect fingerprint operators to be able to take fingerprints manually using ink. Once you have the imprint, you may utilize software to analyze and compare both analog and digital fingerprint records. Law enforcement officials and attorneys collaborate with fingerprint operators to record and match fingerprints in databases for specific cases. You find fingerprint operators in police stations, law firms, government agencies, financial organizations, and sometimes in health care facilities, though many are independent contractors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fingerprint operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fingerprint Operator, you need attention to detail, manual dexterity, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with fingerprint scanning devices, biometric data software, and law enforcement databases is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, discretion, and reliability help in dealing professionally with individuals and maintaining confidentiality. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, compliance with legal standards, and integrity in sensitive identification processes.

What are some common challenges fingerprint operators face when collecting prints, and how can they be managed?

Fingerprint Operators often encounter challenges such as capturing clear prints from individuals with worn or damaged skin, or those who are uncooperative or anxious. To overcome these, operators use specialized techniques and equipment adjustments, and rely on strong communication skills to put individuals at ease. Attention to detail is crucial to ensure prints meet legal and identification standards. Regular training and teamwork with law enforcement or administrative staff also help maintain high-quality results and address any technical or procedural issues quickly.

What is the difference between Fingerprint Operator vs Fingerprint Technician?

AspectFingerprint OperatorFingerprint Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and fingerprinting certificationRequires similar certifications, often with additional technical training
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in law enforcement agencies or security settingsIn law enforcement, forensic labs, or security agencies
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, security firmsLaw enforcement, forensic laboratories
Job FocusCollecting and processing fingerprint dataAnalyzing, comparing, and verifying fingerprint evidence

While both roles involve fingerprinting, the Fingerprint Operator mainly collects and processes fingerprint data, whereas the Fingerprint Technician focuses on analyzing and verifying fingerprint evidence for accuracy and identification. The Technician role often requires more specialized training and technical skills.

Infographic showing various Fingerprint 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 $50,203 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Crematory Operator

NorthStar Memorial Group

Oakland, CA โ€ข On-site

$27 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

NorthStar Memorial Group is seeking a Crematory Operator to join our team at Chapel of the Chimes Oakland. It's our employee's sacred duty to honor the dignity of the deceased. Crematory Professionals at NorthStar are part of a compassionate community dedicated to upholding the highest standards of care and respect for the deceased and their families.

A Crematory Operator is responsible for the operation of cremation equipment, and the handling of human remains in accordance with California laws and regulations under the Cemetery and Funeral Bureau. The role requires strict adherence to safety, ethical, and procedural standards, and must be performed under the supervision of a Designated Licensed Crematory Manager.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate cremation equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Receive, verify, and document human remains and associated paperwork.
  • Ensure proper identification of remains and chain of custody using the digital Atlas program throughout the cremation process.
  • Maintain accurate records of cremations performed, including time, temperature, and identification.
  • Clean and maintain cremation equipment and facility.
  • Handle cremated remains respectfully and prepare them for final disposition or return to families.
  • Comply with environmental regulations, including permits from local air pollution control districts.
  • Coordinate with licensed cemeteries for final disposition of unclaimed remains after 90 days.
  • Follow all health and safety protocols, including fire inspections and occupancy certifications.

Skills and Competencies:

  • Attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to handle sensitive situations with compassion and professionalism.
  • Physical ability to lift and move remains and operate machinery.
  • Knowledge of state laws and ethical standards related to cremation.
  • Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Ability to complete all required fingerprinting and criminal background checks
  • Must submit official transcripts as part of the hiring and onboarding process
  • Must complete a Live Scan fingerprint form and meet all state-mandated screening requirements

Compensation of $27-29/hr.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • 401(k) with employer matching
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays

We are an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.