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Folding Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Production Associate

El Monte, CA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... machine operating, housekeeping and adherence to health and safety standards. Accuracy and productivity of work is necessary for inventory control and accountability. * Folding and preparing items ...

Production Associate

El Monte, CA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

... machine operating, housekeeping and adherence to health and safety standards. Accuracy and productivity of work is necessary for inventory control and accountability. Folding and preparing items ...

THE ROLE Embroidery Machine Operator Quince is hiring Embroidery Machine Operators for our ... Support finishing work including trimming, folding, tagging, bagging, and packing as needed ...

$24 - $28/hr

Folder/Gluer Machine Operator - 1st Shift Why Great Northern Established in 1962, Great Northern is ... Set heads, pull sheets, change glue heads, move top folding rails, set calipers, set side guides ...

$24 - $28/hr

Folder/Gluer Machine Operator - 1st Shift Why Great Northern Established in 1962, Great Northern is ... Set heads, pull sheets, change glue heads, move top folding rails, set calipers, set side guides ...

To cut paper stock and prepare loads for folding, stitching, hand assembly or shipping. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Review specifications to determine page sequence, type of fold and page or sheet ...

Assembler

Anaheim, CA

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Product Production : performs hand assembly via folding machine, die cutter, cleaner machine and ... Notifies operator of defects. Department Schedule : Works the standard shift to meet run rate ...

Assembler

Anaheim, CA

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Product Production : performs hand assembly via folding machine, die cutter, cleaner machine and ... Notifies operator of defects. Department Schedule : Works the standard shift to meet run rate ...

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As a Komori Offset Press Operator, you'll play a crucial role in our printing operations, ensuring ... We supply customers folding carton packaging and commercial printing. We offer traditional offset 4 ...

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Folding Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$16

How much do folding machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for folding machine operator in California is $16.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $16.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Folding Machine Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Folding Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as machine jams, misfeeds, or inconsistent folding quality, especially when working with different paper types or complex folding patterns. These issues can be managed by regularly maintaining and cleaning the machines, closely monitoring the production process, and promptly adjusting settings as needed. Successful operators also communicate frequently with team members to coordinate workload and troubleshoot problems collaboratively. Developing strong attention to detail and technical troubleshooting skills can help address these challenges efficiently.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators with advanced skills, certifications, and experience can earn higher wages. Roles involving CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines or operating heavy industrial equipment tend to offer the highest salaries among machine operators.

What is the difference between Folding Machine Operator vs Cutting Machine Operator?

AspectFolding Machine OperatorCutting Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications in machine operationHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in machine operation
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or printing facilities, operating folding machinesManufacturing or printing facilities, operating cutting machines
Industry UsagePrinting, packaging, and paper industriesPrinting, packaging, and paper industries
Common Search IntentComparing roles in paper folding and finishingComparing roles in cutting and finishing processes

Both Folding Machine Operators and Cutting Machine Operators work in manufacturing environments, often within printing or packaging industries. While their roles involve operating specialized machinery, the primary difference lies in their tasks: folding versus cutting paper or materials. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right role aligned with their skills and career goals.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

The salary of a folding machine operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators who are certified or work in high-demand areas may earn higher wages and benefits. Overtime and shift differentials can also impact overall compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Folding Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Folding Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial folding machines, basic maintenance tools, and sometimes experience with computerized control systems is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, the ability to work independently, and effective communication help operators excel in identifying issues and ensuring smooth production flow. These skills are vital for maintaining product quality, minimizing downtime, and supporting efficient manufacturing operations.

What Does a Folding Machine Operator Do?

As a folding machine operator, your job is to set up, operate, and tend to a machine that folds paper, cardboard, clothes, or other materials. To accomplish this, you select the equipment to be used for each folding job, load and unload the materials, score the finished products to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications, and perform maintenance on the components of your machine after use. Your works as a folding machine operator may involve heavy lifting and long periods of standing. You may also operate forklifts or other large machines to transport products before and after folding them.

What is a folding machine operator?

A folding machine operator is responsible for operating and maintaining folding machines used to fold paper, cardboard, or other materials in printing, packaging, or manufacturing settings. They set up the machine, monitor its operation, and ensure the finished products meet quality standards, often requiring attention to detail and familiarity with machine controls. This role may involve working with various types of folding equipment and adhering to safety procedures.

What are Folding Machine Operators?

Folding Machine Operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain machines designed to fold paper, cardboard, or similar materials into specific shapes or configurations. These operators work primarily in printing, packaging, or manufacturing environments. Their responsibilities include adjusting machine settings, monitoring the production process, performing quality checks, and troubleshooting minor mechanical issues to ensure smooth operation and product accuracy.
What job categories do people searching Folding Machine Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Folding Machine Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Folding Machine Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Folding Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Folding Machine Operator jobs in CA? For Folding Machine Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Machine Operator - Gluer (Folding)

Machine Operator - Gluer (Folding)

GOLDEN WEST PACKAGING GROUP

City Of Industry, CA • On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Golden West Packaging Group rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 114 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

  • Role and Responsibilities:
  • This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of various gluing machines to produce excellent quality products for our customers. The Operator is also responsible for directing the work of team members to maximize productivity. When job is complete operator will due a complete line clearance
  • weigh waste and document waste and cases on job ticket.
  • Equipment:
  • Jagenberg Diana
  • Bobst Expertfold
  • SCM-850
  • SCM
  • Tasks performed:                                                                                                                                                 
    • Preparing the jobs for Gluing consist of the following.
    • Line Clearance
    • Locate Job Ticket
    • Completing make-readies and in-process adjustments on glue machines.
    • Once Job is Signed Off due 1st Article Inspections
    • Continue checks through run
    • Operating various glue machines, glue extrusion units, and case packing machines.
    • Reducing carton waste and rework and producing quality cartons.
    • Reading and understanding the order job ticket before make-ready or for a job already running.
    • Feeding, packing, catching cartons when needed.
    • Checking carton quality, batch count and case pack regularly.
    •  
      • Completing the job order and checking final production count against order.
      • Ensuring that feeders, catchers, packers complete their assigned job duties effectively.
      • Assisting case stacker with setting up and labeling cases.
      • Doing operator level machine repairs and maintenance when needed.
      • Completing preventative maintenance and the appropriate documentation as required.
      • Cleaning machines and sweeping floors.
      • Carton rework or salvage if necessary.
      • Once run is complete weigh waste and document waste and cases on job ticket
      • Make partial pallet if needed
      • Line clearance
    • Other tasks:
      • Maintain housekeeping standards.
      • Achieve targeted performance standards on make-ready, run, non-chargeable times and waste.
      • Provide daily feedback to supervision regarding all aspects of shift activities.
      • Adhere to all safety rules.
      • Follow directions of Shift Supervisor
  • Education & Work Experience
    • Three plus years of experience as a Gluer/Finishing Operator in a manufacturing folding carton plant is highly desirable.
    • Experience setting up and operating gluing machines, producing side seam, auto bottom, reverse fold, window cartons on various substrates, coatings and laminates such as foil, UV, and aqueous coatings is required.
    • Experience setting up and operating glue extrusion units, case packers and performing operator level maintenance
    • High school Diploma
    • 3-5+ years in industry specific experience
  • Interpersonal/Work Relationship Skills
    • Works effectively with co-workers, customers and others by sharing ideas in a constructive and
    • positive manner; listens to and objectively considers ideas and suggestions from others;
    • keeps commitments; keeps others informed of work progress, timetables, and issues;
    • addresses problems and issues constructively to find mutually acceptable and practical business
    • solutions; interacts with fellow managers, employees, vendors and customers in a professional
    • and respectful manner; addresses others by name, title or other respectful identifier, and; respecting
    • the diversity of our work force in actions, words and deeds.
  • Skills & Qualifications:
    • Proficient in math, writing and computer skills.
    • Excellent organizational and analytical skills.

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