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Food Manufacturing Machine Operator Jobs in California

Managed Staffing

Machine Operator

Lodi, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Contract Position Overview Seeking a Machine Operator (Rheon - Case Packer/Packaging Equipment) to support food manufacturing operations at the Lodi, CA facility. This role requires hands-on machine ...

People First Employment

Machine Operator

Chino, CA · On-site

$18/hr

We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Machine Operator to join our production team in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating ...

Hardscapes & Masonry

Machine Operator

Winters, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $21.75/hr

Safe Operation and Maintenance of a Sophisticated, Computerized, Manufacturing Machine * Reporting ... Operating a Forklift We Require: * A Minimum of 1 Year of Manufacturing Experience. * You Must Have ...

Hardscapes and Masonry

Machine Operator

Winters, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $21.75/hr

Safe Operation and Maintenance of a Sophisticated, Computerized, Manufacturing Machine * Reporting ... Operating a Forklift We Require: * A Minimum of 1 Year of Manufacturing Experience. * You Must Have ...

Pavestone

Machine Operator

Winters, CA

$19 - $23/hr

Safe Operation and Maintenance of a Sophisticated, Computerized, Manufacturing Machine * Reporting ... Operating a Forklift We Require: * A Minimum of 1 Year of Manufacturing Experience. * You Must Have ...

Triumph Group

Machine Operator

Valencia, CA

$21.24 - $37/hr

Operator, load, set-up and monitor automated manufacturing equipment and CNC machines used to produce precision aerospace components Perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is ...

Triumph Group

Machine Operator

Valencia, CA

$21.24 - $37/hr

Operator, load, set-up and monitor automated manufacturing equipment and CNC machines used to produce precision aerospace components Perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is ...

Triumph Group

Machine Operator

Valencia, CA

$21.54 - $37/hr

Operator, load, set-up and monitor automated manufacturing equipment and CNC machines used to produce precision aerospace components Perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is ...

Triumph Group

Machine Operator

Valencia, CA

$21.24 - $37/hr

Operator, load, set-up and monitor automated manufacturing equipment and CNC machines used to produce precision aerospace components Perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is ...

Triumph Group

Machine Operator

Valencia, CA · On-site

$21.24 - $37/hr

Operator, load, set-up and monitor automated manufacturing equipment and CNC machines used to produce precision aerospace components Perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is ...

Triumph Group

Machine Operator

Valencia, CA

$21.24 - $37/hr

Operator, load, set-up and monitor automated manufacturing equipment and CNC machines used to produce precision aerospace components Perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is ...

Triumph Group, Inc.

Machine Operator

Valencia, CA · On-site

$21.24 - $37/hr

Operator, load, set-up and monitor automated manufacturing equipment and CNC machines used to produce precision aerospace components Perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is ...

Triumph Group, Inc.

Machine Operator

Valencia, CA · On-site

$21.54 - $37/hr

Operator, load, set-up and monitor automated manufacturing equipment and CNC machines used to produce precision aerospace components Perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is ...

Triumph Group, Inc.

Machine Operator

Valencia, CA · On-site

$21.24 - $37/hr

Operator, load, set-up and monitor automated manufacturing equipment and CNC machines used to produce precision aerospace components Perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is ...

Triumph Group, Inc.

Machine Operator

Valencia, CA

$21.24 - $37/hr

Operator, load, set-up and monitor automated manufacturing equipment and CNC machines used to produce precision aerospace components Perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is ...

Triumph Group, Inc.

Machine Operator

Valencia, CA · On-site

$21.24 - $37/hr

Operator, load, set-up and monitor automated manufacturing equipment and CNC machines used to produce precision aerospace components Perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is ...

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All JobsFood Manufacturing Machine Operator JobsFood Manufacturing Machine Operator Jobs in California

Food Manufacturing Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do food manufacturing machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for food manufacturing machine operator in California is $17.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a food manufacturing machine operator do?

A Food Manufacturing Machine Operator is responsible for running and maintaining machinery that processes, packages, or prepares food products in a factory setting. Their tasks include setting up equipment, monitoring production lines, performing quality checks, and troubleshooting minor issues to ensure efficient operation. They must follow strict safety and hygiene standards to prevent contamination and ensure product quality. Operators may also be involved in cleaning machinery and recording production data.

What are some common challenges faced by food manufacturing machine operators, and how can they be managed?

Food Manufacturing Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and adhering to strict safety and hygiene standards. Managing these challenges requires attention to detail, quick problem-solving skills, and thorough knowledge of the machinery used. Regular training, proactive maintenance, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams help operators minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations. Staying organized and following established protocols can also make it easier to handle high production demands and frequent changeovers.

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

To excel as a Food Manufacturing Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, basic mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with automated production equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes HACCP certification is important. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills help operators maintain quality and efficiently address issues. These skills ensure safe, consistent production and help meet strict food industry standards.

What is the difference between Food Manufacturing Machine Operator vs Food Processing Technician?

AspectFood Manufacturing Machine OperatorFood Processing Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, manufacturing plantsProcessing facilities, quality control labs, production areas
Job FocusOperating and monitoring machinery to produce food productsMaintaining, troubleshooting, and improving processing equipment
Common UsageManufacturing food items like snacks, beverages, canned goodsEnsuring quality, safety, and efficiency in food processing

While both roles work in food production environments, Food Manufacturing Machine Operators primarily focus on operating machinery, whereas Food Processing Technicians handle equipment maintenance and quality control. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Food Manufacturing Machine Operator jobs in California?

For Food Manufacturing Machine Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Manufacturing Machine Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Manufacturing Machine Operator jobs in California are:

Food Manufacturing Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Manufacturing Machine Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Manufacturing Machine Operator I

THRESHOLD ENTERPRISES LTD

Scotts Valley, CA • On-site

$18/hr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Summary of Job Duties:
Machine Operator 1 is responsible for operating various equipment and carrying out tasks in the manufacture of dietary supplements. The manufacturing process includes weighing, granulation (wet and dry), milling, blending, roller compaction, tablet compression, encapsulation, and coating. A successful Machine Operator 1 will be responsible for primarily performing one process and carry out the related tasks while adhering to all food safety and quality guidelines, current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP); maintaining required records and documentation; and following department safety, sterility, and sanitation requirements.
Specific Job Duties:
  1. Operate machinery and ability to troubleshoot issues involving tablet, capsule, and processing equipment (e.g., dry granulation, wet granulation, milling, blending, roller compaction, tablet compression, encapsulation, and coating) used in the manufacturing of dietary supplements.
  2. Ensure that equipment is running efficiently while producing high-quality product in a safe, sanitary, and cost-effective manner that meets company and regulatory standards.
  3. Accurately weigh and mix batches of material.
  4. Follow Good Documentation Practices (GDP) to complete all documentation required for batch processing in a cGMP compliant manner, including master manufacturing records (MMR), process labels, room and equipment logbooks, and in-process documentation.
  5. Use an iPad to input production information, including quality data, lot numbers, and quality issues into production management software.
  6. Monitor product and process parameters throughout the process and perform in-process sampling and/or testing as required.
  7. Communicate manufacturing equipment and facilities problems to Manufacturing Leadership.
  8. Assist with plant sanitation and good housekeeping as required, including sweeping, mopping, wiping walls and surfaces, and washing, emptying containers.
  9. Follow all safety practices and guidelines, including wearing the required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  10. Able to work outside normal scheduled hours and overtime, as required.
  11. Work in a dynamic team environment.
  12. Ensure full compliance with Companies Policies, Procedures, GMP's, Code of Safe Practices and SOPs.
  13. Maximize manufacturing uptime, while ensuring consistent plant operation performance to quality, productivity, cost, and safety requirements.
  14. Take direction from the Machine Operator 2 and Team Lead, as required.
  15. Performs other duties as assigned by Threshold management.

Minimum Qualifications Required:
  1. Minimum of 18 years of age.
  2. 1-3 years of experience working with equipment or in a manufacturing environment, or equivalent.
  3. Self-motivated and ability to take initiative and use sound judgment in day-to-day decision making.
  4. Punctual and reliable in work attendance.
  5. Ability to repeatedly lift up to 50 lbs. in a safe manner.
  6. Ability to stand for long periods of time.
  7. Ability to work in an environment with exposure to allergenic supplement powder and loud heavy equipment.
  8. Ability to read and write legibly in English.
  9. Ability to work assigned shifts and/or schedules.
  10. Basic math skills including the ability to convert units of measure.

Skills and/or Training Desired:
  1. High school diploma, G.E.D., or equivalent, preferred.
  2. Some mechanical aptitude.
  3. Basic computer skills (familiarity with iPads and Notebooks a plus).
  4. Basic understanding of Food Safety and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
  5. Capable of working with minimal supervision.
  6. Good decision-making skills.
  7. Good time management and organization skills.
  8. Communicate effectively verbally and in written documents.

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