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Food Manufacturing Machine Operator Jobs in California

Mixer Machine Operator

Bell, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

We are currently hiring experienced Machine Operators! 2nd Shift Position Requirements These roles ... Food Manufacturing Experience preferred. Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of: * Machine ...

New

Mixer Machine Operator

Bell, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

We are currently hiring experienced Machine Operators! 2nd Shift Position Requirements These roles ... Food Manufacturing Experience preferred. Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of: * Machine ...

New

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Filler Machine Operator Location: Bakersfield, CA Employment Type: Full-Time, Temp-to-Hire Pay Rate ... Food manufacturing or bottling experience preferred. * Good communication skills and ability to ...

Machine Operator 1

Valencia, CA · On-site

$21.24 - $28/hr

... manufacturing processes. • Read and follow work instructions, drawings and specifications and ... as a Machine Operator I.  Learn to monitor machine performance throughout production runs ...

Machine Operator 1

Valencia, CA · On-site

$21.24 - $28/hr

Read and follow work instructions, drawings and specifications and other manufacturing ... Learn to perform machine setups, verify tooling, and ensure equipment is operating according to ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 12, 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:

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.

3rd Shift Machine- Operator Food Manufacturing Industry

Mira Loma, CA • On-site

Magnolia Foods, Llc.
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$19.50 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Description

Ensure all mixing ingredients are accurate according to the most updated formulas while strictly following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and all food safety procedures. The employee must be responsible, knowledgeable about machinery, and capable of properly operating and cleaning equipment.


Schedule

Monday through Friday, 9:45 PM – 6:00 AM


Duties & Responsibilities
  • Comply with all Plant, State, and Federal regulations, including OSHA, EPA, FDA, HACCP, and SQF.
  • Avoid using any raw materials that are damaged or defective (e.g., incorrect color, poor appearance, expired, etc.).
  • Verify that products in process meet all specifications, including color, appearance, diameter, and weight.
  • Start up and shut down machinery safely and efficiently.
  • Monitor and verify machinery temperature to ensure it meets product specifications.
  • Clean machinery on a daily basis in accordance with sanitation standards.
  • Accurately document all required information in mixing logs.
  • Report any product discrepancies or equipment issues to the Lead and Supervisor immediately.
  • Follow all quality assurance, SQF, and food safety standards.
  • Adhere to all plant safety procedures at all times.
  • Wear appropriate attire and required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Follow lockout/tagout procedures when required.
  • Support wastewater management practices.
  • Perform other duties as assigned based on departmental and business needs.

Specific Skills & Abilities
  • Punctual, dependable, and able to perform all job duties efficiently and satisfactorily.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while demonstrating initiative.
  • Comfortable working both alone and as part of a team.
  • Demonstrates leadership qualities that promote effective teamwork and communication.
  • Ability to understand and follow all policies, procedures, instructions, and safety regulations written in English.
  • Capable of effectively communicating, reporting, and presenting information in English.
  • Demonstrates sound judgment in decision-making.
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions provided in written, oral, or diagram form.