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Hardware Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vantedge Medical

Hardware Operator I

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Hardware Operator I Full-time | Permanent | Onsite Hourly | $20.00 - $22.00 Day Shift *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. About Us: Vander-Bend is a U.S.-based ...

Vantedge Medical - VDB

Hardware Operator I

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Description Hardware Operator I Full-time | Permanent | Onsite Hourly | $20.00 - $22.00 Day Shift *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. About Us: Vander-Bend is a U.S ...

Vantedge

Hardware Operator I

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Hardware Operator I Full-time Permanent Onsite Hourly $20.00 - $22.00 Day Shift *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. About Us: Vander ...

Vantedge Medical - VDB

Hardware Operator II

Stockton, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Description Hardware Operator II Full-time | Permanent | Onsite Hourly | $23.00 - $25.00 Day Shift *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. About Us: Vander-Bend is a U.S ...

Vantedge Medical

Hardware Operator II

Stockton, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Hardware Operator II Full-time | Permanent | Onsite Hourly | $23.00 - $25.00 Day Shift *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. About Us: Vander-Bend is a U.S.-based ...

Vantedge

Hardware Operator II

Stockton, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Hardware Operator II Full-time Permanent Onsite Hourly $23.00 - $25.00 Day Shift *We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role. About Us: Vander ...

Sytech

Hardware Operator I

Spokane, WA · On-site

$19.50 - $23/hr

Hardware Machine Operator s We are fast paced precision metal fabrication company seeking to add a Hardware Machine Operator to our team. The operator will use a Haeger machine to insert pems or ...

maysteel

Hardware Operator I

Garland, TX

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

The Hardware Operator is responsible for accurately setting up, operating and maintaining PEM insertion machines to install fasteners and hardware into sheet metal according to specifications. The ...

Maysteel Industries, LLC

Hardware Operator I

Garland, TX · On-site

$19 - $20.25/hr

The Hardware Operator is responsible for accurately setting up, operating and maintaining PEM insertion machines to install fasteners and hardware into sheet metal according to specifications. The ...

Navi AI

Founding Hardware Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$145K - $192K/yr

It has to meet certification standards for operating in aircraft. And it has to be built fast ... Build hardware that is ruggedized for cockpit environments - thermal, vibrational, and ...

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Machine Operator - Hardware Installer

Lawrenceville, GA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

2nd shift - 2pm-10:30pm Machine Operator (Hardware Installer) needed. The successful candidate will be responsible for proper installation of all pem nuts, standoffs, studs, and all specialty ...

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Hardware Operator information

See salary details

$12

$24

$48

How much do hardware operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for hardware operator in the United States is $24.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hardware operator?

To thrive as a Hardware Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with industrial control systems, diagnostic tools, and safety protocols is essential for daily tasks. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills that help prevent errors and ensure smooth operations. These competencies are vital for minimizing equipment downtime, maintaining productivity, and ensuring workplace safety.

What are some common challenges hardware operators face, and how can they effectively address them?

Hardware Operators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, managing time-sensitive tasks, and adapting to rapidly changing technology. To address these challenges, it's important to develop strong problem-solving skills, stay current with equipment manuals and updates, and communicate proactively with technical support teams. Collaborating closely with engineers and IT staff can also help resolve issues quickly and minimize downtime, ensuring smooth operations.

What is the difference between Hardware Operator vs Equipment Technician?

AspectHardware OperatorEquipment Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsMaintenance workshops, industrial facilities, manufacturing sites
Job FocusOperating and monitoring machineryMaintaining, repairing, troubleshooting equipment
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, production plantsIndustrial, manufacturing, and maintenance companies

While both roles work within industrial environments, Hardware Operators primarily focus on operating machinery, whereas Equipment Technicians handle maintenance and repairs. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Hardware Operator jobs

What job categories do people searching Hardware Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Hardware Operator jobs are:

Hardware Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hardware Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,154 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Hardware Operator I

Vantedge Medical

Stockton, CA • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Installs hardware such as press-fit, PEM, Southco, and nutserts into parts using appropriate tools and machinery.

  • Selects tooling, sets up equipment, and follows priorities to complete hardware installation tasks.

  • Reads blueprints, inspects hardware installation quality, and ensures proper handling and stacking of parts.

Job description

Description:

Hardware Operator I

Full-time | Permanent | Onsite
Hourly | $20.00 - $22.00

Day Shift 


*We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role.


About Us:
Vander-Bend is a U.S.-based manufacturer dedicated to building the precision infrastructure that powers tomorrow’s AI. Our expertise in server racking and power delivery solutions provides the backbone for next-generation data centers, enabling hyperscalers and integrators to innovate and scale globally. With a focus on trusted, domestic manufacturing, we deliver quality, speed, and innovation at scale—redefining AI infrastructure for the future.

We are a newly created division of Vantedge Medical, the premier metals-based med-tech solutions partner from concept to full-scale manufacturing. With a steadfast commitment to advancing technology, we take immense pride in the work we do – and have a lot of fun doing it.


About This Opportunity:

This position is responsible for the less complex set-up and installation of most types of hardware. The Hardware Operator I can set up and operate machines and HW jobs without the close supervision needed by the Hardware operator Trainee.



Responsibilities

  • Installs Press-fit and other types of hardware into parts using hardware presses and other purpose- built tools and machinery.
  • Accepts and follows priorities assigned by the Hardware Lead and Hardware Operator 2.
  • Selects tooling and sets-up to each job. When production volume indicates the need for auto-feed, sets up simpler auto-feed tooling.
  • Installs all types of PEM and similar press-in hardware, press-in Southco, flare-in Southco, nutserts, and similar hardware
  • Inserts dowel pins and determines proper installation height with dial calipers
  • Determines correct installation and failed installation visually, and using sample hardware and/or thread gauges
  • Reads and interprets blueprints.
  • Ensures the proper handling and stacking of parts to produce quality product.
  • Helps to keep hardware department area clean and orderly.
Requirements:


  • Requires the ability to read and understand written documents.
  • 1 year of experience in precision sheet metal of which 6 months must be installing Hardware.
  • Read and correctly interpret blueprints.
  • Ability to visually differentiate between metal types both plated and non-plated.
  • Knowledge of hardware types including thread pitches both standard and metric, most PEM hardware types.
  • Use of dial calipers to measure material thickness, hardware types, and hardware installation heights.
  • Basic arithmetic such as addition and subtraction.
  • Physical Requirements: Most assigned tasks for this position may involve “Medium Work”, as defined below. The hiring authority may review the applicant’s physical ability based on the specific tasks to be assigned:
  1. Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.