1

Labeling Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Azusa, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $21/hr

The Machine Operator must be cross functional in Food Safety to be able to perform in any area ... Verify the master case label for accuracy. Compare against the packing spec sheets for accuracy

Build your Career with an Industry Leader As the global leader of premium labels, MCC helps brands ... We are currently looking for a Rewinder Operator to join our team. Experience is not required but ...

Machine Operator

Fullerton, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Build your Career with an Industry Leader As the global leader of premium labels, MCC helps brands ... We are currently looking for a Rewinder Operator to join our team. Experience is not required but ...

Build your Career with an Industry Leader As the global leader of premium labels, MCC helps brands ... We are currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team. Experience is not required but ...

Machine Operator

North Highlands, CA

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Build your Career with an Industry Leader As the global leader of premium labels, MCC helps brands ... We are currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team. Experience is not required but ...

Machine Operator II-ARP

Chino, CA ยท On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Minor maintenance activities are required. 4. Directly responsible for the proper support to Labeler Machine Operators and all other team members to ensure a positive team environment. 5. Checks and ...

Machine Operator II-ARP

Chino, CA

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Minor maintenance activities are required. 4. Directly responsible for the proper support to Labeler Machine Operators and all other team members to ensure a positive team environment. 5. Checks and ...

Be Seen First

Skilled Machine Operators

San Marcos, CA ยท On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Print and apply labels; select proper packaging materials. * Complete production and quality logs. Irradiation Machine Operator * Performs a wide range of operations connected with the irradiation of ...

Machine Operator

Lake Forest, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Previous machine operation and forklift experience * Experience and knowledge of machinery and/or ... Label material with correct descriptions * Meet or exceed customer's specifications as outlined on ...

Machine Operator

Lake Forest, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $21.25/hr

Previous machine operation and forklift experience * Experience and knowledge of machinery and/or ... Label material with correct descriptions * Meet or exceed customer's specifications as outlined on ...

Machine Operator

Lake Forest, CA

$18 - $21.25/hr

Previous machine operation and forklift experience * Experience and knowledge of machinery and/or ... Label material with correct descriptions * Meet or exceed customer's specifications as outlined on ...

Machine Operator

Lake Forest, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Previous machine operation and forklift experience * Experience and knowledge of machinery and/or ... Label material with correct descriptions * Meet or exceed customer's specifications as outlined on ...

Machine Operator

Lake Forest, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Previous machine operation and forklift experience * Experience and knowledge of machinery and/or ... Label material with correct descriptions * Meet or exceed customer's specifications as outlined on ...

Machine Operator

Lake Forest, CA

$18 - $21.50/hr

Previous machine operation and forklift experience * Experience and knowledge of machinery and/or ... Label material with correct descriptions * Meet or exceed customer's specifications as outlined on ...

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Fresno, CA ยท On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices ... Ensure correct labeling, bottle description and packaging of product in accordance with specific ...

Machine Operator- 2nd Shift

Fresno, CA ยท On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices ... Ensure correct labeling, bottle description and packaging of product in accordance with specific ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Labeling Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do labeling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for labeling machine operator in California is $18.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Labeling Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of production processes, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with labeling machines, packaging equipment, and basic quality control systems is typically required, with some employers valuing forklift certification or experience with computerized control panels. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well in a team are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure efficient, accurate labeling and packaging operations, minimizing errors and maintaining product quality.

What are some common challenges a Labeling Machine Operator might face, and how can they be addressed?

Labeling Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as machine jams, misaligned labels, or inconsistent label application due to equipment wear or product variation. Proactively performing routine maintenance, carefully monitoring machine settings, and promptly addressing minor issues can greatly reduce downtime. Collaborating with maintenance technicians and quality control teams is essential for quickly resolving persistent problems and ensuring production targets are met. Staying organized and attentive during shifts also helps prevent errors and maintain a smooth workflow.

What does a Labeling Machine Operator do?

A Labeling Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that apply labels to products or packaging. Their duties typically include loading labels, adjusting equipment for different product sizes, inspecting labels for accuracy and quality, and troubleshooting machine issues. They also ensure that labeling meets company and regulatory standards, maintain production records, and follow safety protocols. This role is essential in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing where accurate labeling is crucial.

What is the difference between Labeling Machine Operator vs Packaging Technician?

AspectLabeling Machine OperatorPackaging Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or production lines, operating labeling machineryPackaging lines, handling products and packaging equipment
Industry UsageManufacturing, food, pharmaceuticals, consumer goodsManufacturing, food processing, pharmaceuticals, logistics

The main difference is that Labeling Machine Operators focus on operating and maintaining labeling machinery, ensuring products are correctly labeled. Packaging Technicians handle the broader packaging process, including preparing products for shipment and managing packaging materials. Both roles require attention to detail and familiarity with manufacturing environments, but their specific tasks and equipment differ.

What cities in California are hiring for Labeling Machine Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Labeling Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Labeling Machine Operator job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,544 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Sterling Foods

Azusa, CA โ€ข On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Under direct supervision this position is responsible for maintaining a variety of machines servicing each production line. The Machine Operator must be cross functional in Food Safety to be able to perform in any area needed in the plant. This is an entry level position.
DUTIES
โ€ขSet up machine โ€ขMake necessary adjustment to avoid down time โ€ขThread appropriate film โ€ขMaintain corrective down time log โ€ขVarious machines involving packing of product

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-speed environment, follow standardized work, and adhere to safety, and food safety practices in a continuous improvement environment
  • Ability to work overtime
  • Train new employees and coach existing employees
  • Ensure the safety and productivity of all employees assigned to the work area
  • Enforce all safety, food safety, and packaging procedures
  • Coordinate morning stretches/warm-ups with designated crew
  • Be clear about expectations for quality, accuracy, timeliness, and work expected from the staff assigned to the work area
  • Maintain a clean and safe workplace throughout the shift
  • Refer to the production schedule for the shift to determine the products being run and in what sequence
  • Be on time at the workstation
  • Set up the machine (es) for the product being run
  • Verify the cleanliness of the equipment. Report any findings to the lead, or QA if necessary
  • Perform the pre-operational inspection before commencing production. Report any equipment failures, safety, and/or food safety risks to the lead, QA, and/or supervisor
  • Obtain any other auxiliary equipment and/or materials needed (tables, conveyors, trash cans, towels, carts, catch trays, wood pallets, slip sheets, etc.)
  • Ensure that the master cases and the film have been pre-staged and that are correct. Refer to packing spec sheets to validate
  • Run some units through the flow wrapper to ensure that the equipment is working properly Report any equipment failure to the lead and/or supervisor
  • Verify first units of product (film size, seal integrity, MD-encoder information)
  • Verify the master case label for accuracy. Compare against the packing spec sheets for accuracy
  • Run a master case through the tape machine to verify code date accuracy
  • Take/record packing weights during start-up and throughout the shift
  • Coordinate the designated crew to take their positions to start the line
  • Perform CCP checks throughout the shift
  • Report any CCP deviations to the line lead and QA
  • Coordinate the designated crew to take their positions to start the line
  • Monitor units packed/min and cases packed/hr, record the information, and report inefficiencies or operational problems to the line lead, and/or supervisor
  • Distribute the documentation for the scheduled run to the assigned staff (e.g. palletizer, material handler, backup machine operator, etc.) and monitor all the data being captured throughout the shift
  • Ask for any material needed in advance to the material handler and/or lead. Keep communicating the needs throughout the shift
  • Coordinate breaks and lunches with packing lead
  • Operate and monitor multiple pieces of equipment during operation to ensure quality production and minimal unplanned stops
  • Keep constant communication with the staff to attain cases scheduled/hr. Report any issues to the lead and/or supervisor
  • Change film (s) when necessary
  • Fill out production documentation throughout the shift
  • Maintain a clean work area throughout the shift by coordinating with designated staff.
  • Coordinate the designated staff during DT (e.g. cleaning, trash removal, breaks, and lunches to other lines and/or their own, pan cleaning, etc.)
  • Communicate with the lead and/or supervisor about incoming shift production (s)
  • Assemble, disassemble, and wash equipment when necessary (e.g. changeovers, shift change, etc.)
  • Communicate and perform a shift hand-off with the incoming machine operator.
  • Review shift documentation for accuracy and submit it once verified to QA and/or Line Lead at the end of the shift
  • Delegate work assignments to the staff in your area throughout the shift
  • Perform related duties as assigned or as the situation dictates
  • Other tasks assigned by management outside the scope of regular duties

Equipment Used

  • Bosch Lines
  • Metal Detectors
  • Tape machines

Qualifications

  • Good mechanical skills
  • Good communication skills
  • Writing ability
  • Must be flexible to work on weekend
  • Motivated self-starter
  • Proven ability to work within a team environment
  • Able to take direction from more than one supervisor
  • Good mechanical skills โ€ขGood communication skills โ€ขWriting ability โ€ขKnowledge of basic machines โ€ขKnowledge of Safety processes โ€ขKnowledge of Food Safety Good attitude โ€ขSelf-starter โ€ขGood team player