ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Operate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Aegis Living

Dishwasher

Moraga, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Operate dish/pot machines * Assist in cleaning duties including work areas, equipment, and floors * Work with kitchen staff as a team Qualifications Who You Are: * Ability to meet all health ...

Aegis Living

Dishwasher

Moraga, CA

$19/hr

Operate dish/pot machines * Assist in cleaning duties including work areas, equipment, and floors * Work with kitchen staff as a team Who You Are: * Ability to meet all health requirements * Must be ...

Smiths Machine

Machine Operator

Escondido, CA

$18 - $21/hr

Operate automatic and semi-automatic machines to produce parts per blueprints and job travelers * Load materials into machines, including maintaining bar feeders * Monitor machine operation and ...

Aegis Living

Dishwasher

Moraga, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Operate dish/pot machines * Assist in cleaning duties including work areas, equipment, and floors * Work with kitchen staff as a team Qualifications Who You Are: * Ability to meet all health ...

ARUNDEL MACHINE

Machine Operator

Elfin Forest, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Operate automatic and semi-automatic machines to produce parts per blueprints and job travelers * Load materials into machines, including maintaining bar feeders * Monitor machine operation and ...

Community Health System

Perfusionist

Fresno, CA

$72.26 - $91.95/hr

Operate heart-lung machines to regulate blood circulation and composition, to administer drugs and anesthetic agents, and to control body temperature during surgery or respiratory/cardiac failure of ...

Panasonic

Machine Operator I-Sparks,Nevada

Reno, NV

$17 - $20.25/hr

Operate and start-up the machines * Ability to identify problems and minor troubleshooting * Delivery of materials to production floor * Ability to analyze, estimate workload and perform multi ...

Panasonic

Machine Operator II-Sparks,Nevada

Reno, NV

$17 - $20.25/hr

Operate and start-up the machines * Ability to identify problems and minor troubleshooting * Delivery of materials to production floor * Ability to analyze, estimate workload and perform multi ...

Community Health System

Perfusionist

Fresno, CA

$72.26 - $91.95/hr

Operate heart-lung machines to regulate blood circulation and composition, to administer drugs and anesthetic agents, and to control body temperature during surgery or respiratory/cardiac failure of ...

Community Health System

Perfusionist

Fresno, CA · On-site

Operate heart-lung machines to regulate blood circulation and composition, to administer drugs and anesthetic agents, and to control body temperature during surgery or respiratory/cardiac failure of ...

Community Health System

Perfusionist

Fresno, CA · On-site

$72.26 - $91.95/hr

Operate heart-lung machines to regulate blood circulation and composition, to administer drugs and anesthetic agents, and to control body temperature during surgery or respiratory/cardiac failure of ...

Chipton Ross

Milling Machine Machinist 3

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$86.55/hr

Job #218624 Chipton-Ross is seeking multiple Milling Machine Machinist 3's for a contract ... Operate under restrictive policies regarding FOE (Foreign Object Debris), clean as you go, and ...

L3HHCM20

$34.27 - $59.61/hr

Perform off-line and in-process machine setups, with the ability to MDI and make program edits at machine. * Operate multi-position machines and perform contouring, profiling, turning, back spot ...

search-tactics

CNC Machinist

Gardena, CA · On-site

$25 - $32/wk

Set up and operate numerical control machine tools that automatically drill and ream metal parts. * May adjust machine feed and speed, change cutting tools, or adjust machine controls when automatic ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Operate JobsMachine Operate Jobs in California

Machine Operate information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operate 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 are some common challenges faced by machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Machine operators often encounter challenges such as handling unexpected equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent quality during long shifts, and adapting to new machinery or updated processes. Proactively performing routine maintenance, participating in regular training sessions, and collaborating closely with maintenance teams can help minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations. Additionally, clear communication with supervisors and following established safety protocols are key to effectively addressing these challenges and maintaining a productive work environment.

What does a machine operator do?

A machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery in a manufacturing or production environment. They monitor equipment to ensure it is running efficiently, make adjustments as needed, and perform routine inspections for safety and quality. Machine operators also troubleshoot issues, keep records of production, and may help with basic machine maintenance. Attention to detail and following safety protocols are crucial in this role.

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

To thrive as a Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with CNC machines, safety protocols, and quality control systems is typically required, sometimes supported by certifications like OSHA or specific machine operation credentials. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help ensure smooth production and quick response to issues. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, maximizing efficiency, and ensuring the quality of manufactured products.

What is the difference between Machine Operate vs Equipment Operator?

AspectMachine OperateEquipment Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certificationsSimilar credentials, often includes certifications for specific equipment
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, construction sitesConstruction sites, industrial facilities, warehouses
Industry UsageManufacturing, construction, logisticsConstruction, mining, transportation
Job FocusOperating machinery to produce goods or perform tasksDriving, maneuvering, and operating heavy equipment

Both Machine Operate and Equipment Operator roles involve operating machinery in industrial or construction settings. While they share similar credentials and work environments, Equipment Operator often emphasizes driving and maneuvering large equipment, whereas Machine Operate may focus more on operating specific machines for manufacturing or processing tasks.

What cities in California are hiring for Machine Operate jobs? Cities in California with the most Machine Operate job openings:
Machine Operate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operate job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Quality Inspector II (2nd Shift)

Quality Inspector II (2nd Shift)

TriMas Corporation

El Cajon, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

This position requires the inspection of machined parts, sheet metal parts, and welded parts for proper material, quality workmanship, dimensional, and functional. The position requires moderate physical exertion, such as lifting, bending and considerable time standing

This role is required to be on-site 5 days at the El Cajon, CA location.

Ability to work independently from blueprints.

Able to do inspection setup on surface plate using common inspection equipment.

Operate hardness testing machine.

Operate Optical Comparator.

Perform receiving inspection and associated paperwork.

Perform first article inspections.

Report discrepancies by writing Rejection Notices.

Perform inspection on outside processing and associated paperwork.

Perform all other duties as assigned or directed.

Required to pass eye test.

TriMas logo

About TriMas

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Bloomfield Hills, MI, US

Year founded

1988

View All TriMas Jobs

Apply