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Machine Operate Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA (NOW HIRING)

Under minimal supervision, the Prototype Manual Machinist will set up and operate Lathe and Milling machines to fabricate metallic and non-metallic parts. Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Under minimal supervision, the Prototype Manual Machinist will set up and operate Lathe and Milling machines to fabricate metallic and non-metallic parts. Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

To obtain this job title, a machine operator must be able to operate complete a training log associated with a particular zone. Duties/Responsibilities: To perform this job successfully, an ...

Operate/monitor multiple pieces of equipment during operation to ensure quality production and minimal unplanned stops. * Communicate with team members and support teams to ensure continuous ...

Machinist

Goleta, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

We are seeking a skilled CNC Machinist to set up, operate, and maintain CNC machines to produce high-quality precision parts. The ideal candidate will have experience reading blueprints, using ...

Machinist

Goleta, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

We are seeking a skilled CNC Machinist to set up, operate, and maintain CNC machines to produce high-quality precision parts. The ideal candidate will have experience reading blueprints, using ...

Machinist

Goleta, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

We are seeking a skilled CNC Machinist to set up, operate, and maintain CNC machines to produce high-quality precision parts. The ideal candidate will have experience reading blueprints, using ...

Machinist 2 - CNC

Goleta, CA · On-site

$22 - $30.25/hr

In this role, you will set up and operate a variety of manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture precision metal parts, tools, and mechanical components. This position requires strong experience ...

Machinist 2 - CNC

Goleta, CA · On-site

$22 - $30.25/hr

In this role, you will set up and operate a variety of manual and CNC machine tools to manufacture precision metal parts, tools, and mechanical components. This position requires strong experience ...

Machinist 2 - CNC

Goleta, CA · On-site

$22 - $30.25/hr

Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools including lathes, mills, grinders, and related equipment * Read and interpret blueprints, assembly drawings, engineering specifications, and work ...

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Machine Operate information

See Santa Barbara, CA salary details

$13

$20

$26

How much do machine operate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operate in Santa Barbara, CA is $20.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 near Santa Barbara, CA are hiring for Machine Operate jobs? Cities near Santa Barbara, CA with the most Machine Operate job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operate job openings in Santa Barbara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,089 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Prototype Manual Machinist

Sonatech

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Sonatech, LLC is a premier undersea acoustics engineering and manufacturing company. With a focus on supplying advanced sonar solutions for the US Navy, our technical expertise, customized design capabilities and diverse manufacturing abilities have led to Sonatech products being deployed on virtually every class of underwater Navy system currently in operation.
Located in beautiful Santa Barbara, CA we pride ourselves as having a culture of innovation as well as first-class customer service. Sonatech has a challenging and rewarding work environment where employees have the opportunity to develop their careers by taking on new responsibilities and providing innovative solutions.
Position Summary: Under minimal supervision, the Prototype Manual Machinist will set up and operate Lathe and Milling machines to fabricate metallic and non-metallic parts.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform set-up and prototype on manual mill and lathe tasks in a safe and responsible manner
  • Read and interpret blueprints
  • Plan the sequence of necessary actions for the completion of a job
  • Use measuring instruments to meet tolerance requirements
  • Perform daily and regular cleaning and light maintenance tasks on machinery
  • Operate CNC mills and lathes when needed
  • Utilize and abide by ISO requirements and safety procedures
  • Comply with all quality policies, specifications, regulations, and instructions

Required Qualifications:
  • Experience in using manual, semi-automated or automated tools and machines (mills, lathes, grinders, etc.)
  • Ability to use precision tools (e.g., calipers) to take accurate measurements
  • Understand and have the ability to perform tool wear offsets
  • Ability to read blueprints, schematics and manuals
  • High school diploma or equivalent; completion of vocational training or an apprenticeship will be an asset
  • 18+ Years of age
  • U.S. Citizenship or permanent resident

Benefits
Benefits include medical, dental and vision, life insurance, paid vacation and sick time, 3% 401K contribution (no matching required), company events
Salary Range
Salary range: $25 - $35/hour
Sonatech is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Sonatech logo

About Sonatech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Barbara, CA, US

Year founded

1973