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Machine Operator Assistant Jobs in Salinas, CA (NOW HIRING)

Loader/Operator

Monterey, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $30/hr

... Assist with general labor, cleanup, traffic control setup, equipment staging, and other ... Knowledge of safe heavy equipment operation, including loader controls, attachments, machine ...

CNC Lathe Machinist journeyman

Morgan Hill, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $32/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for setting up and operating CNC LATHE machines to produce ... Maintain a clean and organized work area, adhering to safety protocols at all times. * Assist in ...

Warehouse Forklift Driver PM

Salinas, CA ยท On-site

$18.25 - $21.50/hr

Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed ... goals. * Assist other forklift operators as necessary and is backup to Shipping Lead Person.

Warehouse Forklift Driver PM

Salinas, CA

$18.25 - $21.50/hr

Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed ... goals. * Assist other forklift operators as necessary and is backup to Shipping Lead Person.

Warehouse Forklift Driver PM

Salinas, CA ยท On-site

$18.25 - $21.50/hr

Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed ... goals. * Assist other forklift operators as necessary and is backup to Shipping Lead Person.

Systems Operator I

Monterey, CA ยท On-site

$29.86 - $36.54/hr

... systems and assist in operational engineering decisions based on analysis of the data; perform ... Walking up to several miles, climbing ladders, climbing machinery, accessing roofs, reaching ...

Systems Operator I

Monterey, CA ยท On-site

$29.86 - $36.54/hr

... systems and assist in operational engineering decisions based on analysis of the data; perform ... Walking up to several miles, climbing ladders, climbing machinery, accessing roofs, reaching ...

CMM operating experience required. CMM Programming capability is highly desirable and eligible for ... Operations Support: Assist with inventory labeling/counting and support packaging/shipping prep as ...

Medical Assistant

Monterey, CA ยท On-site

$19.75 - $25.25/hr

Lead Medical Assistant ESSENTIAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES ... Taking messages from answering machine in complete and accurate * Notifies RN or physician of ...

Medical Assistant

Monterey, CA

$19.75 - $25.25/hr

Lead Medical Assistant ESSENTIAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES ... Taking messages from answering machine in complete and accurate * Notifies RN or physician of ...

... operated vending machines. Uses a PC for data entry and use of appropriate systems/software ... Major Duties Greet each customer upon contact. Assist customer by listening to needs, offering ...

Be Seen First

Working knowledge of printers, copiers, scanners, and fax machines. * Excellent interpersonal and ... The success of T and H Manufacturing is determined by our success in operating as a unified team.

Maintenance Assistant

Gilroy, CA ยท On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Cleans warehouse floors, offices, break room, and restrooms by operating self-propelled floor scrubbing machinery, and by sweeping, mopping, spraying, and wiping. Follows departmental procedures and ...

Showing results 41-60

Machine Operator Assistant information

See Salinas, CA salary details

$14

$19

$24

How much do machine operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator assistant in Salinas, CA is $19.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine operator assistant?

Machine Operator Assistants support machine operators by preparing materials, monitoring equipment, and ensuring a smooth production process in manufacturing environments. Their tasks often include loading and unloading materials, cleaning machines, inspecting products for quality, and assisting with machine maintenance. They help maintain efficiency and safety in the workplace and may also document production data or report equipment issues. This role is key for keeping manufacturing lines running smoothly and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine operator assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Operator Assistant, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and the ability to use measuring tools or computer systems is often required. Reliability, effective communication, and the ability to work well in a team are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient machine operation and help maintain smooth production processes in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a machine operator assistant, and how can they be overcome?

Machine Operator Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced production environments, ensuring safety compliance, and minimizing machine downtime. To overcome these, it's important to stay attentive to operational protocols, communicate effectively with machine operators and team members, and proactively report any equipment issues. Continuous learning and on-the-job training can also help assistants rapidly build the skills necessary to troubleshoot minor problems and contribute to a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Machine Operator Assistant vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine Operator AssistantMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists in manufacturing or production settings, working alongside machine operatorsOperates machinery directly in manufacturing or industrial environments
Job ResponsibilitiesSupports machine operation, performs basic maintenance, and monitors equipmentControls and manages machinery, ensures quality, and troubleshooting

The Machine Operator Assistant primarily supports and assists the Machine Operator in daily tasks, focusing on preparation and basic maintenance. The Machine Operator takes on the responsibility of running and managing machinery independently. Both roles are essential in manufacturing, but the Machine Operator has more advanced technical duties and decision-making authority.

How to become a machine operator assistant with no experience?

To become a machine operator assistant with no experience, start by gaining basic knowledge of manufacturing processes and safety procedures through online courses or training programs. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training is provided to learn equipment operation and maintenance. Developing skills in attention to detail, manual dexterity, and understanding of tools can improve your chances of securing a position.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Salinas, CA?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Salinas, CA are:

What cities near Salinas, CA are hiring for Machine Operator Assistant jobs?

Cities near Salinas, CA with the most Machine Operator Assistant job openings:

Loader/Operator

VSS International, Inc.

Monterey, CA โ€ข On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Temporary

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description
Position at VSS International, Inc.
"OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY"
We are in need of Chip Box Equipment Operator for our VSS International, Inc . This opportunity is in Monterey County contingent upon being awarded the project.
The ideal candidate will be a safe, hardworking, team-oriented person who is ok with working outdoors on road construction crews.
General Duties
  • Safely operate front-end loaders and other assigned equipment to load trucks, feed hoppers, move materials, build stockpiles, and support paving, slurry, seal coat, chip seal, or related construction operations.
    Perform daily pre-trip and post-operation inspections, including checking fluids, tires, lights, backup alarms, brakes, attachments, and overall equipment condition.
    Load and handle aggregate, asphalt, sand, rock, emulsion-related materials, and other construction materials according to project and operational needs.
    Maintain safe work zones by staying alert to ground personnel, trucks, traffic, utilities, uneven terrain, overhead hazards, and changing jobsite conditions.
    Communicate with foremen, plant personnel, truck drivers, laborers, and equipment operators to coordinate material movement and avoid delays.
    Keep loading areas, stockpiles, access roads, and assigned equipment clean, organized, and free from avoidable hazards.
    Report equipment defects, mechanical concerns, safety hazards, incidents, or material issues to the supervisor promptly.
    Assist with general labor, cleanup, traffic control setup, equipment staging, and other construction-related duties when not operating equipment.
    Follow all DOT, OSHA, company, client, and jobsite safety requirements, including use of required personal protective equipment.
    Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Knowledge of safe heavy equipment operation, including loader controls, attachments, machine limitations, and surrounding hazards.
  • Ability to perform basic equipment inspections, routine cleaning, fueling, lubrication, and minor maintenance checks.
  • Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions, hand signals, site plans, and safety procedures.
  • Strong awareness of jobsite safety, traffic movement, pedestrians, trucks, equipment, and changing weather or ground conditions.
  • Ability to communicate professionally with supervisors, crew members, customers, inspectors, and the public.
  • Dependable attendance, punctuality, and willingness to work overtime, weekends, nights, and variable schedules as needed.
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Minimum of one year of loader or heavy equipment operating experience preferred; construction, paving, asphalt, aggregate, or materials handling experience strongly preferred.
  • Valid driver's license required; Class A or B CDL preferred but not required unless assigned duties require it.
  • Must be able to pass company-required pre-employment screening, drug testing, background checks, and any applicable physical or fit-for-duty requirements.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, and consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.