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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

pipingrock

$27.60/hr

Under the direction of the Manager/Supervisor/Lead Person, the Machine Operator Trainee is responsible for the operation of high- volume automated processing equipment. Adhered to the Standard ...

Team 360 Staffing

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Operator Trainee

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a reliable and motivated Operator Trainee to assist in the setup and ... This position supports machine operators with daily production tasks, machine preparation, material ...

Express Employment Professionals

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Skilled Machine Operators

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Finished Goods Machine Operator * Set up and operate spooling/re-spooling machines per work ... Proven progression from trainee/novice to independent operator, requiring minimal supervision.

Freeform

CNC OPERATOR (TRAINEE)

Hawthorne, CA

$25 - $30/hr

As a CNC Operator (Trainee), you'll support machining and post-processing operations while learning how advanced CNC manufacturing works in a modern, production-scale environment. --- The Work You'll ...

California Temp Services, Inc

$19 - $22/hr

CNC Operator Trainee * Some Experience in operating CNC Lathe and Mills * Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and work instructions * Inspect finished parts using measuring tools (calipers ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator - GET TO WORK ASAP

Irvine, CA · On-site

$20/hr

General Production Worker / Machine Operator (2nd Shift) - train on 1st This role supports the ... Exposure to laser welding, welding, or laser-based equipment, even at a basic or trainee level.

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Machine Operator Trainee information

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$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Operator Trainee, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and basic computer systems or programmable logic controllers (PLCs) is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help trainees excel in fast-paced production environments. These abilities are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, minimizing downtime, and maintaining workplace safety.

What are some common challenges Machine Operator Trainees face during their initial months on the job?

Machine Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as learning to operate complex machinery safely, adapting to fast-paced production environments, and mastering quality control procedures. Adjusting to shift work and understanding the importance of teamwork in a manufacturing setting can also take time. However, most employers provide hands-on training and mentorship to support new trainees as they build confidence and proficiency in their roles.

What is a Machine Operator Trainee?

A Machine Operator Trainee is an entry-level worker who learns to operate, monitor, and maintain industrial machines in a manufacturing or production environment. Under supervision, trainees are taught how to safely use machinery, follow production processes, inspect products for quality, and troubleshoot minor issues. This position is designed to provide hands-on training and practical experience, preparing individuals for more advanced machine operator roles. It often involves learning about safety protocols, equipment controls, and process documentation.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A machine operator trainee typically does not earn $10,000 a month without experience or specialized skills. High-paying roles that can reach this level often require advanced technical skills, certifications, or experience in fields like sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship. Most entry-level machine operator positions pay significantly less, and reaching such income levels generally involves career advancement or additional qualifications.

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

AspectMachine Operator TraineeMachine Operator
CredentialsMay require a high school diploma or equivalent; training provided on the jobTypically requires relevant certifications or licenses; experience preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning phaseFull operational environment, responsible for machine operation
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting and learning machine operation tasksOperating machinery independently, ensuring safety and efficiency

The main difference is that a Machine Operator Trainee is in a learning phase, often supervised and still acquiring skills, while a Machine Operator is fully responsible for operating machinery independently. Trainees focus on gaining experience, whereas operators perform the job routinely with established skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:
Machine Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Machine Operator Trainee

pipingrock

$27.60/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Our softgel operations are driven by an agile, hands-on team led by professionals with decades of industry expertise. Manufacturing, quality, and warehouse work in synchrony, holding ourselves to uncompromising standards. We operate on Lean Manufacturing principles, prioritize First Pass Quality, and actively invest in staff development. This is a small, focused group passionate about precision, accountability, and growth.

Under the direction of the Manager/Supervisor/Lead Person, the Machine Operator Trainee is responsible for the operation of high- volume automated processing equipment. Adhered to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) that are in effect assuring the quality and quantity of products produced.

Responsibilities:

  • Adheres to existing corporate policies and procedures in the production department, including Quality, Safety, cGMP’s, and Good Housekeeping guidelines.
  • Double check the ingredients name and ingredients code number of the transported materials matches the manufacturing batch record.
  • Able to efficiently operate all equipment within the assigned department.
  • Follow all batch tickets instructions and steps to produce a high-quality product. Accurately complete all paperwork, neatly and correctly.
  • Meets or exceeds daily goals set by supervisor within the assigned department.
  • Maintain, clean and orderly work area. May include cleaning machines, breakdown of machine, and cleaning areas around workstation.
  • Able to follow directions and attention to detail.
  • Displays a positive attitude, teamwork.
  • Exceptional attendance and punctuality.
  • Previous cGMP experience.

Requirements:

  • Ability to write simple correspondence in English.
  • Must be able to perform Basic math skills.
  • Prior experience operating machinery.
  • Physical ability to repetitively lift, stand, climb, bend, etc. within a manufacturing environment.
  • Be able to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated attention to quality and safety.
  • Additional duties as assigned.
  • High School diploma or general education (GED) preferred

Role’s Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to lift 50lbs.
  • Ability to work in a physically challenging environment, including bending, twisting, and standing for up to 8 hours
  • Work environment - may be exposed to powders, chemicals, and allergens (peanuts, tree nuts, milk, dairy, eggs, wheat, gluten, soy, fish, and shellfish)

Shifts:

  • 1st Shift: Monday-Friday, 7:00am-3:30pm - $23.00/hr
  • 2nd Shift: Monday-Friday, 3:00pm-11:30pm - $25.30/hr
  • 3rd Shift: Sunday-Thursday, 11:00pm-7:30am - $27.60/hr

We proudly offer: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K with Company Match, Pet insurance and more!

We reward the hard work of our team members with fun and exciting company events, Summer Picnic, Festive Packages, Holiday Celebrations, and associate referral bonuses!

Founded in 2011, Piping Rock Health Products has gone on to win Long Island’s Top Workplaces Award 6 years in a row & securing the spot as Top Supplement Manufacturing Company 2024 by Food Business Review! Supported by a group of vitamin visionaries with over 40 years of industry experience and a carefully curated team of talented associates. Piping Rock is a global vitamin and supplement manufacturer with an unwavering commitment to creating quality wellness products. We believe that family always comes first, and that the dedication of our associates is the key ingredient to our success.

We are drug free workplace, regulated by the FDA, required to follow Federal Guidelines; therefore in order to start as well as maintain employment, you must be able to successfully clear drug screening processes, which include testing for all illegal substances per Federal Guidelines.

Piping Rock Health Products, INC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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