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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

lisina

NUT FORMER OPERATOR

Torrance, CA

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

Trainee assists with moving controls to cycle machine through settings, stopping machine and adjusting to positions and machine controls to allow for operating factors such as timing, and clearance ...

Aerotek

Laser Welder - 2nd Shift

Irvine, CA

$18 - $22/hr

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

MS Aerospace

Be Seen First

Grinder Operator

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Grinding Operator 2nd Shift Department/ Area: Grind Position Summary: Candidates will be ... blanks on machine and coach trainees. · Purpose: To prepare forged blank bolts into close ...

Howmet Aerospace

CNC Machinist Trainee

Fullerton, CA

$23 - $25/hr

As a CNC Trainee, you'll be partof our team located in Fullerton, CA. Key Responsibilities ... operators in deburring components and willacquire the skills to validate the 'first piece ...

LISI

NUT FORMER OPERATOR

Torrance, CA · On-site

Trainee assists with moving controls to cycle machine through settings, stopping machine and adjusting to positions and machine controls to allow for operating factors such as timing, and clearance ...

Howmet

CNC Machinist Trainee

Fullerton, CA

$23 - $25/hr

... operators in deburring components and will acquire the skills to validate the 'first piece ... Will learn to adjust machine control, including part process , Qualifications Basic Qualifications ...

Silgan

Production Management Trainee

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$70.50K - $89.90K/yr

Enforce standard operating procedures and assist with training and developing plant staff ... machinery and equipment. * One or more years of supervisory or leadership experience in a ...

Howmet Aerospace

CNC Machinist Trainee

Fullerton, CA

$23 - $25/hr

As a CNC Trainee, you'll be partof our team located in Fullerton, CA. Key Responsibilities ... operators in deburring components and willacquire the skills to validate the 'first piece ...

Howmet Aerospace

CNC Machinist Trainee

Fullerton, CA

$23 - $25/hr

As a CNC Trainee, you'll be partof our team located in Fullerton, CA. Key Responsibilities ... operators in deburring components and willacquire the skills to validate the 'first piece ...

RimePro Inc

Header Operator

Whittier, CA

$35 - $60/hr

This position is responsible for setting up and operating multi-die progressive header machines ... Train and assist junior operators or trainees on proper setup, operation, and safety procedures.

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Machine Operator Trainee information

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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.
Dry Film Operator- Trainee

Dry Film Operator- Trainee

Sierra Circuits inc.

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Sierra Circuits is a Silicon Valley-based leader in printed circuit board manufacturing and assembly, specializing in high-quality, quick-turn and complex prototypes. With over 35 years of experience, Sierra provides a seamless, end-to-end PCB solution—from design and fabrication to assembly and testing—all under one roof at its state-of-the-art facilities in Sunnyvale, California. Sierra Circuits is committed to supporting engineers and designers through extensive educational resources. The company offers free online tools such as the Stackup Designer, Impedance Calculator, Material Selector, and BOM and DFM Checkers, along with technical blogs, webinars, design guides, and its SierraConnect community forum. Sierra Circuit serves all industries including aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, and telecommunications, building PCBs to the highest industry standards, and keeping innovation at the forefront of everything we do.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Dry Film Operator Trainee is responsible for processing printed circuit boards (PCB) panels thru various dry film/lamination processes according to the travelers or as directed by Managers while following department standard operating procedures.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Check travelers for due date, material type, and special request for priority before setting up to start the process accordingly.
  • Promptly complete tasks/processes within the department and document in a timely manner.
  • Verify the different kinds of layers (inner layers, outer layers, or sublams) on the PCB panels.
  • Check film to ensure that there are no pinholes, scratches, emulsion spots, or shorts and front to back registration for any shifting.
  • Check air gap and line widths for accuracy using the 60X microscope and inspect mylar for dents and scratches.
  • Ensure that there are no resist chips on “repeat” orders.
  • Verify operations against predetermined tolerances to ensure that customer requirements are met.
  • Keep records on computer using the PCB software (ProCim) and complete NCMR form for all products that are rejected from dry film/lamination process before moving to the next step.
  • Perform weekly preventative maintenance on machines and perform house-keeping duties to maintain a clean and safe work environment.
  • Inform Managers of any potential problems.
  • Ability to stand/walk 8 + hours per day.
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High School Diploma preferred.
  • Some experience in dry film for PCB Manufacturing Company preferred
  • Ability to read and understand technical work instructions and standard operating procedures.
  • Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, protective glasses, face-shields, etc. and work within the confines of a room where concentrations of chemicals are located. Must not be allergic to common forms of rubber and plastic use for PPE.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Good computer skills and the ability to learn new skills and tasks as required, especially PCB software (ProCim)
  • Ability to follow procedures/instructions and maintain quality of products at all time.
  • Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds and stand/walk throughout the day.
  • Ability to perform at the highest level in a fast-paced environment.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here represent those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee must frequently stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms. The ability to lift 30-50 lbs., open filing cabinets, and bend, stand, or climb on step ladders as necessary.

ENVIRONMENT: Manufacturing – Comply with safety and protective equipment as required.

Hourly Rate Range: $20 to $24 per hour


What We Offer

  • Full - Time, non-exempt position
  • Excellent benefits package includes; Medical (HMO & PPO), Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts, Basic Life/ADD, Voluntary Benefits
  • Vacation, sick and paid holidays

Graveyard Shift: 10:00PM- 6:30AM Mon-Fri with Flexibility