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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vantedge Medical

Hardware Operator I

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Hardware Operator I can set up and operate machines and HW jobs without the close supervision needed by the Hardware operator Trainee. Responsibilities * Installs Press-fit and other types of ...

Vantedge Medical - VDB

Hardware Operator I

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Hardware Operator I can set up and operate machines and HW jobs without the close supervision needed by the Hardware operator Trainee. Responsibilities * Installs Press-fit and other types of ...

MS Aerospace

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 ...

Vantedge

Hardware Operator I

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Hardware Operator I can set up and operate machines and HW jobs without the close supervision needed by the Hardware operator Trainee. Responsibilities * Installs Press-fit and other types of ...

LISI

PRODUCTION MACHINE TRAINEE (B SHIFT)

Torrance, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $27.75/hr

Production Machine Trainee position must maintain the expected level of competency for production ... operating procedures always. • Required to bring any known or suspected nonconformance for all ...

Rio Tinto

Mine Operator D (Trainee)

Boron, CA · On-site

$29/hr

Mine Operations Operator D Opportunity to develop your career and work for a global company ... Experience with Forklifts, industrial machinery, dryers and agitated tanks * Some technical ...

Rio Tinto

Mine Operator D (Trainee)

Boron, CA · On-site

$29/hr

Mine Operations Operator D * Opportunity to develop your career and work for a global company ... Experience with Forklifts, industrial machinery, dryers and agitated tanks * Some technical ...

California Temp Services, Inc

$20/hr

CNC Machinist Trainee - Mill & Lathe Location: San Fernando Valley, CA Pay Rate: $20.00/hour Job ... at least basic familiarity with operating or working around mill and lathe machines.

Vantedge Medical

Deburr Operator II

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Upon request, provides direction and/or training to Deburr Operator Trainees and Deburr Operator I Requirements: * Minimum 6 months experience in sheet metal or machining deburr or a closely related ...

Vantedge

Deburr Operator II

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Upon request, provides direction and/or training to Deburr Operator Trainees and Deburr Operator I Requirements * Minimum 6 months experience in sheet metal or machining deburr or a closely related ...

Vantedge Medical - VDB

Deburr Operator II

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Upon request, provides direction and/or training to Deburr Operator Trainees and Deburr Operator I Requirements * Minimum 6 months experience in sheet metal or machining deburr or a closely related ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Trainee JobsMachine Operator Trainee Jobs in California

Machine Operator Trainee information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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?

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 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.

How to become a machine operator trainee with no experience?

To become a machine operator trainee with no experience, focus on gaining basic technical skills through vocational training or community college courses, and highlight your willingness to learn and work in a manufacturing environment. Some employers offer on-the-job training for entry-level candidates, so applying to companies that provide training programs can also be effective.

How to get started as a machine operator trainee?

To start as a machine operator trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic technical skills. Employers often provide on-the-job training, but having familiarity with machinery, safety protocols, and the ability to follow instructions can be beneficial. Some positions may require certifications in equipment operation or safety standards.

What do machine operator trainees do?

Machine operator trainees learn to operate and monitor manufacturing equipment, such as presses, lathes, or conveyor systems. They gain skills in safety procedures, quality control, and troubleshooting under supervision to prepare for full-time roles as machine operators.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Machine Adjuster Trainee 3rd

Ontario, CA

Marketing.com
Marketing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Marketing.comexternal

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

COMPANY
As part of the Marketing.com family, one of the nation’s premier print and digital marketing groups, we now have an international network, with expanded capabilities and more than 30 production facilities in the US and Canada (and growing!).
We are growing at warp speed and are adding to our team – from our sales office and shop floor locations to our remote online team members. We are an upbeat, diverse, creative, and passionate crew who are always looking to discover and implement fresh, innovative ideas and make some pretty amazing things.
JOB SUMMARY
The Offline Adjuster is responsible for making proper size changes and adjustments to all assigned machines in accordance with estimated change times. At the start of the shift, inspect all orders processed on machine during the previous shift for correctness of folding, gumming, printing, count and packaging; obtain approval from lead adjuster or supervisor on start-up of new orders.
The hourly wage for this position is $18.
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Good communication skills, i.e. ability to work effectively with coworkers and communicate with all levels of management
  • Make proper size changes and adjustments to all assigned machines in accordance with estimated change times; note any delays on work order.
  • Continuously monitor all assigned machines and performance of operators to ensure quality and run speed standards are being met.
  • Provide training and assistance to coworkers, including other adjusters.
  • Ensure all change parts are cleaned and returned to parts cage or other assigned areas at completion of order.
  • Return ink, skids, cut blanks, etc. to their assigned areas upon completion of order.
  • Review condition of all panel cutting dies with lead adjuster or supervisor once they are removed from machines; return dies to parts cage to be returned to inventory or sent out for reconditioning.
  • Ensure all check sheets, time reports, and other paperwork is filled out correctly and completely.
  • Relay any special instructions or important information pertaining to machine performance to next shift upon their arrival.
  • Monitor machine shut downs where applicable to ensure proper wash up of machines at end of shift; ensure work area is clean..
  • May act as machine operator to cover breaks or meal periods.
  • Willingness to work overtime as needed.
  • Other duties and assignments as required.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • H.S. diploma or equivalent
  • 2+ years of experience as a Machine Adjuster working with envelope machines
Preferred Skills
  • High degree of mechanical aptitude and previous assembly/production experience required.
  • Previous printing experience preferred but not required.
  • Excellent mechanical and troubleshooting skills
Our Company offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package including but not limited to medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short amp; long-term disability, 401k, PTO, and Company-paid holidays.
We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

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