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Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730 Pay Rate: $19/hour on W2 Shift: 2nd Shift - 2:30 PM to 11:00 PM Shift Premium: $1.00/hour Work Environment: * Climate-controlled facility

Machine Operator

Riverside, CA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

Description: The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining production machinery to ensure efficient and safe manufacturing operations. This position requires ...

Machine Operator Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA Duration: 7 months (extendable) Shift: 2nd Shift (2:30 PM - 11:00 PM) + $1.00 shift differential XXXX: $19/hr on W2 Summary: The Machine Operator ...

Machine Operator

Fremont, CA ยท On-site

$20.25 - $24/hr

Overview Ichor Systems has an immediate opening for a Temporary Machine Operator , located in Fremont, CA. Reporting to the Director, Program Management, the Machine Operator will perform general ...

Machine Operator

Compton, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Machine Operator Position at Florence Filter Florence Filter is seeking a dedicated Machine Operator to join our team. We are looking for individuals with experience in machinery operation and a ...

We are seeking a Machine Operator with a high- end hardwood flooring manufacturer that offers room for growth. In this position, the Machine Operator will be crossed trained in every department from ...

Machine Operator

Lodi, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Machine Operator Location: 1831 S Stockton St, Lodi, CA 95240 Pay Rate: $20.80/hour (W-2) Shift: 1st Shift Type: Contract Position Overview Seeking a Machine Operator (Rheon - Case Packer/Packaging ...

Machine Operator Location: San Marcos, CA 92078 Schedule: Monday - Friday, 2nd Shift Shift Options: 2:00 PM - 10:30 PM or 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM Pay: $18.38 per hour, with potential overtime We are ...

We are seeking a Machine Operator with a high- end hardwood flooring manufacturer that offers room for growth. In this position, the Machine Operator will be crossed trained in every department from ...

Machine Operator

San Jose, CA

$20 - $23.75/hr

As a Machine Operator, you will be operating Amada laser and NC combo machinery and equipment, following all safety guidelines and job specifications to ensure projects are completed both safely and ...

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$22.50/hr

Machine Operator Santa Rosa, CA Star Staffing is currently recruiting for a Machine Operator Associate. This position is responsible to Operate one or more pieces of machinery in each department.

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Machine Operator

City Of Industry, CA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator maintains operations in the production of customer product to be shipped. The Machine Operator will operate production equipment, monitor its operation, inspect the product ...

Machine Operator

San Jose, CA

$20 - $23.75/hr

As a Machine Operator, you will be operating Amada laser and NC combo machinery and equipment, following all safety guidelines and job specifications to ensure projects are completed both safely and ...

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Machine Operator

City Of Industry, CA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator maintains operations in the production of customer product to be shipped. The Machine Operator will operate production equipment, monitor its operation, inspect the product ...

Machine Operator

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for helping provide safe, efficient and reliable product and service delivery to customers, and identifying opportunities to improve service delivery. The Machine ...

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Job Code: 82140314 The Machine Operator is responsible for helping provide safe, efficient and reliable product and service delivery to customers, and identifying opportunities to improve service ...

Machine Operator

Santa Clarita, CA

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Machine Operator Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply store during the California Gold Rush and eventually assisted in the birth of ...

Machine Operator

Santa Clarita, CA ยท On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Machine Operator Who are we? Founded in 1849, Ducommun is the oldest company in California. Starting as a hardware supply store during the California Gold Rush and eventually assisted in the birth of ...

Now Hiring Machine Operators and Production Workers! Are you looking to contribute to a large, productive team? Our plastics thermoforming team is now seeking Machine Operators, Quality Inspectors ...

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Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator 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 some common challenges faced by machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Machine operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and meeting production deadlines. Addressing these issues usually involves diligent machine maintenance, following safety protocols, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Many companies provide ongoing training to help operators stay up to date with new machinery and processes, fostering a supportive environment for troubleshooting and skill development.

What is the difference between Machine Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectMachine OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, production linesConstruction sites, mining, heavy machinery operation
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, assemblyConstruction, mining, transportation
Job FocusOperating specific machinery like presses, lathes, or CNC machinesOperating heavy equipment like bulldozers, cranes, or excavators

While both roles involve operating machinery, Machine Operators typically work with manufacturing equipment in factories, focusing on production machinery. Equipment Operators usually handle heavy construction or earth-moving equipment in outdoor environments. The skills and certifications often overlap, but the work settings and machinery types differ significantly.

What are machine operators?

Machine operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery used in manufacturing or production processes. They ensure equipment runs efficiently and safely, monitor machine output, and perform routine inspections or minor repairs as needed. Machine operators often work with specialized equipment and are trained to follow safety protocols and quality standards. Their role is essential for keeping production lines running smoothly and meeting production targets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or CNC machinery are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators quickly address issues and maintain productivity. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient machine operation and minimizing production downtime.

What Do Machine Operators Do?

Machine operators are skilled in operating machinery, often specializing in one type of machinery or industry to become an expert. Machine operators also have a general skillset, knowing how to operate a wide range of industrial machinery. Since there are numerous industries and sectors that use a multitude of machinery, there is always room to learn more.

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 jobs? Cities in California with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Pacer Group

Rancho Cucamonga, CA โ€ข On-site

$19/hr

Contractor

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Machine Operator
Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730

Pay Rate: $19/hour on W2
Shift: 2nd Shift โ€“ 2:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Shift Premium: $1.00/hour

Work Environment:

  • Climate-controlled facility
  • Environment may become warm during summer due to heat generated by machines

Experience Required: Previous machine operating experience is not required but preferred

Job Overview

The Machine Operator is responsible for supporting safe, efficient, and reliable production operations. This role involves operating equipment, performing basic maintenance activities, and ensuring equipment and services are delivered according to operational requirements while maintaining safety and quality standards.

Machines Used in This Role:
The Machine Operator will mainly operate press machines used for elastomer parts, including Compression, Transfer, and Injection Molding presses. This role may also involve working with Sandblasting equipment and Punch Press machines for finishing and shaping parts.

Key Responsibilities

  • Participate in pre-job and toolbox meetings with team members.
  • Operate machines and equipment according to standard procedures and safety guidelines.
  • Perform basic maintenance activities for assigned equipment and work areas.
  • Maintain equipment and report any issues, malfunctions, or deviations from normal operation.
  • Ensure equipment is delivered on time according to operational demands.
  • Assist in maintaining shop and field equipment.
  • Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and service delivery.
  • Participate in failure investigations and troubleshooting when required.
  • Apply manufacturing system principles and tools to support continuous improvement initiatives.