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Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bay Cities Metal Products

Machine Operator

Gardena, CA · On-site

$18.31/hr

We are looking for a machine operator to join our 3rd shift team in Gardena, CA. The Machine Operator plays a critical role in the operation and maintenance of machinery in our sheet metal ...

Bay Cities Tin Shop Inc

Machine Operator

Gardena, CA

$18.31/hr

The Machine Operator plays a critical role in the operation and maintenance of machinery in our sheet metal manufacturing plant. This position is responsible for ensuring smooth production operations ...

Ventura Foods

Machine Operator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$18.10 - $18.40/hr

Operating in a safe manner. * Read job specifications to determine machine adjustments and material requirements. * Communicate daily with Team Leader or Shift Supervisor on any changes or issues ...

Ventura Foods

Machine Operator

Irvine, CA

$18.25 - $21.50/hr

Operating in a safe manner. * Read job specifications to determine machine adjustments and material requirements. * Communicate daily with Team Leader or Shift Supervisor on any changes or issues ...

Marmon

Machine Operator

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Press Operator, Machine Operator, Maker/Packer. Responsibilities * Set up machines (calibration, cleaning etc.) to start a production cycle * Control and adjust machine settings (e.g. speed) * Feed ...

Pamarco

Machine Operator

La Palma, CA

$17.75 - $21/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring production equipment to ensure efficient manufacturing, high product quality, and minimal downtime. This role requires attention to ...

Bay Cities Metal Products

Machine Operator

Gardena, CA · On-site

$18.31/hr

We are looking for a machine operator to join our 3rd shift team in Gardena, CA. The Machine Operator plays a critical role in the operation and maintenance of machinery in our sheet metal ...

mul

Machine Operator

North Highlands, CA

$18 - $25/hr

A Machine Operator in print and packaging sets up, adjusts, and runs bindery and flow wrapper equipment. They convert flat printed sheets into finished books and wrap goods in continuous film.

Bay Cities Metal Products

Machine Operator

Gardena, CA · On-site

$18.06/hr

We are looking for a machine operator to join our 2nd shift team in Gardena, CA. The Machine Operator plays a critical role in the operation and maintenance of machinery in our sheet metal ...

Bay Cities Tin Shop Inc

Machine Operator

Gardena, CA

$18.06/hr

The Machine Operator plays a critical role in the operation and maintenance of machinery in our sheet metal manufacturing plant. This position is responsible for ensuring smooth production operations ...

Bay Cities Metal Products

Machine Operator

Gardena, CA · On-site

$18.06/hr

We are looking for a machine operator to join our 2nd shift team in Gardena, CA. The Machine Operator plays a critical role in the operation and maintenance of machinery in our sheet metal ...

Pamarco Global Graphics, Inc.

Machine Operator

La Palma, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring production equipment to ensure efficient manufacturing, high product quality, and minimal downtime. This role requires attention to ...

Altium Packaging LLC

Machine Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: • Demonstrates safe work practices ...

Altium Packaging LLC

Machine Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: • Demonstrates safe work practices ...

STANDARD ELECTRIC

Machine Operator

Jurupa Valley, CA

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Function: The Machine operator is responsible for all aspects of Operating different types of Machines, Chop saw, Band Saw, bending board, Coupling, Reducing & Belling machine. Duties ...

Altium Packaging LLC

Machine Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: • Demonstrates safe work practices ...

Altium Packaging LLC

Machine Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator is also responsible for following our company's Good Manufacturing Practices. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following: • Demonstrates safe work practices ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in California

Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

While most machine operator roles do not reach $500,000 annually, high-level positions in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or executive management can exceed this income level. Achieving such earnings typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, certifications, and often leadership responsibilities or ownership stakes.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $3,000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, high-level consultants, and skilled trades like offshore drilling or certain construction projects. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, certifications, or working in high-demand industries with long hours or high risk.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

The average salary for a machine operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled operators with certifications or experience working with specialized machinery may earn higher wages, and some positions offer shift differentials or overtime pay.

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 is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator roles are often found in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where advanced skills and certifications are required. These positions may offer higher salaries due to the technical expertise, safety requirements, and experience needed, with some earning over $70,000 annually depending on location and industry.

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 is the work of machine operator?

A machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining industrial machinery to produce goods or components. They monitor equipment for proper functioning, perform quality checks, and troubleshoot issues as needed, often following safety protocols and using tools like control panels or gauges.
More about Machine Operator jobs
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 are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in California? For Machine Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for 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:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in CA? For Machine Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Bay Cities Metal Products

Gardena, CA • On-site

$18.31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description:

We are looking for a machine operator to join our 3rd shift team in Gardena, CA. The Machine Operator plays a critical role in the operation and maintenance of machinery in our sheet metal manufacturing plant. This position is responsible for ensuring smooth production operations across a range of metal products, maintaining product quality, and adhering to safety standards.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Operate various metalworking machinery such as presses, shears, and roll formers.
  • Set up equipment for production runs and make necessary adjustments to ensure optimal performance.
  • Monitor machine operations and production processes to meet quality and quantity targets.
  • Perform quality control checks on finished products to ensure adherence to specifications.
  • Conduct routine maintenance and troubleshooting of machines to prevent downtime.
  • Follow all safety guidelines and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Maintain accurate records of production activities, including materials used and machine performance.
  • Accurately use scanners to issue and complete work ticket reports.
  • Assist with receiving, inspecting, and organizing materials.
  • Collaborate with team members and supervisors to ensure efficient production processes.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives for safety, quality, and productivity.
Requirements:

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Previous experience operating machinery in a manufacturing or metalworking environment preferred.
  • Forklift operation experience preferred, but not required.

Skills and Competencies:

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and production orders.
  • Familiarity with safety standards and best practices in a manufacturing environment.
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills.

Work Environment:

This position operates in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, dust, and varying temperatures. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required and provided.


Physical Demands:

The role requires the ability to handle various physical demands, including:

  • Regularly lift, push, or pull materials, which may occasionally exceed 50 lbs.
  • Standing for extended periods.
  • Frequent bending, twisting, kneeling, and operating heavy machinery.
  • Repetitive tasks, including machine operation and quality inspections.
  • Ability to work in varying temperatures within the production facility.

Compensation:

This position is non-exempt and complies with California's wage and hour laws. Compensation for this role is $18.31 per hour.


Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision)
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 10 Paid Holidays

Schedule:

  • Sunday–Thursday: 9:00pm to 5:30 am

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Bay Cities Metal Products is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees and applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by California or federal law.


At-Will Employment Disclaimer:

Employment with Bay Cities Metal Products is at-will, meaning either the employee or the company may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with California law.