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Machine Operator Jobs in Bakersfield, CA (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator Machine Operators play a vital role in the manufacturing and packaging of products used in industrial, agricultural, and consumer applications. This position involves operating ...

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Experience operating production machinery such as dryers, mills, conveyors, bagging lines, palletizers, and filler machines. * Ability to perform general labor tasks in a manufacturing or industrial ...

Role Overview The Pipe Yard Machine Operator will be responsible for operating and maintaining various pipe machining equipment to produce high-quality precision components. Your expertise in ...

Sleever Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Responsible for operating equipment for production lines. Serve as a contact for plant leadership ... machine settings for maximum efficiency. • Maintain factory OEE standards. • Fill out daily ...

Sleever Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Overview Responsible for operating equipment for production lines. Serve as a contact for plant ... machine settings for maximum efficiency. • Maintain factory OEE standards. • Fill out daily ...

Waterjet Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

We are searching for an experienced waterjet operator with some CAD knowledge to be a part of our ... Read job specifications to determine and maintain machine adjustments and material requirements.

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Machine Operator information

See Bakersfield, CA salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Bakersfield, CA is $18.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $20.14 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Bakersfield, CA? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Bakersfield, CA? For Machine Operator jobs in Bakersfield, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Bakersfield, CA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Bakersfield, CA with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Bakersfield, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,120 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Aerotek

Bakersfield, CA

$20/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Machine Operator

Job Description

Machine Operators play a vital role in the manufacturing and packaging of products used in industrial, agricultural, and consumer applications. This position involves operating production equipment, monitoring product quality, and maintaining a safe and efficient work environment. The ideal candidate is reliable, safety-focused, and comfortable working in a fast-paced industrial setting.

Responsibilities

  • Operate, monitor, and adjust production machinery such as dryers, mills, conveyors, bagging lines, and palletizers.
  • Load raw materials, including clay, additives, and packaging materials, into equipment as required.
  • Ensure continuous flow of product through the production process.
  • Perform routine equipment checks and report mechanical issues to maintenance.
  • Inspect products for proper size, moisture content, weight, and packaging accuracy.
  • Conduct basic quality tests and document results according to company standards.
  • Remove defective product from the line and notify supervisors of recurring issues.

Essential Skills

  • Experience in machine operation and production environments.
  • Ability to load and manage production materials efficiently.
  • Proficiency in inspecting products and performing quality tests.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience with filler machines is an advantage.
  • General labor skills in a manufacturing setting.

Why Work Here?

Join a company that values safety, reliability, and efficiency. Work in a fast-paced industrial environment where your skills and contributions are recognized and appreciated.

Work Environment

This position requires working in an industrial setting with a focus on safety and efficiency. The work involves operating various types of machinery and ensuring the continuous flow of production materials.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Bakersfield, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Bakersfield,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 5, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.