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Machine Operator Jobs in Bakersfield, CA (NOW HIRING)

Califia Farms, LLC

UHT Operator, 2nd Shift

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

The UHT Operator (Ultra-High Temperature Operator) / Heat Treat Operator is responsible for safely operating, monitoring, and maintaining heat treatment and UHT processing equipment used in food and ...

Califia Farms, LLC

UHT Operator, 3rd Shift

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

The UHT Operator (Ultra-High Temperature Operator) / Heat Treat Operator is responsible for safely operating, monitoring, and maintaining heat treatment and UHT processing equipment used in food and ...

Legacy Staffing

Label Operator

Bakersfield, CA

$18 - $20/hr

Bottling Line / Label Operator Location: Bakersfield, CA Employment Type: Full-Time, Temp-to-Hire ... Make minor machine adjustments to support efficient operation. Material Handling & Documentation

Niagara Bottling LLC

Injection Operator

Bakersfield, CA

$23.52 - $31.16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating multiple manufacturing machines *experience may include a combination of work experience and education * Preferred Qualifications: * 4 Years - Experience in Field or similar ...

Niagara Bottling, LLC

Injection Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$23.52 - $31.16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating multiple manufacturing machines *experience may include a combination of work experience and education * Preferred Qualifications: * 4 Years - Experience in Field or similar ...

Total Western

Backhoe Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$48K - $63K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Backhoe Operator Founded in 1972, Total-Western, Inc. is a premier provider of industrial ... Experience with other construction machinery (e.g., skid steer, bulldozer, excavator). * Knowledge ...

Total-Western

Backhoe Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$46K - $61K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience with other construction machinery (e.g., skid steer, bulldozer, excavator). * Knowledge ... The Backhoe Operator will work on construction sites in various locations, often outdoors and in ...

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$34 - $39/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You must be able to maintain three points of contact when climbing on/off machinery or on ladders. Strong hand-eye-foot coordination is essential for operating hand/foot controls. You must have good ...

New

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$34 - $39/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You must be able to maintain three points of contact when climbing on/off machinery or on ladders. Strong hand-eye-foot coordination is essential for operating hand/foot controls. You must have good ...

New

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Santa Margarita, CA

$34 - $39/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You must be able to maintain three points of contact when climbing on/off machinery or on ladders. Strong hand-eye-foot coordination is essential for operating hand/foot controls. You must have good ...

New

Legacy Staffing

Batch Operator

Bakersfield, CA

$18 - $20/hr

Batch Operator Location: Bakersfield, CA Employment Type: Full-Time, Temp-to-Hire Pay Rate: $18.00 ... Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, hot liquids, humidity, and production noise.

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

Machine Operator information

See Bakersfield, CA salary details

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$24

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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 is the work of a 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 follow safety protocols, often using tools like control panels and gauges. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and sometimes certification or training in specific machinery.

How much do you get paid as a machine operator?

The average salary for a machine operator in the United States ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $25,000, while experienced operators with certifications can earn over $60,000 annually. Many machine operators work full-time shifts, often requiring knowledge of specific machinery and safety protocols.

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 a machine operator?

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.

More about Machine Operator jobs

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 job categories do people searching Machine Operator jobs in Bakersfield, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Machine Operator jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:

What cities near Bakersfield, CA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Bakersfield, CA with the most Machine Operator job openings:

Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Bakersfield, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,120 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Filler Operator, 3rd Shift

Califia Farms, LLC

Bakersfield, CA

$21 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

The Filler Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining filling equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production in accordance with company standards and regulatory requirements. This role requires strong attention to detail, adherence to safety and quality protocols, and the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues to minimize downtime.


  • Ensure production equipment is supplied with materials according to production schedules.
  • Take immediate corrective action to address food safety concerns and report issues to the Supervisor and Quality Manager/Supervisor.
  • Monitor and optimize line efficiency and product yield.
  • Verify that filler room equipment is properly set up, calibrated, and fully operational.
  • Confirm chemical concentrations meet required specifications.
  • Adhere to PPE requirements and maintain protective equipment, including smocks, in proper condition.
  • Perform line setup, startup, operation, clearance, opening, closing, and changeovers as required.
  • Maintain product quality throughout the production process.
  • Perform equipment cleaning and sanitation as needed.
  • Adjust equipment settings to maintain optimal performance.
  • Accurately complete and maintain production records in Redzone.
  • Report operational issues promptly to the Shift Lead.
  • Maintain a clean and organized workspace throughout the shift.
  • Oversee assigned production processes from startup through packaging operations.
  • Communicate effectively with the Quality team and Plant Management regarding operational or safety concerns.
  • Support the Shift Lead and Supervisor as assigned.
  • Operate equipment safely and efficiently in compliance with company standards.
  • Follow GMP, HACCP, Food Safety, SOP, and Injury & Illness Prevention Program requirements.
  • Develop and maintain professional working relationships with supervisors, leads, employees, and management.
  • Efficiently operate and perform changeovers on assigned production and packaging equipment.
  • Troubleshoot and diagnose equipment malfunctions.
  • Utilize facility maintenance request systems to submit work orders as necessary.
  • Chemical Handling: Knowledge of Titration or concentration testing for CIP Chemicals (Caustic)
  • Lockout/Tagout: Training for Safe Cleanings of Equipment
  • Troubleshooting: Ability to identify root causes of equipment failure
  • 5S experience & Kaizen to reduce waste
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

  • 1–3 years of experience in beverage or food processing preferred.
  • Ability to stand, kneel, bend, climb stairs and ladders, and lift or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Strong time management skills with the ability to multitask and manage competing priorities.
  • Ability to perform basic math, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division across all units of measure.
  • Ability to follow instructions and communicate clearly and effectively.
  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude.
  • Flexibility to work various shifts as assigned.
  • Ability to speak, read, and write English required; Spanish is a plus.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs and experience with Redzone applications preferred.
  • Ability to successfully complete and maintain all required equipment-specific training, certifications, and operational qualifications.

This position is classified as Non-Exempt (eligible for overtime). The expected hourly rate for this position is between $21.00 – $26.00 per hour based on a full-time schedule. As a 3rd shift employee, your shift differential pay is $1.00 for all hours worked during your assigned shift. Shift Differential Pay is subject to change.

The Company is committed to providing equal opportunity for employees and applicants in all aspects of the employment relationship, without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, religion or any other classification protected by law.

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