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Machine Operator Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

California Dairies, Inc.

Relief, Vacation Person

Turlock, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Perform jobs on all shifts as requested by the production supervisor, which may include: sanitation, machine operator, churn operator, break relief, palletizing, evaporators, dryers, rework, or other ...

Manzo Machining, Inc

CNC Machinist

Atwater, CA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Make parts to specifications using a lathe, milling machine, shaper, and grinder. * Measure ... Observe operating machines/equipment to diagnose malfunctions and make adjustments or repairs.

Manzo Machining, Inc

CNC Machinist

Atwater, CA

$22 - $30/hr

Make parts to specifications using a lathe, milling machine, shaper, and grinder. * Measure ... Observe operating machines/equipment to diagnose malfunctions and make adjustments or repairs.

Mariposa County

Plant Operator I/II

Mariposa, CA

$4.87K - $6.21K/mo

Keeps logs and records of water samples and machinery operation. Ensures adherence to all health ... Plant Operator I Enrollment in certification-required education courses necessary to sit for the ...

John Sanfilippo & Son

Forklift Operator I

Gustine, CA

$18.50 - $21.75/hr

The Forklift Operator I is qualified to operate stand-up forklift (reach), sit-down and/or electric ... Operates shrink-wrap machine. * Keeps warehouse area and coolers clean and organized. Sweeps, picks ...

The Neil Jones Food Company

Packaging Operator 1

Firebaugh, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

We are looking for a seasonal Packaging Operator I to operate and troubleshooting of case former ... on machinery and reports any safety hazards to Pouch Supervisor. * Pull one retained sample per ...

Mariposa County, CA

Plant Operator I/II

Mariposa, CA · On-site

$4.87K - $6.21K/mo

Keeps logs and records of water samples and machinery operation. Ensures adherence to all health ... Plant Operator I Enrollment in certification-required education courses necessary to sit for the ...

Associated Feed & Supply

Mill Operator

Turlock, CA · On-site

Mill Operator Department: Production Location: Turlock, CA Full/Part-Time: Full- timeRegular ... Forklift operation and heavy machinery experience desired * Basic recordkeeping practices Ability ...

Teichert

Hot Plant/Crusher Operator

Winton, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $37.98/hr

Rock plant operator - Includes operating various controls within the rock plant to control the ... address, fax machine or email address, directly to Teichert employees, or to Teichert's resume ...

SUPHERB FARMS

Sanitation Operator

Turlock, CA · On-site

$21.37/hr

Under the direction of the Sanitation Supervisor, the sanitation operator is responsible for the daily cleaning and sanitizing of machinery used to produce finished goods. This is to ensure ...

Infinity Staffing

Be Seen First

Machinist

Chowchilla, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

This position is responsible for machining various pump / specialty parts using lathes, mills, files, drill presses, reamers, broaching, pneumatic presses, grinders and other various equipment.

Associated Feed and Supply Co

Mill Operator

Turlock, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Forklift operation and heavy machinery experience desired * Basic recordkeeping practices Ability to: * Perform basic computer operations using Windows, Word, Excel * Work in confined spaces and at ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Merced, CA

Machine Operator information

See Merced, CA salary details

$12

$19

$24

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Merced, CA is $19.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

More about Machine Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Merced, CA? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Merced, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Merced, CA? For Machine Operator jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
R.O. Operator-7a.m.

R.O. Operator-7a.m.

Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.

Turlock, CA • On-site

$24.55 - $30.14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Dairy Farmers Of America rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 156 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 52 rated farming

Job description

Relief for 3PM-11:30PM and 11PM-7:30AM Shifts with Rotating Days Off
General Purpose: Monitor and process whey to meet customer's specifications. Operate whey equipment in a safe, efficient and productive manner.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operate a Whey HTST Pasteurizer
  • Operate a Whey Cream Batch Pasteurizing system
  • Operate a Whey Clarifier
  • Operate a MSA-300 Separator
  • Operate and CIP Ultra Filtration units
  • Operate and CIP Reverse Osmosis units
  • Operate R.O. Polisher units
  • Operate a CIP system
  • Adjust all equipment to meet production specifications
  • Communicate with truck drivers professionally
  • Load out WPC
  • Load out Lactose
  • Perform a safe and sanitary operation
  • Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
  • Dedicate effort to safety as we expect every employee to leave work in the same condition as they arrive
  • Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
  • Exhibit the values and ethics of Dairy Farmers of America through honesty, discretion, and sound judgment
  • Adhere to all DFA Quality, Safety and GMP policies and procedures and report any nonconformity
  • Attend required training, including but not limited to, Safety, GMP, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP), and Safe Quality Foods (SQF)
  • Responsible for monitoring and taking corrective actions when necessary for a critical control point as part of the plant HACCP plan
  • Ensure that all documentation is done correctly and turned in promptly
  • The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required.

Pay
  • Competitive pay - $24.55 - $30.14 per hour based on experience
  • Rate includes $1.00 shift differential for hours worked between 6 PM and 6 AM
  • Paid Overtime

BENEFITS
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401k Employer Match
  • Life Insurance - Company Paid
  • AD&D, STD and LTD - Company Paid
  • 144 hours of Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Sick Time
  • Sign-On Bonus $1,500

Minimum Requirements:
Education and Experience
  • High School Diploma or GED required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Must be able to learn Dairy Filtration Systems within a 5 week period
  • Good computer skills
  • Good math skills
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Pasteurizer's License
  • Must be able to abide by all Safety and GMP policies
  • Must be a self-starter and work under minimum supervision
  • Must learn SAP
  • Must be able to read, write and speak English

EEO/AA/Female/Minority/Disabled/Veteran

What Dairy Farmers Of America employees say

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