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Machine Operator Jobs in Salinas, CA (NOW HIRING)

CRH

Machine Operator

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Machine Operator Architectural Products Group Gilroy, California, United States Job ID: 525294 Oldcastle, a CRH company, is reinventing what's possible in building solutions. We are the leading ...

CRH

Machine Operator

San Martin, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Machine Operator Architectural Products Group San Martin, California, United States Job ID: 522526 Oldcastle, a CRH company, is reinventing what's possible in building solutions. We are the leading ...

CRH

Machine Operator

Gilroy, CA

$24 - $26/hr

Perform additional duties as assigned by the Plant Manager, Supervisor, and Lead Machine Operator * Willing and able to cross-train on other aspects of the production process * Other duties may be ...

CRH

Machine Operator

San Martin, CA

$24 - $26/hr

Perform additional duties as assigned by the Plant Manager, Supervisor, and Lead Machine Operator * Willing and able to cross-train on other aspects of the production process * Other duties may be ...

Fresh Express

Machine Operator - Night Shift

Salinas, CA · On-site

$23.02/hr

The Machine Operator should be able to independently operate identified/assigned packaging machines installed at the site. Duties and Responsibilities: * Regular and reliable attendance is an ...

Joby Aviation

CNC Machine Operator- All Shifts

Marina, CA · On-site

$23 - $37/hr

Provide feedback upstream on setup, machining strategy, order of operations, tool selection, speed/feed parameters, etc. * Provide feedback on how to maintain and improve part quality * Assist team ...

Joby Aviation

CNC Machine Operator- All Shifts

Marina, CA

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Provide feedback upstream on setup, machining strategy, order of operations, tool selection, speed/feed parameters, etc. * Provide feedback on how to maintain and improve part quality * Assist team ...

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All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Jobs in Salinas, CA

Machine Operator information

See Salinas, CA salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator in Salinas, CA is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $20.91 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 Salinas, CA? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Salinas, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator jobs in Salinas, CA? For Machine Operator jobs in Salinas, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Salinas, CA are hiring for Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Salinas, CA with the most Machine Operator job openings:
Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator job openings in Salinas, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,641 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

CRH

Gilroy, CA • On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Machine Operator
Architectural Products Group
Gilroy, California, United States
Job ID: 525294
Oldcastle, a CRH company, is reinventing what's possible in building solutions. We are the leading provider of innovative outdoor living products and utility infrastructure solutions for the water, energy, and communications markets throughout North America. We're a trusted and strategic partner to engineers, contractors, distributors, specifiers, retailers, and homeowners alike as the manufacturer of precast concrete, polymer concrete, and plastic infrastructure products. Our portfolio of brands includes Oldcastle APG, Oldcastle Infrastructure, Belgard® hardscape, Echelon® Masonry, RDI® railing, Catalyst™ Fence Solutions, Sakrete® packaged concrete, Amerimix® mortar, Pebble Technology International® pool finishes, and Techniseal® sands and sealant technologies.
Job Summary
Employee works under the general supervision of the Production Supervisor or Plant Manager on routine duties following standard policies and procedures. Refers problems and questions to the Production Supervisor or Plant Manager.
Job Responsibilities
  • Operate and maintain concrete handling (Tiger) equipment safely and efficiently
  • Inspect the quality of products according to standards, and adjust settings as necessary
  • Detect, troubleshoot, and report any equipment malfunctions and quality issues to Plant Supervisor
  • Assist in maintaining accurate production flow and reporting
  • Record and report quality data; moisture, density, height, material consumption
  • Update communication boards and participate in shift huddle debriefs
  • Inspect and prepare molds
  • Perform machine clean-up, set-up, and other functions associated with product changes
  • Execute Daily and Business fundamentals
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by the Plant Manager, Supervisor, and Lead Machine Operator
  • Willing and able to cross-train on other aspects of the production process
  • Other duties may be assigned as needed

Job Requirements
  • Manufacturing/industrial environment experience preferred
  • Tiger/Columbia/Rekers/Masa/Hess/Besser/ equipment preferred
  • At least 3 years of experience operating similar equipment
  • High school diploma or GED, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
  • Ability to read and comprehend documents such as safety procedures, operating and maintenance instructions
  • Physical requirements include lifting up to 75 lbs., extended standing, walking, sitting, bending, climbing, working inside and outside, and use of fall protection equipment
  • Able to perform job tasks in dusty, hot and/or cold working conditions
  • Must wear company provided personal protective equipment - earplugs, hard hat, safety boots/shoes, and protective glasses. Candidates must provide their own safety boots/shoes upon hire and will be eligible to participate in Safety Boots/Shoe Reimbursement Program after 30 days of employment

Compensation
  • $24 - $26 per hour
  • 401(k) plan / group retirement savings program
  • Short-term and long-term disability benefits
  • Life insurance
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays

What CRH Offers You
  • Highly competitive base pay
  • Comprehensive medical, dental and disability benefits programs
  • Group retirement savings program
  • Health and wellness programs
  • An inclusive culture that values opportunity for growth, development, and internal promotion

About CRH
CRH has a long and proud heritage. We are a collection of hundreds of family businesses, regional companies and large enterprises that together form the CRH family. CRH operates in a decentralized, diversified structure that allows you to work in a small company environment while having the career opportunities of a large international organization.
If you're up for a rewarding challenge, we invite you to take the first step and apply today! Once you click apply now, you will be brought to our official employment application. Please complete your online profile and it will be sent to the hiring manager. Our system allows you to view and track your status 24 hours a day. Thank you for your interest!
Oldcastle APG, a CRH Company, is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.
EOE/Vet/Disability
CRH is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.
AI tools may be used in certain stages of the employment lifecycle, such as candidate review; however, all final employment decisions will be made by a person.

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