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Machine Operator Jobs in Salinas, CA (NOW HIRING)

Perfection Machining

Be Seen First

CNC LATHE OPERATOR / PROGRAMMER

Morgan Hill, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Perfection Machining in Morgan Hill seeks a CNC Lathe Operator/Programmer to set up and operate computer numerically controlled (CNC) machinery and equipment. Perfection Machining LLC is a ...

Church Brothers Farms

12-Pallet Operator

San Juan Bautista, CA · On-site

$18 - $23.75/hr

Job Title The 12-Pallet Operator is responsible for the offloading of incoming raw product and ... Work around people, moving machinery, cold atmosphere due to refrigeration units, wet surfaces due ...

KAGOME, Inc.

Packaging Operator III

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$17.50/hr

Operations Manager, Operations Supervisor, Line lead, Case Maker Operator, Pouch Packer Operator ... Label machines, thermometers, various packaging machines, communication radios.

Kagome Inc.

Packaging Operator III

Los Banos, CA

$18 - $21.50/hr

Operations Manager, Operations Supervisor, Line lead, Case Maker Operator, Pouch Packer Operator ... Label machines, thermometers, various packaging machines, communication radios.

FullSteam

Toaster Operator

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$26/hr

Toaster Operator Location: Gilroy, CA Pay Rate: $26per hour Schedule: Monday - Friday, Any shift ... Ability to remove and reinstall machine guards and access doors. * Ability to move drums of ...

Joby Aviation

Autoclave Operator

Marina, CA · On-site

$20 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job duties include machine operations including proper loading and unloading of parts, setting up ... Follow standard operating procedures and safety guidelines to ensure a safe working environment

US Technical Ceramics, Inc.

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Green Machinist

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Monitor machine operation and report malfunctions to supervisor. * Monitor tool performance through ... Lathe Operator * Mill Operator * Micrometer * Calipers * Bridgeport * Blueprint Reading

US Technical Ceramics, Inc.

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Green Machinist

Salinas, CA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Monitor machine operation and report malfunctions to supervisor. * Monitor tool performance through ... Lathe Operator * Mill Operator * Micrometer * Calipers * Bridgeport * Blueprint Reading

US Technical Ceramics, Inc.

Be Seen First

Green Machinist

Hollister, CA · On-site

$21.25 - $29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Monitor machine operation and report malfunctions to supervisor. * Monitor tool performance through ... Lathe Operator * Mill Operator * Micrometer * Calipers * Bridgeport * Blueprint Reading

Classic Salads

Materials Forklift/Heavy Labor

CA · On-site

$18.40/hr

Communicate with data entry employees and machine operators 29. Follow directions regarding product mixes and recipes 30. Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): bump cap, hearing ...

TekSky

CNC Lathe Machinist journeyman

Morgan Hill, CA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for setting up and operating CNC LATHE machines to produce precision parts and components. This role requires a strong understanding of machining processes ...

US Technical Ceramics, Inc.

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Green Machinist - Day Shift

Morgan Hill, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Monitor machine operation and report malfunctions to supervisor. * Monitor tool performance through ... Lathe Operator * Mill Operator * Micrometer * Calipers * Bridgeport * Blueprint Reading

Urgent

US Technical Ceramics, Inc.

Be Seen First

Green Machinist - Day Shift

Morgan Hill, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Monitor machine operation and report malfunctions to supervisor. * Monitor tool performance through ... Lathe Operator * Mill Operator * Micrometer * Calipers * Bridgeport * Blueprint Reading

Urgent

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Systems Operator I

Monterey, CA · On-site

$29.86 - $36.54/hr

... operating ranges, and meter and gauge readings. Preferred Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities (KSAs ... Walking up to several miles, climbing ladders, climbing machinery, accessing roofs, reaching ...

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Systems Operator I

Monterey, CA

$29.86 - $36.54/hr

... operating ranges, and meter and gauge readings. Preferred Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities (KSAs ... Walking up to several miles, climbing ladders, climbing machinery, accessing roofs, reaching ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 18, 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 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.

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 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.

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, often with shifts that include nights and weekends.

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, follow safety protocols, and may perform quality checks during production. Proficiency with tools, attention to detail, and adherence to safety standards are essential in this role.
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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,641 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Celery Heavy Labor Harvester

Tanimura and Antle

Salinas, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Full Time Seasonal: Yes
Job Duties: The following is a job description for heavy labor harvesters working in celery. A member of a heavy labor harvest crew working in celery must be able to perform all the responsibilities and general job specifications outlined below: The employee must work as a member of a celery heavy labor harvest crew performing the following tasks in the harvesting of celery under the direction of a foreperson or supervisor. Employees shall work under close supervision of a crew leader and receive specific instructions on required tasks and results expected. Employees perform routine tasks that require a limited exercise of judgment to eventually build harvesting skills and efficiencies. Specifically, an employee:
 
  • Harvests produce by walking in assigned furrows, on top of growing beds behind or in front of a harvesting machine platform or harvesting cart, selecting size and quality of the produce to be harvested as specified by the supervisor; Bends and grasps selected produce and cuts it from its roots and or stalks using a harvesting knife; Trims the product according to specifications of supervisor; Discards produce that does not meet specified quality standards; and inserts trimmed produce meeting quality specifications into specified packaging or containers and/or places the freshly harvested produce on the table for taping/clipping by the clipper and packing by packer in the field.
  • Must not place produce on the table which does not meet the specifications set forth by the supervisor for the crop being harvested, nor leave un-harvested produce which meets such specifications. Packers will secure empty containers from designated racks, insert whatever lining might be required, proceed to fill the container with product as directed by a supervisor, and place the container on a conveyor belt or on the furrow, as required to be sealed and ready for palletizing, loading, and shipment to the cooler.
  • Can work as a Button Operator on any of the harvest machines; Responsible for establishing the speed of the harvest machine at the direction of the Foreperson, lifting or lowering the wings of the harvester, as required, and operating the control panel that allows the Button Operator to perform the above functions and in addition control the carousel speed, water supply and a kill switch to inactivate the harvest machine in an emergency. The Button Operator may also be used as a safety monitor to assist the Machine Operator to ensure safety when the machines are turning in the fields to begin a new pass and may assist the Machine Operator in opening and closing machines.
  • Moves cartons weighing from 32-66 pounds, as required.
  • Cleans-up fields, which may consist of picking up trash, discarding cartons, and any other weed or debris, etc., which will be removed from the field just before, during and after harvest. The worker will not use a short handled hoe and any weeding is in compliance with California law.
  • Stands on harvest machine platform, closes cartons, takes packed cartons off conveyor belt and seals the finished carton with tape or special locking lids. Moves sealed cartons (approximately 32-66 pounds) to the side for loading on pallets.
  • Does NOT touch conveyors or chains.
  • Lifts and carries carton box bundles (15 boxes/bundle, approximately 32 lbs.; export 20 boxes/bundle, approximately 66 lbs.) from side of harvest platform to box forming area; Removes strapping; Unfolds carton and forms into a box to be packed; Places stickers on cartons indicating quantity to be packed in cartons; Places made-up boxes on wings of harvest platform to be available for packers.
  • Lifts and carries pallets (approximately 42 lbs (T&A Pallet) - 56 lbs (Chep Pallet) from supply on side of harvesting machine and arranges the pallets on harvest platform; Takes closed cartons and arranges on pallets according to specifications of supervisor.
Location: Salinas Valley


Experience Required: No

Special Requirements: General Specifications: Employee must stand, sit, crouch, bend, reach, lift and carry items weighing up to 66 pounds in the course of performing required activities. Employees must listen to, understand, and follow instructions of Company row bosses, forepersons, supervisors and managers. Employees are expected to assist in maintaining work areas and Company property in a neat and clean condition by not littering or in any deliberate way defacing Company property. Rest and meal periods must be taken in the assigned area(s) for food safety reasons unless an off-site rest or meal period is elected by the employee. Work is performed in open fields and may involve exposure to mud, dust, wind, heat, cold, and other natural elements. Temperatures can range from 30 degrees Fahrenheit to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the period of employment. Employees should come prepared with appropriate clean clothing and footwear for the environmental and working conditions described.

Number of Hours Per Week: 40

Work Schedule (Start/End time): 6:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

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