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Machine Set Up Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Certified Employment Group

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CNC Machinist - Set-Up Experience Required

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Responsibilities · Perform CNC machine set-ups efficiently and accurately with minimal supervision ... · Set up and run short-run / quick-turn jobs with frequent changeovers · Machine primarily ...

MORryde

Mill & Lathe Machine Set Up

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$21.25 - $27/hr

MORryde is currently seeking a Mill and Lathe Set Up Operator to join our machining centers! The ideal candidate will be competent in operating CNC Mills and Lathes and possess the leadership skills ...

VitalPath

Machine Set-Up Operator 2nd shift

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Join VitalPath in Maplewood as a Machine Set-Up Operator! About VitalPath VitalPath is a trusted contract manufacturing partner that delivers high-quality complex catheter solutions around the world ...

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How much do machine set up jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine set up in the United States is $26.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Set Up operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Set Up operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with manufacturing equipment, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with tools like calipers, micrometers, and CNC or manual machines is typically required, along with knowledge of safety protocols. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure machines are configured accurately and efficiently, minimizing downtime and maintaining product quality.

What does a Machine Set Up worker do?

A Machine Set Up worker is responsible for preparing machinery for production or manufacturing processes. This includes installing, adjusting, and calibrating machines according to specifications, as well as testing equipment to ensure it operates correctly. They may also perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot issues to minimize downtime. Their work is crucial to ensure efficient and safe manufacturing operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Machine Set Up technicians, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Machine Set Up technicians often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, managing tight production schedules, and ensuring precise calibration for different product runs. Addressing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, familiarity with machine manuals, and effective communication with maintenance and production teams. Regular preventive maintenance and keeping thorough setup documentation can help minimize downtime and ensure smoother transitions between jobs.

What is the difference between Machine Set Up vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine Set UpMachine Operator
CredentialsTechnical certifications, training in machineryBasic operational training, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentPre-production, setup areas, often in manufacturing plantsProduction floor, operating machinery during shifts
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, industrial sectorsManufacturing, assembly lines
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding setup responsibilities, qualificationsOperational duties, daily tasks

Machine Set Up involves preparing and configuring machinery before production begins, requiring technical skills and certifications. Machine Operators focus on running and monitoring machines during production. Both roles are essential in manufacturing but differ mainly in their responsibilities and required credentials.

What states have the most Machine Set Up jobs? States with the most job openings for Machine Set Up jobs include:
Machine Set Up jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Set Up job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,803 per year, or $26.3 per hour.
CNC Machinist - Set-Up Experience Required

CNC Machinist - Set-Up Experience Required

Certified Employment Group

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

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Job description

CNC Machinist – Set-Up Experience Required

Schedule: M-F full- or part-time; 7am start (some flexibility available up to 8am start)

Role: Contract-to-perm for right fit

Pay: $30-40/hour

Overview

We are seeking an experienced CNC Set-Up Machinist / Programmer to join a fast-paced, high-production machine shop environment. This role is ideal for a hands-on machinist who can quickly step into a busy operation with minimal training and confidently handle machine set-ups, part measurements, and troubleshooting. Strong set-up experience is essential; programming experience is highly preferred but not required.

The ideal candidate will be comfortable working with short-run, quick-turn projects across a mix of horizontal and primarily vertical CNC machines, and must be able to efficiently set up existing programs and keep production moving.

Responsibilities

· Perform CNC machine set-ups efficiently and accurately with minimal supervision

· Read and work from existing programs, making adjustments as needed for production

· Program parts using Mastercam (preferred, not required)

· Work with Fanuc Controls in a production machining environment

· Set up and run short-run / quick-turn jobs with frequent changeovers

· Machine primarily aluminum and stainless-steel components

· Inspect and measure finished parts using calipers, micrometers, and other precision measuring tools

· Troubleshoot machining and set-up issues to maintain workflow and production timelines

· Maintain quality standards and ensure parts meet specifications

· Work collaboratively in a fast-paced shop environment where adaptability and urgency are important

Qualifications

· Strong CNC set-up experience required

· Experience with Fanuc Controls required

· Programming experience preferred, particularly with Mastercam

· Ability to quickly set up existing programs and keep machines running efficiently

· Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling, and offsets

· Experience machining aluminum and stainless-steel materials

· Ability to accurately measure and inspect parts using precision measuring instruments

· Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-volume manufacturing environment

· Reliable work history with demonstrated job stability preferred

· Ability to work independently with little to no training

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About Certified Employment Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Certified Employment Group started in San Francisco in 1963. Our cornerstone mission was, and remains, to provide ethical, caring service to each of our clients and employees. These values mean using technology to create efficiencies for our clients, expand our service offerings and enhance the level of service we can provide. As Northern California businesses have prospered, Certified has responded by opening branches to serve high-growth areas. We have expanded our services to include on-site management for major accounts, developing a web based interface and opening specialized divisions in Legal, Renewable Energy and Accounting. Certified remains independently owned, responsive, flexible and wholly committed to our original values. We believe this is the reason for our success. Industry rankings continually place Certified in the top ten percent based on sales!

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Emeryville, CA, US

Year founded

1963

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