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Machine Setup Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a skilled Machine Setup Operator to configure and operate complex fabrication equipment supporting the production of professional coffee brewers. The ideal candidate has experience ...

CNC Mill 5 Axis Setup

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$25.75 - $34.25/hr

Non-Exempt Position Summary The CNC Mill 5-Axis Setup/Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining 5-axis CNC milling machines to produce complex precision components according ...

CNC Mill 5 Axis Setup

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$25.75 - $34.25/hr

Non-Exempt Position Summary The CNC Mill 5-Axis Setup/Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining 5-axis CNC milling machines to produce complex precision components according ...

CNC Mill 5 Axis Setup

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$25.75 - $34.25/hr

Non-Exempt Position Summary The CNC Mill 5-Axis Setup/Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining 5-axis CNC milling machines to produce complex precision components according ...

Machine Operator

Huntington Beach, CA ยท On-site

$20.25 - $23.50/hr

We are hiring Machine Operators and Conversion Operators for a manufacturing partner in Huntington ... Key Responsibilities Machine Setup รขย€ย” Set up equipment according to production orders and ...

Punch Press Setup/Operator

Oxnard, CA ยท On-site

$19.03 - $24.91/hr

Additionally, training staff and ensuring machinery operates efficiently will be key aspects of ... To excel as a Punch Press Setup/Operator at PTI Technologies, a strong combination of analytical ...

Punch Press Setup/Operator

Oxnard, CA ยท On-site

$19.03 - $24.91/hr

Additionally, training staff and ensuring machinery operates efficiently will be key aspects of ... To excel as a Punch Press Setup/Operator at PTI Technologies, a strong combination of analytical ...

Punch Press Setup/Operator

Oxnard, CA

$18.75 - $23.25/hr

Additionally, training staff and ensuring machinery operates efficiently will be key aspects of ... To excel as a Punch Press Setup/Operator at PTI Technologies, a strong combination of analytical ...

We are seeking a skilled Machine Setup Operator to configure and operate complex fabrication equipment supporting the production of professional coffee brewers. The ideal candidate has experience ...

CNC Setup/Machinist

Orange, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

CNC Machinist (Setup & Operator) Grow your skills. Work on precision parts. Be part of a team that takes pride in what they build. We're looking for a motivated CNC Milling Machinist who wants more ...

CNC Setup Operator -- 3rd Shift Location: Santa Ana, CA Shift: 3rd Shift | 9:00 PM - 5:30 AM Pay ... You'll work with CNC mills, lathes, manual machines, and HAAS equipment while producing precision ...

CNC Setup/Machinist

Orange, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

CNC Machinist (Setup & Operator) Grow your skills. Work on precision parts. Be part of a team that takes pride in what they build. We're looking for a motivated CNC Milling Machinist who wants more ...

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CNC Lathe Setup / Operator

Corona, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $35/hr

CNC Mill or Lathe setup operator Must have 5 yrs. Exp. in the aerospace industry operating CNC ... are a diverse manufacturing company with focus on complex machining, and production of "buy ...

CNC Setup Operator -- 3rd Shift Location: Santa Ana, CA Shift: 3rd Shift | 9:00 PM - 5:30 AM Pay ... You'll work with CNC mills, lathes, manual machines, and HAAS equipment while producing precision ...

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CNC Mill Setup / Operator

Corona, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $35/hr

CNC Mill setup / operator Must have 5 yrs. Exp. in the aerospace industry setting up and operating ... are a diverse manufacturing company with focus on complex machining, and production of "buy ...

Machine Operator

Huntington Beach, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $21.25/hr

Wear a respirator when performing machine setup. * Work collaboratively with supervisors and team ... Experience operating extrusion or other industrial production equipment is a plus. * Mechanical ...

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$21.91/hr

The employee in this position has been cross trained and is fluent in setup, operation, and troubleshooting the various equipment to produce a quality parts. The advanced machine operator can ...

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$21.91/hr

The employee in this position has been cross trained and is fluent in setup, operation, and troubleshooting the various equipment to produce a quality parts. The advanced machine operator can ...

Be Seen First

CNC Setup Operator / CNC Machinist - Haas 3-Axis & 5-Axis Mills Anaheim/Fullerton Area | 2nd Shift | M-Th 2pm to 12:30am | Four/Ten Schedule ABC Sheet Metal is seeking an experienced CNC Setup ...

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$21.91/hr

The employee in this position has been cross trained and is fluent in setup, operation, and troubleshooting the various equipment to produce a quality parts. The advanced machine operator can ...

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Machine Setup Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$20

$27

How much do machine setup operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine setup operator in California is $20.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Machine Setup Operator vs Machine Maintenance Technician?

AspectMachine Setup OperatorMachine Maintenance Technician
Primary RolePrepares and sets up machinery for production runsPerforms repairs and preventive maintenance on machinery
Skills & CertificationsBasic mechanical skills, equipment operation certificationsMechanical/electrical skills, maintenance certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floor, focused on setup tasksManufacturing or maintenance shop, focused on repairs
Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing plantsOften found in factories requiring regular equipment upkeep

The Machine Setup Operator primarily prepares machines for production, focusing on setup and calibration. In contrast, the Machine Maintenance Technician handles repairs and preventive maintenance to ensure machinery runs smoothly. While both roles require mechanical skills and are vital in manufacturing, their daily tasks and certifications differ, with setup operators focusing on preparation and technicians on maintenance.

What are Machine Setup Operators?

Machine Setup Operators are skilled workers responsible for preparing, calibrating, and adjusting machinery used in manufacturing or production processes. Their duties typically include installing machine parts, setting up equipment according to specifications, performing test runs, and ensuring machines operate efficiently and safely. They also troubleshoot issues, make minor repairs, and may assist in maintaining production quality by monitoring machine output. This role is essential in keeping production lines running smoothly and minimizing downtime.

What are some typical challenges Machine Setup Operators face during shift changes, and how can they be addressed?

Machine Setup Operators often encounter challenges during shift changes, such as incomplete handovers, discrepancies in machine calibration, or misunderstanding of production priorities. To address these issues, many facilities implement detailed logbooks, standardized checklists, and verbal briefings to ensure smooth transitions. Effective communication between outgoing and incoming operators is vital, as it helps prevent downtime and maintains product quality. Proactively participating in these handover procedures can greatly improve operational efficiency and foster a collaborative team environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Setup Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Setup Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with industrial machinery, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with manufacturing systems like CNC controls, blueprints, and calibration tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help operators adapt to production needs and resolve issues quickly. These skills are crucial to ensure efficient machine operation, minimize downtime, and maintain product quality in a manufacturing environment.
What are popular job titles related to Machine Setup Operator jobs in CA? For Machine Setup Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Machine Set Up Operator

GROUPE SEB

Montebello, CA โ€ข On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

What we will achieve together:
We are seeking a skilled Machine Setup Operator to configure and operate complex fabrication equipment supporting the production of professional coffee brewers. The ideal candidate has experience working with stainless steel sheet metal and thrives in a precision-driven manufacturing environment.
Base Salary Range: $25/hr
Key Responsibilities Include:
โ€ข Proficient in all machines on the lean cells on the production lines
โ€ข Adjusts machine settings to operate machinery in accordance with established procedures
โ€ข Fitting, setting, and loading of metal sheets into the machine
โ€ข May require use of power tools to grind or deburr sheet metal
โ€ข Many other industry/trade specific responsibilities
โ€ข Identify and report safety hazards in the workplace
โ€ข Comply to Occupational Health and Safety Rules
โ€ข Understanding of machine safety, operation & Lock out tagout
โ€ข Familiar with machines such as (Punch Press, Press Brake, Turret, Roller, shear etc.)
โ€ข First article inspection
โ€ข Communicate machine operation or parts defects
โ€ข Determine sheet metal grade, finish, size, and gauge
โ€ข Identify tool and die issues and perform repair (sharpening) and replacement of tool & die
โ€ข Provide support to Machine Operator I
โ€ข Observes operation of machine and verifies conformance of formed or cut workpiece to specifications, using measuring
instruments, such as fixed gauges, calipers, and micrometers.
โ€ข Maintains cleanliness of workstations.
Physical Requirements:
โ€ข Ability to lift 50 pounds continuously
โ€ข Standing, walking, manual dexterity
โ€ข Ability to work in a cold or hot environment
Groupe SEB 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, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws. For more information, please see "Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal" Poster