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Machine Setup Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA

$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 ...

Carli Suspension

CNC Setup & Operator

Lake Elsinore, CA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

Load and operate Computer numerical control (CNC) machines and machining centers to fabricate ... workpiece Setup Lathe / Mill for next part to include: fixtures, chucks, spindle collets, sub ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA

$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 ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · 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 ...

SkillSource

CNC Setup Machinist

Nevada City, CA

$22 - $30/hr

Our client is looking for a solid CNC setup operator. Must be able to read blue prints Must be able ... Machining High School Grad Additional Information These are permanent positions NOT contract!

Adecco

Machine Operators

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

... Operator . This position involves operating extrusion equipment, performing machine setups ... Perform machine setup and adjustments to ensure efficient operation * Monitor production processes ...

Adecco

Machine Operators

Huntington Beach, CA

$21 - $23/hr

... Operator . This position involves operating extrusion equipment, performing machine setups ... Perform machine setup and adjustments to ensure efficient operation * Monitor production processes ...

fontana

Header Setup Operator

Burbank, CA · On-site

Position Summary With limited direction or supervision, this machine set-up/operator position requires the set-up and/or operation of heading equipment with various header types and sizes. The ...

Fontana

Header Setup Operator

Burbank, CA · On-site

Position Summary With limited direction or supervision, this machine set-up/operator position requires the set-up and/or operation of heading equipment with various header types and sizes. The ...

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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 Jun 7, 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 Setup Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Setup Operator job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,880 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Filtration Group Corp

Santa Rosa, CA

$21.91/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Filtration Group rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Filtration Group is on a mission to make the world safer, healthier and more productive.   With a passionate workforce, global footprint and world class engineering and manufacturing capabilities, we are driving innovation and developing solutions across a broad spectrum of applications in the fast-growing global filtration industry.   We are committed to maintaining an entrepreneurial culture built on a foundation of trust and in which our leaders exhibit a strong bias for action.

The Company began in 2009 and has rapidly grown to be a global leader in the highly attractive filtration industry.   With revenues of $1.6 billion, Filtration Group is consistently recognized as the fastest growing and one of the largest filtration businesses in the world.   With over 7,000 employees, the Company serves its customers from a global footprint of 105 facilities in over 25 countries.  Filtration Group operates across a wide variety of attractive end markets and produces mission critical products with high replacement rates.   Over 80% of the Company’s revenue comes from replacement / consumable products, many of which are specified into customer’s products or processes.

Filtration Group is an affiliate of Madison Industries, one of the largest and most successful privately held companies in the world. Madison builds entrepreneurially driven, branded market leaders that are committed to making the world safer, healthier and more productive by creating innovative solutions that deliver outstanding customer value. The team at Madison is committed to building something truly remarkable that long outlasts them while coaching others to reach their highest potential.  Please visit Madison at www.madison.net.


Summary –

This position performs the tasks associated with advanced machine operation which include setup and operation of, trim presses, drilling and tapping, port and stem, vibratory systems and parts washing. 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 independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the machine shop supervisor and is available to train basic machine operators in the setup of individual machines through on the job training.

Responsibilities –

  • To perform any of the machining operations as assigned by the team lead or production supervisor.
  • Has the ability and proficiency to setup and operate trim presses, various port and stem machines, vibratory machines, drill and tap fixturing.
  • Works in quality conscious and safe manner.
  • Ability to perform work at process speed and/or standard rates.
  • Advises supervisor with any problems with tools, equipment, fixtures, materials, or setup operator.
  • Maintains daily product and scrap records.
  • Performs miscellaneous duties as assigned by the machine shop or production supervisor.
  • Keeps work station and surrounding area clean.
  • Maintain all assigned tools.
  • Any other duties are required by management.

  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • 2-3 years’ work experience in related field a plus 
  • Must be able to read, write, and count.
  •  Good hand eye coordination. Good communication skills
  •  Must be able to work sitting or standing for up to 8 hours.
  • Must be able to work flexible hours.
  • Follow all plant and departmental safety rules and regulations.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • Base Salary: $21.91 hourly and $4.00 shift diffential.
  • Paid time off and paid holidays.
  • Paid sick time .
  • 401 (k) with company match.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, vision.

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