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Machine Setup Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Velo3D

Machine Operator

Fremont, CA · On-site

$29 - $40/hr

A machine operator should be proficient in setup, and running CNC equipment of numerous types and work according to sound and established practices to yield accurate and quality parts. Required ...

Velo3D

Machine Operator

Fremont, CA · On-site

$29 - $40/hr

A machine operator should be proficient in setup, and running CNC equipment of numerous types and work according to sound and established practices to yield accurate and quality parts. Required ...

VELO3D

Machine Operator

Fremont, CA

$29 - $40/hr

A machine operator should be proficient in setup, and running CNC equipment of numerous types and work according to sound and established practices to yield accurate and quality parts. Required ...

Velo3D

Machine Operator

Fremont, CA · On-site

$29 - $40/hr

A machine operator should be proficient in setup, and running CNC equipment of numerous types and work according to sound and established practices to yield accurate and quality parts. Required ...

VELO3D

Machine Operator

Fremont, CA

$29 - $40/hr

A machine operator should be proficient in setup, and running CNC equipment of numerous types and work according to sound and established practices to yield accurate and quality parts. Required ...

W3Global Inc.

CNC Machinist

Santa Ana, CA

$25 - $38/hr

As a CNC Machinist Setup/Operator, you will be integral to the manufacturing process, responsible for setting up and operating CNC machines to produce precision components. Reporting to the ...

VOLT

1st & 2nd shift Machine Operators

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

... Operator you will: * Operate and monitor production equipment, including slicers, packaging machinery (including automated systems), and other manufacturing equipment. * Perform machine setup at the ...

Volt

1st & 2nd shift Machine Operators

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

... Operator you will: * Operate and monitor production equipment, including slicers, packaging machinery (including automated systems), and other manufacturing equipment. * Perform machine setup at the ...

Motive Companies

Extrusion Operator

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$23.50/hr

Job Summary: Perform semiskilled work operating a variety of extrusion equipment, operations ... Must be able to wear respirator to perform machine setup. * Must be able to understand and carry ...

A1J Technologies

CNC Lathe Setup Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$26 - $33.25/hr

Production Support * Assist operators in understanding and running setups efficiently. * Troubleshoot setup-related issues, including tool wear, program edits, and machine performance. * Ensure ...

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Machine Setup Operator information

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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

Velo3D

Fremont, CA • On-site

$29 - $40/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position Overview
A Machine Operator will be responsible for performing all tasks related to the manufacturing and re-manufacturing of Build Plates used in Additive Manufacturing Machines (3D printers). Manufacturing of any and all fixturing and non-standard work holding needed to perform these tasks. Will be asked to consult on the design of certain components and features for ease of manufacturing. 
 
In addition to "build plate" related tasks, a machine operator will be responsible for quick turn machining and re-work o build plates and 3D printed parts . A machine operator will also be responsible for machine tool maintenance and upkeep, 5S of the work area, general shop cleanliness, ordering tooling, work holding, tool holding, and materials needed to complete work. A machine operator should be proficient in setup, and running CNC equipment of numerous types  and work according to sound and established practices to yield accurate and quality parts.
Required Skills
  • 3-axis Doosan DNM 6700 CNC expertise: 1) Setup; 2) Probing; 3) General operation
  • Wire EDM: General use and operation of a wire EDM machine
  • General understanding of ‘G-Codes’
  • Cutting tool assembly
  • Machine setup
  • Machine operation
  • Machine leveling and maintenance
  • Follow directions for proper record keeping using electronic MFG system
Preferred Skills
  • Operation/maintenance of a Furnace (e.g. used for metal part stress relief)
  • Operation/maintenance of a Solukon metal depowdering machine
  • CAD Software: 1) Proficient in the use of SolidWorks CAD Software; 2) Proficient in the use of Fusion360 CAD
  • CAM Software: 1) Autodesk HSMWorks (SolidWorks Plugin); 2) Fusion 360 CAM
Work Location and Shift
  • Work is onsite at Velo3D’s facility in Fremont, California
  • Work schedule is: Monday to Friday 6am to 3pm 
About the Company:
 
Velo, Velo3D, Sapphire and Intelligent Fusion are registered trademarks of Velo3D, Inc. Without Compromise, Flow, Flow Developer, and Assure are trademarks of Velo3D, Inc.
 
With the only SupportFree laser powder bed fusion capability, we enable on-demand manufacturing of production quality Titanium, Inconel, and Aluminum parts with an unprecedented degree of design freedom and quality control. The VELO3D award-winning solution includes an integrated offering of hardware and software: Sapphire® metal AM production printer, Flow™ print preparation software, Assure™ quality assurance and control system, and an integrated manufacturing process that runs throughout the printing operation.
 
Our team enjoys excellent benefits including healthcare coverage and 401(K) employer contributions. We believe in transparency and recognizing exceptional efforts through our monthly all-hands meetings and team member appreciation awards.
 
Our job titles may span more than one career level. The starting base hourly rate for this full-time position is between $29.00 and $40.00. This hourly rate range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this position in the U.S. The actual base pay is dependent upon many factors, such as work experience, job-related skills, related education, work location, and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. In addition to a competitive base salary and a comprehensive benefits package, this position may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and equity program, as applicable.
 
Velo3D provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to, and prohibits discrimination and harassment based on, race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
 
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.