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Operator Helper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Precision Metal Products

Forge General Helper

El Cajon, CA

$18.25 - $21/hr

This job classification can promote to Forge Machine Operator, Metal Parts Finisher, Production Saw Operator, or other machine operator position. Principle Duties and Responsibilities * Count parts

Alcon3Pl

Forklift Operator Perris CA

Perris, CA · On-site

$18/hr

MUST BE OKAY WITH WORKING FORKLIFT OPERATOR/ HELPING AROUND THE WAREHOUSE. * FORKLIFT OPERATOR * MUST BE OKAY WITH LIFTING/PUSHING 30-50 LBS * AVAILABLE OT amp; WEEKENDS * FLEXABLE SCHEDULE * SHIFT ...

Doncasters

Melter Helper

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$28.90 - $37/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Competitive medical insurance The Role As a Vacuum Melter, you will be responsible for operating ... Training and certification opportunities are provided to help you advance in your role. * Class C

Crane Company

Welder Helper

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$23/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Help Operators, Welders and other co-workers with supplying or holding materials or tools, or cleaning work areas and equipment. * Count finished products to determine if product orders are complete.

DBM GLOBAL INC

Production Helper

Stockton, CA

$20 - $21/hr

  • Medical

Production Helper assists workers engaged in the fabrication of structural metal products by ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Crane Company

Welder Helper

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Help Operators, Welders and other co-workers with supplying or holding materials or tools, or cleaning work areas and equipment. * Count finished products to determine if product orders are complete.

Crane Company

Welder Helper

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Help Operators, Welders and other co-workers with supplying or holding materials or tools, or cleaning work areas and equipment. * Count finished products to determine if product orders are complete.

Crane Company

Welder Helper

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Help Operators, Welders and other co-workers with supplying or holding materials or tools, or cleaning work areas and equipment. * Count finished products to determine if product orders are complete.

Schuff Steel

Production Helper

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

  • Medical

Production Helper assists workers engaged in the fabrication of structural metal products by ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

SCHUFF STEEL CO

Production Helper

Stockton, CA

$20 - $21/hr

  • Medical

Production Helper assists workers engaged in the fabrication of structural metal products by ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Ducommun

General Helper

Gardena, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

General Helper Assist shop personnel with a variety of support tasks that are based on department ... * Assist the operators in conduct the shop processes. * Loads & unloads materials, parts, or ...

Bizzell

Cook Helper

Long Beach, CA

$17.65/hr

Cook Helper Reports To: Food Services Supervisor Department: Food Services FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt ... Demonstrates and abides by The Bizzell Group's core values and operating principles. Models ...

Bizzell Group

Cook Helper

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$17.65/hr

Cook Helper Reports To: Food Services Supervisor Department: Food Services FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt ... operating principles. • Models, mentors, and monitors appropriate career success skills. • ...

Bizzell Group

Cook Helper

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$17.65/hr

Cook Helper Reports To: Food Services Supervisor Department: Food Services FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt ... Demonstrates and abides by The Bizzell Group's core values and operating principles. * Models ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperator Helper JobsOperator Helper Jobs in California

Operator Helper information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator helper in California is $17.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Operator Helper vs Equipment Operator?

AspectOperator HelperEquipment Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, factories, or industrial settings assisting equipment operatorsConstruction sites, factories, or industrial settings operating heavy machinery
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across construction, manufacturing, and industrial sectors as support staffUsed in similar sectors but with responsibility for operating machinery
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level support roles in machinery operationLearning about operating heavy equipment and related roles

The main difference between an Operator Helper and an Equipment Operator is that the Helper assists with supporting tasks and does not operate heavy machinery independently, while the Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and controlling machinery directly. Both roles are essential in industrial and construction environments, but they differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operator helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operator Helper, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, hand tools, and sometimes forklift certification are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability are crucial soft skills for supporting operators and maintaining a safe work environment. These abilities ensure smooth production processes, minimize downtime, and contribute to overall workplace safety and efficiency.

What is an operator helper?

Operator Helpers assist machine operators, technicians, or skilled workers in manufacturing, construction, or production environments. Their duties often include preparing materials, maintaining equipment, cleaning work areas, and helping ensure smooth operation of machinery. They play a vital role in supporting workflow, reducing downtime, and keeping the workplace safe and efficient. Operator Helpers typically work under direct supervision and may advance to more specialized roles with experience.

What are some common challenges operator helpers face on the job, and how can they overcome them?

Operator Helpers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced environments, maintaining safety standards, and learning to operate different types of machinery. To overcome these challenges, it's important to be proactive in communicating with team members, strictly follow safety protocols, and seek out on-the-job training opportunities. Building strong relationships with experienced operators can also help new Operator Helpers gain valuable insights and hands-on experience, making it easier to navigate daily responsibilities and advance within the team.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Operator Helper jobs?

Cities in California with the most Operator Helper job openings:

Operator Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Helper job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,948 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Belt Grinder Operator Helper

INA Solution Inc

Santa Fe Springs, CA • On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Job Title: Machine Operator Helper

Location: Santa Fe Springs, CA
Duration: Long-Term Contract

Job Summary:

The Belt Grinding Machine Operator Helper supports the primary operator in setting up, running, and maintaining belt grinding equipment used for surface finishing, deburring, and material preparation. This role assists with material handling, basic grinding tasks, inspection, and maintaining a clean and safe work area to ensure efficient workflow and high-quality output.

Key Responsibilities:

Machine Support:

  • Assist with setup and preparation of belt grinding machines, including changing belts, adjusting tracking, and preparing fixtures.
  • Load and unload parts onto the grinding machine or worktable.
  • Monitor grinding operations to identify defects, overheating, or improper belt performance.
  • Help the operator make adjustments to pressure, angle, or feed rate as needed.

Production & Finishing Tasks:

  • Perform basic grinding, deburring, smoothing, and surface preparation on metal or other materials.
  • Handle raw materials, components, and finished parts at each stage of the grinding process.
  • Use measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges, rulers) to verify part dimensions and finish quality.
  • Sort, label, and package finished parts according to job specifications.

Safety & Maintenance:

  • Follow all safety procedures related to belt grinders, including PPE, guard usage, and spark/fire precautions.
  • Keep grinding area clean by removing dust, metal shavings, and debris regularly.
  • Assist with routine machine maintenance such as belt changes, lubrication checks, and cleanup.
  • Report worn belts, machine issues, or safety hazards immediately to the operator or supervisor.

Documentation:

  • Record production quantities, part counts, and material usage.
  • Complete quality checklists or inspection forms as required.

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Prior experience with grinding, finishing, or manufacturing equipment is a plus but not required.

Skills & Abilities:

  • Ability to learn belt grinding techniques and follow instructions closely.
  • Basic understanding of hand tools and measurement instruments.
  • Good manual dexterity and attention to detail.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs regularly.
  • Frequent standing, bending, reaching, and repetitive hand movements.
  • Comfortable working around sparks, grinding dust, and noisy equipment (with PPE).

Work Environment:

  • Production/finishing area with exposure to metal dust, noise, vibration, and moving machinery.
  • Personal protective equipment required (safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, etc.).

Workplace Policies — Drugs & Alcohol:

  • Employees must report to work free from the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any impairing substances.
  • The company maintains a zero-tolerance policy for drug or alcohol use during work hours or on company property.
  • Failure to comply with these policies may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
  • Employees must notify the supervisor if they are taking prescribed medications that may affect their ability to safely operate machinery.