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Operator Internship Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Equillium

Paid Internship

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Equillium is looking for a long-term Research Interns (RI) to join its research team. The candidate ... Mechanical aptitude with operating laboratory equipment, basic maintenance, and calibration with ...

Meritage Homes Corporation

Purchasing Internship

Irvine, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26/hr

Our internship program is designed to help you not only understand what we do but how and why we do ... Operating with integrity * Always assuming positive intent and bringing passion to work * Having a ...

Greystar

Construction Internship

Solana Beach, CA · On-site

$33/hr

Greystar is the largest operator of apartments in the United States, managing over one million ... Our Internship is an immersion into the multifamily construction industry, providing an opportunity ...

Friendly Franchisees Corp.

Leasing Internship (Paid)

CA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Interns will gain hands-on experience in leasing, resident relations, financial fundamentals, and ... Understand how NOI (Net Operating Income) drives property value * Learn how leasing strategy ...

Meritage Homes

Purchasing Internship

Irvine, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26/hr

Our internship program is designed to help you not only understand what we do but how and why we do ... Operating with integrity * Always assuming positive intent and bringing passion to work * Having a ...

Hasana, Inc.

Film & Video Internship

Los Angeles, CA

Please note that this is an unpaid internship. As the Film & Video Intern for Hasana, Inc. you will ... Conducts field-based video production which involves interacting with clients and operating all ...

Formic

2026 Internship

Oakland, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25/hr

This internship is ideal for someone who is highly organized, curious, and excited to learn how a ... our Operating Principles and embody them in action. If this sounds like you, Formic may be the ...

New

Formic

2026 Internship

Alameda, CA · On-site

$19 - $24.75/hr

This internship is ideal for someone who is highly organized, curious, and excited to learn how a ... our Operating Principles and embody them in action. If this sounds like you, Formic may be the ...

New

Formic

2026 Internship

Fremont, CA

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

This internship is ideal for someone who is highly organized, curious, and excited to learn how a ... our Operating Principles and embody them in action. If this sounds like you, Formic may be the ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOperator JobsOperator Internship JobsOperator Internship Jobs in California

Operator Internship information

What is an operator internship?

Operator internships are structured, short-term work experiences where students or recent graduates assist in operating machinery, equipment, or industrial processes under supervision. These internships are designed to provide hands-on training in areas such as manufacturing, utilities, or plant operations. Participants learn about safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and daily operational procedures. The goal is to help interns develop skills and knowledge needed for entry-level operator roles while gaining valuable workplace experience.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities during an operator internship?

During an Operator Internship, you can expect to assist with the setup, operation, and maintenance of machinery or equipment under supervision. Interns often learn to monitor production lines, troubleshoot minor issues, and follow safety procedures closely. You’ll collaborate with experienced operators and engineers, gaining hands-on experience and a clear understanding of manufacturing processes. This role provides an excellent foundation for understanding plant operations and can lead to more advanced positions in manufacturing or operations management.

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

To thrive as an Operator Intern, you generally need a foundational understanding of mechanical or industrial processes, basic technical aptitude, and enrollment in a relevant degree or training program. Familiarity with industry-specific equipment, safety protocols, and common software systems like SCADA or data entry platforms is often required. Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities are important to ensure safe, efficient operations and to build the practical experience necessary for a successful career in operations.

What is the difference between Operator Internship vs Machine Operator?

AspectOperator InternshipMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, supervised, learning-focusedFull-time, hands-on in manufacturing or industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs in manufacturing, energy, or industrial sectorsManufacturing plants, factories, industrial facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Operator Internship and a Machine Operator is that an internship is a training position designed for learning and gaining experience, often with supervision, while a Machine Operator is a full-time role responsible for operating machinery independently. Internships serve as a stepping stone into the industry, whereas Machine Operators are experienced workers performing essential operational tasks.

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 Internship jobs?

Cities in California with the most Operator Internship job openings:

Operator Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Internship 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.

Paid Internship

Equillium

San Diego, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Internship

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Equillium is looking for a long-term Research Interns (RI) to join its research team. The candidate will be a responsible, self-driven and motivated individual with an interest in science. The candidates will gain experience working in an immunology focused research lab. Through guided mentorship, the RI will be responsible for providing lab management and administrative support for Equillium's lab space located in San Diego. The successful candidate will also learn how to perform molecular biology and immunology research techniques. There will also be opportunities to work on assignments of moderate complexity, which includes performing experiments, making detailed observations, analyzing data, and interpreting results. May be asked to perform other scientifically related duties as needed.
Essential Assistance Duties:
  • Assist with lab maintenance
  • Inventory management: placing orders and restocking supplies
  • Receive packages and file documentations for financial review
  • Keep track of equipment inventory, service due date and assist in scheduling service appointment with vendors
  • Provide lab support to research team: biohazardous waste management, buffer formulations, lab housekeeping and organization

Schedule:
  • Must be able to commit to minimum of 15-20 hrs. per week (M-F). Hours are flexible between 8am and 5pm. This is an onsite internship opportunity.

Education:
  • Candidates must be enrolled within an undergraduate program in a science-focused degree. Not currently seeking candidates who have graduated or will be graduating in the spring of 2027.

Experience:
  • 0-6 months of relevant experience in a biology focused laboratory, such as a semester long undergraduate research project or a temporary assignment in industry
  • Some laboratory experience in biology, chemical biology, or related discipline (relevant courses may be considered for laboratory experience)
  • Mechanical aptitude with operating laboratory equipment, basic maintenance, and calibration with minimal supervision
  • High motivation and independence in reading scientific literature and performing experiments under supervision

Skills and Attributes:
  • Highly self-motivated
  • Detail-oriented with excellent time management and organizational skills
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong computer literacy, including Microsoft Office suite
  • Flexibility to adapt in a cross-functional and dynamic, "start-up" type environment.

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