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Pharmaceutical Machine Operator Jobs in California

Die Cutting

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Die Cutting Operator Location: Santa Fe Springs, CA Base Pay: $19.00 - $24.00 per hour (based on ... Product Instructions for use on lightweight, pharmaceutical grade paper. * A commitment to ...

Operator

Hayward, CA

$20 - $26.25/hr

Loads and unloads product into totes that are sterilized through an irradiation machine. * Prepares ... pharmaceutical industries.

Pharmaceutical Packaging Tech Location: #la-location_name Workdays/shifts : Afternoon/ evening ... Duties include operating machinery, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining accurate records.

Pharmaceutical Packaging Tech Location: #la-location_name Workdays/shifts: Afternoon/ evening ... Duties include operating machinery, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining accurate records.

Operate basic hand tools, power tools, and assembly machinery safely and efficiently * Follow ... testing, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, and other high-growth end-markets. The Company sells ...

Machine Operation & Setup * Operate and monitor CNC machinery (e.g., Mills, lathes, Drills) for ... testing, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, and other high-growth end-markets. The Company sells ...

Saw Operator

Rialto, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

This position is ideal for a safety-focused operator who combines machine skills, measurement ... including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and consumer products. With a commitment to ...

Fab Operator

Fremont, CA · On-site

$22 - $34.50/hr

In this role, you will operate state-of-the-art automated machinery that prints, chemically bakes ... Background in semiconductor manufacturing, medical device manufacturing, pharmaceutical processing ...

Warehouse Operator

Temecula, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $29.25/hr

... pharmaceutical products to hospitals, nursing homes, HME providers, surgery centers, physician ... Our Warehouse Operators are responsible for operating machinery to move materials around a facility ...

... pharmaceutical products to hospitals, nursing homes, HME providers, surgery centers, physician ... Our Warehouse Operators are responsible for operating machinery to move materials around a facility ...

Warehouse Operator

Temecula, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $29.25/hr

... pharmaceutical products to hospitals, nursing homes, HME providers, surgery centers, physician ... Our Warehouse Operators are responsible for operating machinery to move materials around a facility ...

Warehouse Operator

Temecula, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $29.25/hr

... pharmaceutical products to hospitals, nursing homes, HME providers, surgery centers, physician ... Our Warehouse Operators are responsible for operating machinery to move materials around a facility ...

Showing results 21-40

Pharmaceutical Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do pharmaceutical machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for pharmaceutical machine operator in California is $17.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a pharmaceutical machine operator do?

A typical workday as a Pharmaceutical Machine Operator involves setting up, operating, and monitoring machinery used in the production of medications and healthcare products. You will routinely inspect equipment, ensure batches meet quality standards, document production data, and perform minor troubleshooting or routine maintenance. The work is often done in cleanroom environments, adhering to strict safety and quality protocols. You may also collaborate closely with quality control, maintenance, and supervisory teams to resolve issues and optimize production flow. This role is ideal for detail-oriented individuals who enjoy hands-on technical work in a team-based setting.

What is a pharmaceutical machine operator?

A Pharmaceutical Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining machinery used in pharmaceutical manufacturing. They ensure equipment runs efficiently, follow safety and quality guidelines, and troubleshoot any technical issues. Their duties may include setting up machines, conducting inspections, and documenting production activities to comply with industry regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pharmaceutical machine operator?

To thrive as a Pharmaceutical Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical operations, attention to detail, basic math skills, and typically possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with automated production equipment, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and sometimes specialized certifications like cGMP or technical training are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These qualifications are essential to ensure efficient, safe, and compliant production of pharmaceutical products in a fast-paced, regulated environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pharmaceutical Machine Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Pharmaceutical Machine Operator jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Pharmaceutical Machine Operator 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 $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Visual Inspection and Packing Operator

Nivagen Pharmaceuticals

Sacramento, CA

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

About the Company:

Nivagen is a global company dedicated to enhancing lives by developing and providing cost-effective generic prescription drugs and over-the-counter products for the North American market. For over a decade, we've remained steadfast in our commitment to the core values of excellence, integrity, and respect for people. Our team of professionals collaborates tirelessly to pioneer advancements in manufacturing, distribution, and quality control, ensuring a holistic approach to healthcare. Through vertical integration of the pharmaceutical supply chain, cutting-edge technology, and unwavering dedication to excellence, we continually strive to redefine medication accessibility and affordability. We prioritize our employees' well-being by offering competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and robust training and development opportunities. By investing in our workforce and fostering a culture of growth and support, we empower our team to drive innovation and make a positive impact in the healthcare industry. At Nivagen, our mission is clear: to make a meaningful difference in people's lives by delivering high-quality, affordable medications while upholding the highest standards of integrity and excellence.

Job Location:

Nivagen Pharmaceuticals LLC, Sacramento, CA

3900 Duckhorn Dr, Sacramento, CA 95834.

About the Job:

Title of the Position: Visual Inspection and Packing Operator

At Nivagen, the Visual Inspection and Packaging Operator plays a critical role for performing manual visual inspection of products to ensure that defined quality standards are met. The role also involves operating manual and/or automatic leak testing machines and packing equipment to prepare products for shipment. The operator must perform activities related to sterile manufacturing, as and when required, and ensure that all operations are carried out in strict compliance with company policies, standard operating procedures, applicable regulatory requirements, and current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), while upholding the highest standards of product quality and safety throughout the production process.

Responsibilities:

  • To perform the visual inspection of the filled containers manually i.e., vials (liquid and lyophilised), pre-filled syringes, cartridges and IV bags.
  • To identify the defects i.e., Volume variation, particulate matter (such as glass pieces, any type of particles, fibres, etc.) Cosmetic defects (such as cap defects, sealing defects, label flaws, printed text matter flaws, external contamination, damage, wrong labelling, cross labelling flaws etc.) and shall ensure no defective product shall be supplied to the market.
  • Reconciliation and Segregation of the good and defective containers, preparation of defect library and preparation of Knapp/qualification kits required for the qualification of automatic inspection machines.
  • Assist and prepare documents (includes SOPs, batch records), protocols required for operation and maintenance of the VI, leak testing and packing equipment.
  • Responsible for handling, collection, transportation,and storage of the semi-finished and finished products as per product storage conditions and as per process requirements.
  • Responsible for avoiding cross-contamination and mix-up errors at various stages of operations.
  • Responsible for collaborating effectively with cross-functional departments to ensure timely coordination and organization of all prerequisites, supporting the smooth operation of the department and ensuring the delivery of finished products that meet market needs and business demands.
  • Qualification/validation of the equipment and area in accordance with approved protocols, and preparation and readiness for the routine commercial manufacturing.
  • The role requires the ability to stand, walk, and perform tasks for extended periods, lift and move products up to 35 kg, and demonstrate good hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills for inspection and packing duties.
  • The role requires good eyesight, strong attention to detail, the ability to identify defects or discrepancies, and a basic understanding of visual inspection and packaging requirements.
  • To perform in process, check and record details in documents in accordance with approved protocols, batch records, SOPs and regulatory guidelines.
  • Collaborate closely with production staff, including operators, supervisors, and cross-functional teams, to ensure product quality and timely delivery, while actively participating in team meetings and training sessions as required.
  • Packaging of products with secondary packing materials and packing them according to company specifications. Ensure packaging is sealed, labelled correctly, and checked for completeness and accuracy.
  • Perform various packaging operations such as labelling of carton/pouch, carton/pouch packaging, weighing of carton /pouch, printing and verification of batch details on carton/pouch, tertiary packaging as per packaging configuration and standards.
  • Collaboration with warehouse, production, In process quality teams for timely support and product deliverables to meet OTIF.
  • Adhere to safety guidelines, promptly report hazards or accidents, and ensure the work area remains clean and organized.
  • Involved in daily operations, including cleaning, maintaining logs, and overseeing routine visual /packing activities to ensure efficiency and compliance
  • Tracking defect trends, maintaining control over defect storage, conducting periodic reviews, and implementing control and mitigation plans
  • Assist and Managing market complaints, conducting investigations, implementing corrective actions, and preventing future occurrences.
  • Inventory management for the consumables required for the day to day packing activities.
  • Handling of Autoclave, Isolator and Filling machine as and when required.
  • Must be aware of clean room gowning.
  • Any other duties as directed by the supervisor.

Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification or degree in a related field is a plus.

 Experience:

  • 1-3 years of experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, visual inspection, or packaging

Knowledge and Skills:

  • cGMP, FDA regulations, and SOPs related to sterile and non-sterile pharmaceutical production.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to detect visual defects.
  • Proficiency in operating inspection and packaging equipment.
  • Ability to follow written instructions and complete documentation accurately.
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.

Requirements:

  • Legally authorized to be employed in the United States (U.S. citizens or national, permanent residents)
  • Must live or be willing to move to the Sacramento Metropolitan Region (Approx. 40 miles' radius)
  • Able to successfully complete a drug and background check
  • Stand, walk, and perform tasks for extended periods, lift and move products up to 35 kg, and demonstrate good hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills for inspection and packing duties.
  • Must comply with cleanroom protocols, gowning, and PPE requirements.
  • The role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to identify defects or discrepancies, a basic understanding of quality control and packaging requirements, the capacity to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards, and good manual dexterity for handling delicate products.

Benefits:

  • Pay range $18 - $25 per hour
  • Benefits: Nivagen offers a wide variety of benefits and programs to support health and well-being, including medical, dental and vision coverage
  • Paid time off plan
  • 401 (k) savings plan

Additional Information:

Nivagen to afford equal opportunity for employment to all individuals regardless of race, color, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, history of disability, ancestry, citizenship status, political affiliation, religion, gender, transgender, gender identity, marital status, status as a parent, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information or other factors prohibited by law, and to prohibit harassment or retaliation based on any of these factors.