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Print Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Naprotek

SMT Machine Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $25.50/hr

Screen Printing process * Reflow Assembled Boards * Hand Load Components Qualifications: * Requires a minimum of 5 years of progressively complex SMT machine operator experience in a PCB ...

Naprotek, LLC

SMT Machine Operator

San Jose, CA

$23 - $25/hr

Screen Printing process * Reflow Assembled Boards * Hand Load Components Qualifications: * Requires a minimum of 5 years of progressively complex SMT machine operator experience in a PCB ...

Multi-Color Corporation

Machine Operator

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Backed by over a century of printing experience, MCC is focused on the future by developing ... We are currently looking for a Rewinder Operator to join our team. Experience is not required but ...

Naprotek

SMT Machine Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $25.50/hr

Screen Printing process * Reflow Assembled Boards * Hand Load Components Qualifications: * Requires a minimum of 5 years of progressively complex SMT machine operator experience in a PCB ...

Pioneer Circuits Inc.

SMT Machine Operator

Santa Ana, CA

$19 - $23/hr

About the Opportunity The Assembly SMT Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and ... Assists in performing machine preventative maintenance on screen printer and pick and place ...

Apply Early

Pioneer Circuits Inc.

SMT Machine Operator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

About the Opportunity The Assembly SMT Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and ... Assists in performing machine preventative maintenance on screen printer and pick and place ...

mul

Machine Operator

North Highlands, CA · Hybrid

$21 - $23/hr

Backed by over a century of printing experience, MCC is focused on the future by developing ... We are currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team. Experience is not required but ...

mul

Machine Operator

North Highlands, CA · Hybrid

$21 - $23/hr

Backed by over a century of printing experience, MCC is focused on the future by developing ... We are currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team. Experience is not required but ...

Imprint Energy

Screen Print Operator

Alameda, CA

... machine operator or lab technician role Ability to work and communicate with a small team in a ... SMT, printed electronics, etc. Experience with stencil or screen printing of functional inks ...

Imprint Energy

Screen Print Operator

Alameda, CA · On-site

... in a machine operator or lab technician role • Ability to work and communicate with a small team in a dynamic, fast-moving environment with minimal supervision • Attention to detail and ...

Novolex

Machine Operator

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$19.32 - $21.32/hr

Machine Operator City of Industry, CA Compensation Includes * Starting Pay Rate of $19.32 - 21.32 ... Understand print job requirements and quality issues * Perform quality checks on finished products

Novolex

Machine Operator

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$19.81 - $21.85/hr

Machine Operator City of Industry, CA - Railroad St. Location Compensation Includes: * Starting Pay ... Understand print job requirements and quality issues * Perform quality checks on finished products

Novolex

Machine Operator

City Of Industry, CA

$19.32 - $21.32/hr

Machine Operator City of Industry, CA Compensation Includes * Starting Pay Rate of $19.32 - 21.32 ... Understand print job requirements and quality issues * Perform quality checks on finished products

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All JobsPrint Machine Operator JobsPrint Machine Operator Jobs in California

Print Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$21

$31

How much do print machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for print machine operator in California is $21.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a printing machine operator do?

A printing machine operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining printing presses to produce printed materials such as newspapers, packaging, or promotional items. They monitor the printing process for quality, make adjustments as needed, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Proficiency with printing equipment and attention to detail are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Print Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Print Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with offset and digital printing presses, computer-to-plate (CTP) systems, and color calibration tools is typical, along with safety certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, time management, and teamwork set outstanding operators apart. These competencies ensure efficient production, minimize errors, and maintain quality standards in fast-paced printing environments.

How much does a print press operator make?

A print press operator typically earns between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the printing equipment used. Skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of digital and offset presses may earn higher wages.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators may earn higher wages due to technical skills and certifications. Roles such as CNC machine operators or those with advanced programming and maintenance skills tend to have higher salaries compared to general machine operators.

What are some common challenges faced by Print Machine Operators and how can they be managed?

Print Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as machine malfunctions, tight production deadlines, and maintaining print quality standards. Effective troubleshooting skills and a proactive approach to machine maintenance can help minimize downtime. Additionally, clear communication with team members and supervisors is crucial for managing workflow and ensuring that print jobs are completed accurately and on time. Staying organized and attentive to detail helps operators meet quality expectations and address issues quickly.

What is the difference between Print Machine Operator vs Press Operator?

AspectPrint Machine OperatorPress Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training often required
Work EnvironmentPrint shops, manufacturing facilitiesPrinting presses, commercial print shops
Industry UsagePrinting, publishing, packagingCommercial printing, newspaper, packaging
Job FocusOperating various printing machines, quality controlOperating large printing presses, setup, and maintenance

Print Machine Operators and Press Operators both work in printing environments, often requiring similar skills and certifications. While Print Machine Operators tend to focus on operating a variety of printing equipment and quality checks, Press Operators specialize in managing large printing presses, including setup and maintenance. Both roles are essential in the printing industry and often overlap in work environment and credentials.

How to become a print operator?

To become a print machine operator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant training on printing equipment. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and certifications in operating specific machinery or safety standards can improve job prospects. Skills in attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and familiarity with printing software are also beneficial.

What does a Print Machine Operator do?

A Print Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, running, and maintaining printing presses to produce printed materials, such as newspapers, books, packaging, and labels. They load materials, adjust machine settings for different print jobs, and monitor quality throughout the process. Print Machine Operators also troubleshoot issues with the equipment and perform routine maintenance to ensure efficient operation. Attention to detail and strong mechanical skills are important in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Print Machine Operator jobs in California? For Print Machine Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Print Machine Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Print Machine Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Print Machine Operator jobs in CA? For Print Machine Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Print Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Print Machine Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,403 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Machine Operator III

Machine Operator III

Graphic Business Solutions Inc

El Cajon, CA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Description:

At Markful, we've been helping brands make their mark since 1994. What started as a small company with a big dream has grown into a leading provider of print, signage, apparel, promotional products, and marketing solutions. We believe great products matter, and we take pride in producing work that helps our customers stand out and succeed.


As a Machine Operator III, you will play a critical role in bringing those products to life. This is an advanced production position responsible for operating and overseeing multiple pieces of equipment, including highly complex and computerized machinery. You will be responsible for machine setup, production execution, quality control, troubleshooting, and maintaining efficient workflow throughout the manufacturing process.


Our success is built on teamwork, continuous improvement, and a commitment to doing quality work the right way. Success in this role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a sense of ownership over the products being produced. The ideal candidate can solve problems, maintain high production standards, and consistently deliver accurate, high quality work in a fast paced manufacturing environment.


The Machine Operator III is an expert-level production role responsible for operating 5 or more machines or highly complex, computerized production equipment. This role requires deep technical skill, advanced troubleshooting capability, and leadership in driving machine efficiency and process improvement. The Machine Operator III is expected to follow established procedures while learning the fundamentals of machine operation in a manufacturing environment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

1. Operates and oversees 5+ machines or highly complex machinery requiring expert-level knowledge.

2. Leads setup and changeover processes for intricate production runs.

3. Diagnoses and resolves advanced equipment issues to minimize downtime.

4. Performs detailed quality checks and ensures compliance with specifications.

5. Serves as a subject matter expert and mentor to less experienced operators.

6. Collaborates with maintenance and leadership teams on complex repairs and machine upgrades.

7. Records production data accurately and monitors machine performance metrics.

8. Promotes a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.

Requirements:

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business publications. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, and customers.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Ability to apply mathematical concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations. Ability to operate a computer, and must have the capacity to learn technical concepts related to production machine operation.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.