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Printing Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SPI and Print Operator

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$20.25 - $24.25/hr

Job Summary: The SPI and Print Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining the Solder ... Identify and escalate quality issues related to solder paste printing to process or SMT engineers.

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The Position We are looking for a dependable, experienced printer who understands the screen-printing process and can confidently move between automatic and manual production. The ideal candidate can ...

Print Production Staff

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$19.25 - $23.50/hr

A skilled Large Format Print Operator to temporarily join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in color reprographics and be proficient in utilizing large format printers, specifically ...

Vutek Operator

Santa Fe Springs, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr

VUTEk Operator (Large-Format Digital Print Production Specialist) Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented VUTEk Operator to set up, operate, and maintain large-format EFI VUTEk printing systems.

Vutek Operator

Santa Fe Springs, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr

VUTEk Operator (Large-Format Digital Print Production Specialist) Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented VUTEk Operator to set up, operate, and maintain large-format EFI VUTEk printing systems.

Vutek Operator

Santa Fe Springs, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr

VUTEk Operator (Large-Format Digital Print Production Specialist) Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented VUTEk Operator to set up, operate, and maintain large-format EFI VUTEk printing systems.

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Printing Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do printing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for printing operator in California is $18.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a printing operator?

Printing Operators are skilled professionals responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining printing presses and related machinery. They ensure that print jobs are completed accurately, efficiently, and according to client specifications. Their duties include loading materials, adjusting press settings, monitoring print quality, and performing routine equipment maintenance. Printing Operators often work in commercial printing shops, publishing houses, or packaging companies. Attention to detail and technical aptitude are essential for success in this role.

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

To thrive as a Printing Operator, you need a solid understanding of printing processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with digital and offset printing machines, color calibration tools, and finishing equipment is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, time management, and effective communication help operators handle tight deadlines and troubleshoot issues efficiently. These skills ensure high-quality print output, minimize downtime, and support smooth production workflows.

What are some common challenges faced by printing operators, and how can they be addressed?

Printing Operators often encounter challenges such as managing tight production deadlines, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring consistent print quality. To address these, operators benefit from strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and proactive maintenance practices. Regular communication with team members and supervisors also helps in quickly resolving issues and keeping projects on track. Ongoing training on new printing technologies can further enhance efficiency and reduce downtime.

What is the difference between Printing Operator vs Press Operator?

AspectPrinting OperatorPress Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications in printing technologyHigh school diploma; specialized training or certifications in press operation
Work EnvironmentPrint shops, manufacturing facilities, commercial printing companiesPrinting presses, manufacturing plants, commercial print facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesSet up, operate, and monitor printing machines; ensure print qualityOperate and maintain printing presses; troubleshoot mechanical issues

Printing Operators and Press Operators often share similar skills and work environments, focusing on operating printing machinery. While their roles overlap, Press Operators typically handle more complex press systems and maintenance tasks. Both roles are essential in the printing industry, with similar credentials and work settings, making them common points of comparison for job seekers and employers alike.

How much does a printing operator make?

The average salary for a printing operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the printing equipment used. Entry-level operators may earn less, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Certifications and familiarity with digital or offset printing machines can also influence pay rates.

How to become a printing operator?

To become a printing operator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical courses in printing technology. Skills in operating printing machinery, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety procedures are important; some employers may require certification in specific printing processes or equipment.

What are popular job titles related to Printing Operator jobs in California?

For Printing Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Printing Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Printing Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Printing Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Printing Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Printing Operator jobs in CA?

For Printing Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Printing Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,699 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

SPI and Print Operator

Sierra Circuits inc.

San Jose, CA โ€ข On-site

$20.25 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Sierra Circuits is a Silicon Valley-based leader in printed circuit board manufacturing and assembly, specializing in high-quality, quick-turn and complex prototypes. With over 35 years of experience, Sierra provides a seamless, end-to-end PCB solution—from design and fabrication to assembly and testing—all under one roof at its state-of-the-art facilities in Sunnyvale, California. Sierra Circuits is committed to supporting engineers and designers through extensive educational resources. The company offers free online tools such as the Stackup Designer, Impedance Calculator, Material Selector, and BOM and DFM Checkers, along with technical blogs, webinars, design guides, and its SierraConnect community forum. Sierra Circuit serves all industries including aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, and telecommunications, building PCBs to the highest industry standards, and keeping innovation at the forefront of everything we do.

Job Summary: The SPI and Print Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining the Solder Paste Inspection (SPI) equipment to ensure accurate inspection of solder paste deposition during the surface mount assembly process. This role is critical for maintaining product quality and identifying solder-related defects early in the manufacturing process. The ideal candidate will have experience in SMT production and a strong attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate SPI equipment (e.g., Koh Young, Cyber-Optics, Mirtec, etc.) to inspect solder paste deposits on PCBs.
  • Load programs and verify recipes for each production job based on process instructions.
  • Perform first article inspections and validate solder paste print quality against specifications.
  • Review inspection results and make decisions on pass/fail criteria according to IPC standards.
  • Identify and escalate quality issues related to solder paste printing to process or SMT engineers.
  • Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and cleaning of SPI machines.
  • Record and maintain inspection data for process tracking and traceability.
  • Work closely with the SMT line team to optimize stencil printing process and reduce defects.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives and root cause analysis activities.

Qualifications/Skills:

  • High school diploma or GED required; technical certificate or associate degree preferred.
  • 1+ years of experience in SMT manufacturing, preferably with SPI equipment.
  • Familiarity with IPC-A-610 and SMT inspection standards.
  • Ability to interpret assembly drawings and process documents.
  • Basic computer skills and ability to use inspection and analysis software.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.

What We Offer

  • Full - Time, Exempt position
  • Excellent benefits package includes; Medical (HMO & PPO), Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts, Basic Life/ADD, Voluntary Benefits
  • Vacation, sick and paid holidays