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Production Associate Machine Operator Jobs in Merced, CA

Operating, cleaning, and maintaining reactors, pumps, tanks, blenders, and absorbers used in ... Hands-on experience with tools, machinery, or industrial equipment * Comfortable working with high ...

Operating, cleaning, and maintaining reactors, pumps, tanks, blenders, and absorbers used in ... Hands-on experience with tools, machinery, or industrial equipment * Comfortable working with high ...

Operating, cleaning, and maintaining reactors, pumps, tanks, blenders, and absorbers used in ... Hands-on experience with tools, machinery, or industrial equipment * Comfortable working with high ...

Operating, cleaning, and maintaining reactors, pumps, tanks, blenders, and absorbers used in ... Hands-on experience with tools, machinery, or industrial equipment * Comfortable working with high ...

Production Floater 2nd Shift

Raymond, CA · On-site

$19 - $31.01/hr

The Production Floater is responsible for operating a variety of machines to assist in meeting production demands; includes, but not limited to, Saws (diamond blade and wire), Mausoleum Assembly ...

Description Performs inspections for product quality and periodically monitors packaging equipment ... Label machines, thermometers, various packaging machines, communication radios.

Packaging Operator III

Los Banos, CA

$18 - $21.50/hr

Performs inspections for product quality and periodically monitors packaging equipment to maintain ... Label machines, thermometers, various packaging machines, communication radios.

Full-Time Center Associate

Turlock, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $17.25/hr

... and operating copiers, fax machines, binding equipment, laminating machines, and point-of-sale ... Takes action to learn all product and service offerings, alternative solutions, and industry trends

Full-Time Center Associate

Turlock, CA

$15.75 - $17.25/hr

... and operating copiers, fax machines, binding equipment, laminating machines, and point-of-sale ... Takes action to learn all product and service offerings, alternative solutions, and industry trends

Full-Time Center Associate

Turlock, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $17.25/hr

... and operating copiers, fax machines, binding equipment, laminating machines, and point-of-sale ... Takes action to learn all product and service offerings, alternative solutions, and industry trends

Full-Time Center Associate

Turlock, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $17.25/hr

... and operating copiers, fax machines, binding equipment, laminating machines, and point-of-sale ... Takes action to learn all product and service offerings, alternative solutions, and industry trends

Showing results 21-40

Production Associate Machine Operator information

See Merced, CA salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do production associate machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for production associate machine operator in Merced, CA is $19.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a production associate machine operator?

Production Associate Machine Operators are workers responsible for operating and maintaining machinery in manufacturing environments. Their main duties include setting up machines, monitoring production processes, performing quality checks, and troubleshooting equipment issues. They ensure that products are made efficiently and meet quality standards, often working as part of a team on a production line. Safety and attention to detail are important in this role, as is the ability to follow instructions and meet production goals.

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

To thrive as a Production Associate Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with operating machinery, basic computer systems, and safety protocols is typically required, and some roles may prefer certifications such as OSHA training. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions precisely help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production, minimizing errors and maintaining workflow in a manufacturing environment.

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

Production Associate Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent quality while meeting production quotas, adapting to fast-paced environments, and troubleshooting mechanical issues on the fly. To address these, it’s important to develop strong attention to detail, communicate effectively with team members and supervisors, and proactively participate in equipment training sessions. Many employers also encourage operators to suggest process improvements, which can lead to increased efficiency and recognition within the team.

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Production Associate Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Production Associate Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Production Associate Machine Operator job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,441 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Log Yard Operator - 1st Shift

Jamestown, CA • On-site

American Wood Fibers
Paper Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees

$26 - $28/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


American Wood Fibers rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

American Wood Fibers (AWF) is a manufacturer of both consumer and industrial products that are sold to multiple manufacturers as well as pet, agricultural, and home-heating markets. AWF is comprised of 450+ employees and holds operations at 11 locations, generating over $100M in annual sales revenue. We are currently seeking a candidate for the1st Shift Log Yard Operator role in our Jamestown, CAfacility.
Primary duties to include, but not limited to the following:

  1. PRODUCTION

  • Work closely with other shavers to keep production of wood shavings on track to meet shift goals
  • Must keep shavers operational and at their best efficiency at all times - includes filling up the shaver boxes, monitoring equipment, and effectively moving logs around the log yard
  • Cut logs to specifications and maintain an orderly yard for inventory counts
  • Evaluate logs before unloading from freight shipments
  • Monitor the quality of the shavings being produced.
  • Uphold and obey all warnings and safety precautions used in the plant
  1. LOADER/KNUCKLE BOOM/HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
  • Safely operate industrial equipment including: articulated wheel loader, knuckle boom, and skid steer
  • Clean and maintain the machine with regular greasing and cleaning of all necessary systems
  • Coordinate with truck drivers in the yard to maintain a path in and out of the plant, while keeping everyone safe and out of harm's way
  • Responsible for the movement of wood - logs throughout the log yard
  • Must be able to safely operate around people and other machinery
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions
  1. SAFETY
  • Participates in monthly safety meetings.
  • Uses required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Participates in necessary training sessions and achieves satisfactory results on required tests.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Valid Driver's License (Required)
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs.
  • Physical capability to bend, squat, or stoop
  • Previous mobile equipment, forklift, required
EXPERIENCE
Industrial Machine Operating: 1 Year (Preferred)
COMPENSATION
Starting: $26.00 - $28.00 per hour
BENEFITS
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

SCHEDULE
  • 8-hour shift
  • Day Shift
  • Overtime-eligible
LOCATION
  • On-site, one location - Jamestown, CA

For consideration...
For consideration...
Due to the nature of our business, American Wood Fibers requires a tobacco and smoke-free environment. We offer a competitive package to include health, dental, vision and life insurance, plus profit bonus, paid time off and matching 401(k). For more company information, please visit our web site www.awf.com. AWF is an EEO employer.
Corporate Office
9740 Patuxent Woods Drive, Ste. 500
Columbia, MD 21046
800-624-9663 / 410-290-8700
Fax 410-290-6660
Other Locations
Jessup, MD / Schofield, WI / Pella, IA / Lebanon, KY / Clarks, NE / Marysville, CA / Marshall, TX / Circleville, OH / Marion, VA / Jamestown, CA / Laurinburg, NC
Visit us at: www.awf.com

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