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Punch Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Punch prep

Fullerton, CA · On-site

The Punch Prep Technician for Essel is responsible for preparing and setting up equipment and materials for the punch press operation and performing fire caulking tasks. This role involves ensuring ...

Essel

Punch prep

Fullerton, CA · On-site

The Punch Prep Technician for Essel is responsible for preparing and setting up equipment and materials for the punch press operation and performing fire caulking tasks. This role involves ensuring ...

Essel

Punch prep

Fullerton, CA · On-site

The Punch Prep Technician for Essel is responsible for preparing and setting up equipment and materials for the punch press operation and performing fire caulking tasks. This role involves ensuring ...

Essel

Punch prep

Fullerton, CA · On-site

The Punch Prep Technician for Essel is responsible for preparing and setting up equipment and materials for the punch press operation and performing fire caulking tasks. This role involves ensuring ...

Essel

Punch prep

Fullerton, CA · On-site

The Punch Prep Technician for Essel is responsible for preparing and setting up equipment and materials for the punch press operation and performing fire caulking tasks. This role involves ensuring ...

Schuff Steel

Heavy Machine Operator (A)

Stockton, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

  • Medical

Critical to the field of forming material by operation of CNC machines and equipment such as Plasma Arc, NC Punch Plasma, Beam Line Machine, Beam Punch Operator and NC Angle Master. Also operates ...

SCHUFF STEEL CO

Heavy Machine Operator (A)

Stockton, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

  • Medical

Critical to the field of forming material by operation of CNC machines and equipment such as Plasma Arc, NC Punch Plasma, Beam Line Machine, Beam Punch Operator and NC Angle Master. Also operates ...

DBM GLOBAL INC

Heavy Machine Operator (A)

Stockton, CA

$23 - $28/hr

  • Medical

Critical to the field of forming material by operation of CNC machines and equipment such as Plasma Arc, NC Punch Plasma, Beam Line Machine, Beam Punch Operator and NC Angle Master. Also operates ...

W3Global Inc.

Punch Press Operator

Whittier, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Punch Press Operator Location: Whittier, CA Employment Type: Full-Time About Our Client Our Client is a leading precision metal stamping manufacturer specializing in high-quality aerospace components.

D W Mack Co Inc

Punch Press Operator

Azusa, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

W. Mack Co., Inc. is seeking a punch press operator to join our team in Azusa, CA. Responsibilities: * Setup and Operation: Set up and operate punch presses according to instructions and routing ...

D W Mack Co Inc

Punch Press Operator

Azusa, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

W. Mack Co., Inc. is seeking a punch press operator to join our team in Azusa, CA. Responsibilities: * Setup and Operation: Set up and operate punch presses according to instructions and routing ...

D W Mack Co Inc

Punch Press Operator

Azusa, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

W. Mack Co., Inc. is seeking a punch press operator to join our team in Azusa, CA. Responsibilities: * Setup and Operation: Set up and operate punch presses according to instructions and routing ...

PTI Technologies

Punch Press Setup/Operator

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join PTI Technologies in Oxnard, CA, as a Full-Time Punch Press Setup/Operator and immerse yourself in an exciting work environment dedicated to excellence and high performance. You will have the ...

PTI Technologies

Punch Press Setup/Operator

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$19.03 - $24.91/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join PTI Technologies in Oxnard, CA, as a Full-Time Punch Press Setup/Operator and immerse yourself in an exciting work environment dedicated to excellence and high performance. You will have the ...

PTI Technologies

Punch Press Setup/Operator

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$19.03 - $24.91/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join PTI Technologies in Oxnard, CA, as a Full-Time Punch Press Setup/Operator and immerse yourself in an exciting work environment dedicated to excellence and high performance. You will have the ...

PayCruit, LLC

Punch Press Stamp Operator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$22/hr

  • Medical

A punch press operator Stamp operator sets up, operates, and maintains industrial machines that use immense pressure and specialized dies to cut, bend, or shape raw materials like sheet metal. They ...

Andersen Industries, Inc.

Be Seen First

Press Brake, Laser and Turret Punch Operators

Victorville, CA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

CNC Turret Punch - ability to set up the machine, including loading, sharpening, and maintenance of tooling. * Loading material, unloading of punched/laser cut parts, deburring, and stacking.

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All JobsPunch Operator JobsPunch Operator Jobs in California

Punch Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$19

$24

How much do punch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for punch operator in California is $19.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a punch operator?

Punch Operators are skilled workers who operate punch press machines to cut, shape, or form metal and other materials. They set up the machine, position materials, and ensure that the finished parts meet specific measurements and quality standards. Punch Operators are commonly employed in manufacturing and metalworking industries, and their role is essential in creating components for products like automotive parts, appliances, and machinery. They must follow safety procedures, perform routine maintenance on equipment, and troubleshoot minor mechanical issues as needed.

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

To thrive as a Punch Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with metal fabrication or manufacturing processes, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with punch press machines, safety protocols, and quality inspection tools like micrometers or calipers is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and reliability help Punch Operators stand out on the shop floor. These competencies ensure safe, efficient production and high-quality output in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by punch operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Punch Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision during repetitive tasks, handling machine malfunctions, and managing production deadlines. Staying attentive to detail is crucial to prevent errors and material wastage. Regular equipment maintenance and clear communication with supervisors and maintenance teams help resolve issues promptly. Developing a routine for quality checks and collaborating with team members can also ensure efficient workflow and product consistency.

What is the difference between Punch Operator vs Die Cutter?

AspectPunch OperatorDie Cutter
Required CredentialsBasic technical training, certification in machine operationTechnical training, certification in die cutting machines
Work EnvironmentFactories, printing presses, manufacturing unitsPrinting plants, packaging industries, manufacturing units
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, printing, packagingPrinting, packaging, label production

The Punch Operator and Die Cutter roles share similarities in working environments and required certifications, often found in manufacturing and printing industries. While Punch Operators focus on operating punching machines to create holes or shapes, Die Cutters specialize in using die cutting machines to cut complex shapes from materials. Both roles are essential in production lines, but Die Cutters typically handle more intricate designs and require specific die cutting machine skills.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Punch Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Punch Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,716 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Punch prep

Essel

Fullerton, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Summary: The Punch Prep Technician for Essel is responsible for preparing and setting up equipment and materials for the punch press operation and performing fire caulking tasks. This role involves ensuring all components are accurately prepared to meet production standards, maintaining equipment, performing fire caulking to ensure fire safety compliance, and adhering to safety protocols.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Setup and Preparation:
    • Prepare and set up punch press machines according to production requirements.
    • Load materials into machines and ensure proper alignment and calibration.
    • Perform pre-operation inspections to verify that equipment is functioning correctly.
  • Fire Caulking:
    • Apply fire-resistant caulking to designated areas to maintain fire barriers and prevent the spread of fire.
    • Ensure that caulking materials meet fire safety codes and standards.
    • Inspect and repair existing caulking to maintain effective fire resistance.
  • Maintenance and Troubleshooting:
    • Conduct routine maintenance and cleaning of punch press machines.
    • Troubleshoot and resolve minor issues with equipment and materials.
    • Report major malfunctions or equipment failures to the maintenance team.
  • Quality Control:
    • Inspect materials and finished products to ensure they meet quality standards.
    • Make adjustments to machine settings as needed to achieve desired results.
    • Document and report any discrepancies or quality issues to the supervisor.
  • Safety and Compliance:
    • Follow all safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
    • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhere to safety regulations.
    • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
    • Ensure fire caulking tasks comply with relevant fire safety codes and regulations.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or relevant training is a plus.
  • Previous experience working with punch press machines or in a manufacturing environment is preferred.
  • Experience with fire caulking or knowledge of fire safety codes is highly desirable.
  • Basic understanding of mechanical systems and machine operation.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and blueprints.
  • Proficient in using measurement tools and gauges.

Skills:
  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to follow instructions accurately.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to [specific weight, e.g., 50 pounds].
  • Standing for extended periods and performing repetitive tasks.
  • Manual dexterity and the ability to operate machinery.

Apply