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Punch Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vantedge Medical

NC Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Set up and operate one or more NC punch presses. * Assure the NC is consistently producing quality parts in the most efficient time. * Know basic "G" code manipulation to alter multiple part commands ...

Vantedge Medical - VDB

NC Operator

Stockton, CA

$22 - $32/hr

Set up and operate one or more NC punch presses. * Assure the NC is consistently producing quality parts in the most efficient time. * Know basic "G" code manipulation to alter multiple part commands ...

Punch Bowl Social

Activities Host

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Our activities hosts are the ambassadors and operators of our games. This role is what sets Punch Bowl Social apart from other dining and entertainment concepts. The good news is that your training ...

Punch Bowl Social

Activities Host

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Our activities hosts are the ambassadors and operators of our games. This role is what sets Punch Bowl Social apart from other dining and entertainment concepts. The good news is that your training ...

Punch Bowl Social

Activities Host

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Our activities hosts are the ambassadors and operators of our games. This role is what sets Punch Bowl Social apart from other dining and entertainment concepts. The good news is that your training ...

Punch Bowl Social

Activities Host

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Our activities hosts are the ambassadors and operators of our games. This role is what sets Punch Bowl Social apart from other dining and entertainment concepts. The good news is that your training ...

Vantedge

NC Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Set up and operate one or more NC punch presses. * Assure the NC is consistently producing quality parts in the most efficient time. * Know basic "G" code manipulation to alter multiple part commands ...

Kingspan

Machine Operator

Vista, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

... punch press, press brakes, and welder. * Operates workstations (such as but not limited to ... May oversees and trains new operators in assembly work cells. * Positions workpiece against stops ...

Schuff Steel

Heavy Machine Operator (C)

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

... Punch, Shear, Beam Splitter and Threader. Also assists HMO A's and B's with their equipment. The ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

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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.

Amada Turret Operator Sheet Metal Millennium Metalcraft

Millennium Metalcraft, Inc

Fremont, CA • On-site

$35 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job Title: NC Punch Press Operator (Sheet Metal)

About Millennium Metalcraft
Millennium Metalcraft, Inc. (MMC) is a fast-growing precision manufacturer specializing in sheet metal fabrication, CNC machining, cable & wire processing, and electro-mechanical assembly for leading technology, medical, and commercial OEMs. We operate two modern facilities in Fremont, CA, supporting high-mix, low-volume and scalable production.
We are seeking a NC Punch Press Operator who enjoys hands-on production work and wants to grow within a sheet-metal manufacturing environment.
Important note: This role is focused on sheet metal punch press operation. It is not a CNC mill or lathe machining position and does not involve CAM programming.
Position Overview
The NC Punch Press Operator is responsible for operating numerically controlled turret punch presses to produce precision sheet metal components. This role is production-focused and works from released programs, job travelers, and standard tooling under established processes.
What You’ll Do
Punch Press Operation
  • Operate Amada NC turret punch presses and Amada TOGU tool grinders

  • Load sheet material, verify tooling, and run released NC programs
  • Perform basic to advanced setups and changeovers under lead/operator or programmer direction
  • Monitor part quality during production and make minor adjustments as required
  • Handle parts safely during load/unload and staging
Quality & Inspection
  • Read and follow engineering drawings, job travelers, and work instructions
  • Perform in-process inspection using calipers, micrometers, pin gauges, and height gauges
  • Identify, tag, and report nonconforming material per MMC procedures
Production & Workflow
  • Accurately track part counts, scrap, and job status
  • Communicate tooling, material, or machine issues to leads and supervisors
  • Coordinate with deburr, hardware insertion, forming, and assembly departments
  • Assist with daily machine cleaning and basic preventative maintenance tasks
Safety & Organization
  • Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area
What We’re Looking For
Required
  • Experience operating NC punch presses or similar sheet-metal fabrication equipment

  • Ability to read blueprints and follow written work instructions
  • Basic measurement and inspection skills
  • Strong attention to detail and reliability
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift 30–50 lbs.
Preferred (Nice to Have)
  • Experience with Amada EM-series punch presses and/or TOGU

  • Understanding of sheet-metal fundamentals (grain direction, tooling, punch vs form features)
  • Experience working from travelers in a production environment
  • Familiarity with JobBOSS or other ERP/MRP systems
  • Exposure to ISO 9001 manufacturing environments
Benefits & Growth Opportunities
  • Competitive hourly pay (DOE)
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • Overtime opportunities
If you enjoy precision sheet-metal production and want to build skills in a modern fabrication shop, we’d love to hear from you.