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Punch Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

Heavy Machine Operator (B)

Stockton, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $22.50/hr

  • Medical

... as M/S Punch, NC Drill, Roll Break and Press Brake. Also operates machines under HMO C ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

... 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 ...

Heavy Machine Operator (B)

Stockton, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $22.50/hr

  • Medical

... as M/S Punch, NC Drill, Roll Break and Press Brake. Also operates machines under HMO C ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Forklift Operator - 2nd Shift

Cypress, CA · On-site

$21.54/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Title Forklift Operator - 2nd Shift Position Overview Find your future with Shaw Industries ... Hrs fall to in punch day, Observed Calendar, shift starts PM Shaw Industries is an equal ...

... as (Punch Press, Press Brake, Turret, Roller, shear etc.) • First article inspection • ... Machine Operator I • Observes operation of machine and verifies conformance of formed or cut ...

Machine Operator

North Highlands, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We are currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team. Experience is not required but ... Utilizes a ruler, safety knife, and hole punch during splicing procedure (tools are used at other ...

Machine Operator

North Highlands, CA

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We are currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team. Experience is not required but ... Utilizes a ruler, safety knife, and hole punch during splicing procedure (tools are used at other ...

Machine Operator

North Highlands, CA

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We are currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team. Experience is not required but ... Utilizes a ruler, safety knife, and hole punch during splicing procedure (tools are used at other ...

Machine Operator

North Highlands, CA

$18 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We are currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team. Experience is not required but ... Utilizes a ruler, safety knife, and hole punch during splicing procedure (tools are used at other ...

Machine Operator

Gardena, CA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Machine Operator Reports: Production Manager Employment Type: Full-time Classification: Nonexempt ... Cut, punch, notch, or perforate material to length and specification as required by the job order

Job Overview: We are looking for a motivated Machine Operator Trainee to join our in-house ... Get hands-on training on the safe operation of our laminating, chopping, punch press, and other ...

Machine Operator

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

* Set up, operate, and tend machines to saw, cut, shear, slit, punch, crimp, notch, bend, or straighten metal or plastic material. * Read work orders or production schedules to determine specifications.

Showing results 41-60

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 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:

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.

Heavy Machine Operator (B)

SCHUFF STEEL CO

Stockton, CA

$21.50 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical

Posted 29 days ago


Schuff Steel rating

4.9

Company rating: 4.9 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Employee Value Proposition 

Working for a world-class leader in building structures and bridges, a Schuff Steel HMO-B brings his/her expertise and knowledge in fabrication to build some of the most complex and high-profile projects in the commercial building, bridge and industrial sectors. Critical to the field of forming material by operation of non-CNC machines and equipment such as M/S Punch, NC Drill, Roll Break and Press Brake.  Also operates machines under HMO C classification.  The HMO-B utilizes a high degree of proficiency while utilizing full skills of the trade including knowledge and understanding of non-CNC machines and equipment. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. 

In return, the Company will offer competitive market-based compensation and comprehensive health insurance benefits.  We are committed to professional development and growing our business.  We are looking for a professional with a growth mindset who desires a progressive long-term career.

Core Responsibilities

  • Layout, read, interpret blueprints, shop drawings and other company documents. 
  • Operates heavy steel fabrication machinery according to company requirements.
  • Load and unload equipment with material manually and through the use of an overhead crane or magnet. 
  • Perform daily preventative maintenance.  
  • Troubleshoot, properly mark and stamp materials. 
  • Perform daily cleaning of machines. 
  • Locate parts and supplies for machine operation and grind material.
  • Keeps work area organized and clean.
  • Transport material by a crane as needed and required.
  • Must adhere to and follow all safety rules and PPE requirements

Education/Training - Work Experience

High school diploma or general education degree (GED), and/or 12 months experience; completion of a closely related vocational training course through an accredited school may substitute for the required experience. 

Specialized Knowledge – Certificates & Licenses

  • Equipment Knowledge & Skills – includes the operation of non-CNC machines and equipment such as M/S Punch, NC Drill, Roll Break and Press Brake Also operates machines under HMO C Classification. Overhead cranes and forklifts
  • Language Skills:  Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Mathematical Skills:  Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide into all units of measure.
  • Reasoning Ability:  Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.  Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
  • Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:  None

DBM Global including its U.S. subsidiaries is an Equal Opportunity Employer with an Affirmative Action Plan

*Recruiters* - Resumes submitted without current/valid vendor agreement will become property of DBM Global Inc. Any recruiting/staffing firm or agency wishing to do business with DBM Global must contact the Talent Acquisition Department at (602) 252-7787.   Recruiting/staffing firms may NOT contact hiring managers directly.  Firms that do not honor this request will be removed from consideration.


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