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Setup Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Spherion Staffing Corporation

Be Seen First

CNC Setup Technician / Operator / Programmer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

We are seeking a skilled CNC Machinist lathe machinist (Setup / Operator / Programmer) with at least 3 years of hands-on experience. San Jose/Fremont Monday-Friday with possible overtime 5am-1:30pm ...

New

A1J Technologies LLC

CNC Mill 5 Axis Setup

San Jose, CA

$25.75 - $34.25/hr

CNC Mill 5-Axis Setup/Operator Location: San Jose, CA Reports To: Senior CNC Mill Programmer FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary The CNC Mill 5-Axis Setup/Operator is responsible for setting up ...

A1J Technologies LLC

CNC Mill 5 Axis Setup

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $34.25/hr

CNC Mill 5-Axis Setup/Operator Location: San Jose, CA Reports To: Senior CNC Mill Programmer FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary The CNC Mill 5-Axis Setup/Operator is responsible for setting up ...

A1J Technologies

CNC Mill 5 Axis Setup

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25.75 - $34.25/hr

CNC Mill 5-Axis Setup/Operator Location: San Jose, CA Reports To: Senior CNC Mill Programmer FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary The CNC Mill 5-Axis Setup/Operator is responsible for setting up ...

ABC Sheet Metal

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CNC Machinist - Setup, 2nd Shift

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

CNC Setup Operator / CNC Machinist - Haas 3-Axis & 5-Axis Mills Anaheim/Fullerton Area | 2nd Shift | M-Th 2pm to 12:30am | Four/Ten Schedule ABC Sheet Metal is seeking an experienced CNC Setup ...

New

ABC Sheet Metal

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CNC Setup Machinist - 1st Shift

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

CNC Setup Operator / CNC Machinist - Haas 3-Axis & 5-Axis Mills Anaheim/Fullerton Area 1st Shift M-F 6am to 2:30pm $30-$45/hr ABC Sheet Metal is seeking an experienced CNC Setup Operator / CNC ...

SkillSource

CNC Setup Machinist

Nevada City, CA

$22 - $30/hr

Our client is looking for a solid CNC setup operator. Must be able to read blue prints Must be able to not only operate but "setup" CNC Mills or lathes Must know his G&M codes Must know his "speeds ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The employee in this position has been cross trained and is fluent in setup, operation, and troubleshooting the various equipment to produce a quality parts. The advanced machine operator can ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The employee in this position has been cross trained and is fluent in setup, operation, and ... The advanced machine operator can independently perform these tasks with minimal input from the ...

Kaizen Stackup

CNC Setup/Machinist

Orange, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

CNC Machinist (Setup & Operator) Grow your skills. Work on precision parts. Be part of a team that takes pride in what they build. We're looking for a motivated CNC Milling Machinist who wants more ...

Kaizen Stackup

CNC Setup/Machinist

Orange, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

CNC Machinist (Setup & Operator) Grow your skills. Work on precision parts. Be part of a team that takes pride in what they build. We're looking for a motivated CNC Milling Machinist who wants more ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The employee in this position has been cross trained and is fluent in setup, operation, and troubleshooting the various equipment to produce a quality parts. The advanced machine operator can ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The employee in this position has been cross trained and is fluent in setup, operation, and troubleshooting the various equipment to produce a quality parts. The advanced machine operator can ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA

$21.91/hr

The employee in this position has been cross trained and is fluent in setup, operation, and troubleshooting the various equipment to produce a quality parts. The advanced machine operator can ...

Filtration Group Corp

Machine Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.91/hr

The employee in this position has been cross trained and is fluent in setup, operation, and troubleshooting the various equipment to produce a quality parts. The advanced machine operator can ...

GROUPE SEB

Machine Set Up Operator

Montebello, CA · On-site

$25/hr

We are seeking a skilled Machine Setup Operator to configure and operate complex fabrication equipment supporting the production of professional coffee brewers. The ideal candidate has experience ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSetup Operator JobsSetup Operator Jobs in California

Setup Operator information

What is a setup operator?

A Setup Operator is a skilled worker responsible for preparing, configuring, and adjusting machinery or equipment for production runs in manufacturing environments. They ensure that machines are set up according to specific job requirements, including selecting tools, calibrating settings, and running test cycles to verify proper operation. Setup Operators also troubleshoot issues, perform minor maintenance, and may assist with quality checks to ensure products meet standards. Their role is crucial for efficient production and minimizing downtime.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a setup operator?

To thrive as a Setup Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with manufacturing processes, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Proficiency with CNC machines, calibration tools, and quality inspection systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and the ability to follow precise instructions make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient machine setup, minimize downtime, and maintain product quality and safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by setup operators during equipment changeovers, and how can they be addressed?

Setup Operators often encounter challenges such as tight production schedules, varying equipment specifications, and ensuring precision during machinery changeovers. These tasks require attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills to minimize downtime and maintain product quality. Effective communication with maintenance teams and line supervisors is crucial to quickly resolve mechanical or technical issues. Regular training and familiarity with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) can also help Setup Operators manage these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Setup Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectSetup OperatorMachine Operator
Primary RolePrepares and sets up machinery for production runsOperates and monitors machinery during production
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certifications in equipment setupRequires operational training, sometimes certifications depending on machinery
Work EnvironmentWork in manufacturing or production facilities, often in a setup or changeover phaseWork in manufacturing lines, focusing on continuous operation
Industry UsageCommon in industries with complex machinery setups like plastics, metal, or electronicsWidespread across manufacturing sectors for ongoing production

While both Setup Operators and Machine Operators work in manufacturing environments, Setup Operators focus on preparing and configuring equipment before production, requiring specialized setup skills. Machine Operators handle the day-to-day operation of machinery, ensuring smooth production flow. Understanding these roles helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Setup Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Setup Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

CNC Setup Technician / Operator / Programmer

Spherion Staffing Corporation

Fremont, CA • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

We are seeking a skilled CNC Machinist lathe machinist (Setup / Operator / Programmer) with at least 3 years of hands-on experience.


San Jose/Fremont

Monday-Friday with possible overtime

5am-1:30pm or 1:30pm-10pm


Responsibilities

  • Perform full machine setups including mounting workholding (vices, chucks, fixtures), setting tool offsets, loading tooling, and establishing zero points.
  • Run production components safely while maintaining tight tolerances, monitoring tool wear, and adjusting wear offsets as needed.
  • Write, edit, or optimize programs (G-code / M-code) directly at the machine control or via CAM software to improve cycle times and part quality.
  • Inspect first-piece and in-process parts using precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, bore gauges).
  • Diagnose minor setup or programming issues and perform routine machine maintenance.

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum 3 years of CNC setup, operation, and programming experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Proficient in reading engineering drawings, specs, and standard Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Mastered the use of standard precision shop measurement equipment.
  • Strong commitment to shop safety, 5S standards, and quality control procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

  • 3+ years in CNC setup, operation, and programming.

Company Description

We're a national recruiting and staffing enterprise that blends the resources of the world's largest talent company with the local insights of our independent franchise owners. A pioneer in the staffing industry, we’ve been providing companies with the workforce solutions they need for over 80 years while helping people find jobs and build careers where they can thrive.

Spherion Staffing logo

About Spherion Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

SPHERION IS A NATIONAL RECRUITING AND STAFFING ENTERPRISE THAT BRINGS THE POWER OF LOCAL TO YOU THROUGH A NETWORK OF EMPOWERED FRANCHISE OWNERS.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, LA, US

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