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Slitter Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pressman Assistant

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $18/hr

Machines used: Material slitter, label rewinder, and tooling cleaner. Reporting relationships: The Press Operator Assistant reports to the following persons; Press Operators, Production Manager, and ...

Pressman Assistant

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $18/hr

Machines used: Material slitter, label rewinder, and tooling cleaner. Reporting relationships: The Press Operator Assistant reports to the following persons; Press Operators, Production Manager, and ...

Pressman Assistant

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $18/hr

Machines used: Material slitter, label rewinder, and tooling cleaner. Reporting relationships: The Press Operator Assistant reports to the following persons; Press Operators, Production Manager, and ...

Showing results 21-31

Slitter Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do slitter machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for slitter machine operator in California is $18.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a slitter machine operator?

A Slitter Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining slitting machines that cut large rolls of material, such as metal, plastic, or paper, into smaller, specified widths. They ensure precise cuts, monitor machine performance, and conduct quality checks to meet production standards. Additionally, they troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and follow safety protocols to ensure efficient operation.

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

To thrive as a Slitter Machine Operator, you need hands-on mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with experience in a manufacturing environment often preferred. Familiarity with operating slitter machines, understanding of measurement tools (such as calipers and micrometers), and adherence to safety standards are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and the ability to work well in a team setting help operators manage workflow and address issues promptly. These skills ensure efficient machine operation, product quality, and a safe work environment in fast-paced production settings.

What are the main challenges a slitter machine operator may face during their typical workday?

Slitter Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as managing tight production schedules, maintaining precise measurements and tolerances, and troubleshooting machine malfunctions. The role may also require frequent physical tasks, such as lifting heavy rolls and standing for extended periods. Working as part of a team, operators must communicate effectively with supervisors, quality control staff, and maintenance personnel to ensure smooth operations. Adaptability and proactive problem-solving help overcome these challenges and support consistent, high-quality output.

How to become a slitter machine operator?

To become a slitter machine operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should gain experience with manufacturing equipment. Training on specific slitter machines is often provided on the job, and knowledge of safety procedures and mechanical skills are important for success in this role.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Slitter Machine Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,714 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Converting Utility - 3rd Shift

Pratt Industries

Lathrop, CA • On-site

$20.40 - $22.95/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate the unitizer and slitter equipment, including setup, execution of order changes, and cleanup.

  • Verify the accuracy of information entered into computers, check board quality, and ensure proper stacking and unitization.

  • Complete reports related to production, machine status, safety, and quality, and communicate with the wet end regarding adjustments.


Pratt Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 111 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

POSITION TITLE: Converting Utility - 3rd Shift
PAY: ($20.40 - $22.95)
LOCATION: Lathrop, CA
REPORTS TO: Converting Supervisor
SUMMARY
Responsible for all activities associated with operating the unitizer and slitter and corresponding equipment, including setup, operation, cleanup, and recommending improvements to operations.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Learn how to operate the different equipment (Unitizer and Slitter).
  • Enter information into computers to set machine for order changes, scores, speed, stack height, sheet count, and number of outs.
  • Verify accuracy of information in computer.
  • Execute order changes.
  • Cross check board being produced with the corrugator dry end lineup or order scheduling computer display to ensure it is the proper board test, size, scores are properly positioned and have the correct depth, color, and coating.
  • Visually observe and physically check board for quality, including but not limited to the following: cracked scores, cut liner or medium, loose edges or liner, oil, blisters, wrinkles, wash board, warp, clean slits, proper score depth, and appearance.
  • Perform soak tests as needed.
  • Set slitter to bring up the next run as necessary to avoid overruns or underruns.
  • Set-up tear-tape machine and preprint as needed.
  • Communicate messages to the wet end regarding necessary adjustments.
  • Clear jams safely and assist in correcting other problems.
  • Operating the unitizer and corresponding equipment, including accurate placement of bands and stretch wrap in accordance with proper setup techniques.
  • Ensure proper placement of unit tags and cover sheets and correct stacking patterns.
  • Scan barcodes on units going through unitizer.
  • Make neat units with proper number of bands on each unit.
  • Maximize the utilization of equipment by operating the machinery at available capacity and speed.
  • Complete necessary reports in an accurate and timely manner, including but not limited to: Production Data, Machine Operational Status, Safety Data, Quality Data.
  • Ensure unit quantities are correct.
  • Pull excess scrap from units.
  • Operate a forklift in a safe manner when necessary.
  • Turn in maintenance orders to supervision for needed repairs.
  • Be proactive in the maintenance of equipment.
  • Adheres to production schedule.
  • Makes recommendations for optimizing the schedule to meet cost, quality and service goals.
  • Reports any unusual scheduling issues to Supervisor.
  • Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety and maintaining good housekeeping.
  • Additional duties may be assigned by management.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
  • High school diploma or GED.

Candidates are PREFERRED who offer the following:
  • Prior work experience in the corrugated industry.
  • 6 months experience in the Press or Finishing Department.
  • Prior work experience as a forklift operator.

LANGUAGE SKILLS
Able to read and follow instructions on factory masters.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Able to read a tape measure with speed and accuracy. Able to calculate figures and amounts such as percentages, measurement, volume and rate. Able to apply concepts of high school math.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or graphic form. Ability to deal with problems involving one or more concrete variables in standardized situations.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
The individual must have a working knowledge of the following:
  • Equipment design and capabilities that can be translated into efficient operation.
  • Product layouts and production specifications
  • Product quality specifications
  • Quality standards

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
May be required to maintain a current Lift Truck Operator License.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS
The performance of the employee will be measured as follows:
Operating standards - the employee will need to meet or exceed the Operating Standards in the areas of quality, cost, safety, customer satisfaction and productivity. Such standards will be set annually and communicated to the employee.
Personal growth - while the company will provide the tools to assist the employee to grow professionally the responsibility for moving forward lies with the individual. Each year there will be goals developed and agreed to by the employee and his/her superior.
Employee relations - through observations the employee will be evaluated regarding his/her behaviors associated with appropriate human interaction, respect and communication.
Creativity - this will be evaluated by how active the employee is in participating in advancing the business through new and innovative ideas.
Perks of Pratt?
  • Paid Holidays from DAY ONE
  • Insurance benefits and wellness reimbursement program within ONE MONTH of hire
  • 6 Months: PAID vacation days
  • 401K Vesting
  • Open Door policy
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health savings account
  • Perfect Attendance Bonus
  • Referral Program

Pratt Industries is America's 5th largest paper and packaging company with more than 7,000 highly skilled green collar employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability. Pratt Industries is one of the largest corrugated packaging companies in America, with sophisticated manufacturing facilities in more than twenty states. The company operates several of the most modern, cost effective paper mills in the country, as well as a series of sheet and box plants strategically placed throughout the United States offering a wide range of creative packaging solutions. Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by harvesting the urban forest.
Pratt Industries offers competitive compensation plans with incentive opportunities, full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AllState, Pre-Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, paid holidays, childbearing and parental leave.
Pratt Industries provides equal employment [and affirmative action] opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

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