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Technical Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Brex

BizOps Senior Manager (Technical)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$133K - $184K/yr

What You'll Do You'll lead a team of highly technical operators responsible for the systems, automation, and operational infrastructure that power Brex's Operations organization at scale. This role ...

Squint AI

AI Operations Lead

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

You can talk to both a technical engineer and a non-technical operator about the same problem. * You care as much about whether something works as whether it shipped. What You'll Bring * 2-5+ years ...

Skild AI

Technical Writer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

... operators, and developers who deploy our systems in the real world. You will own documentation ... Experience as a technical writer producing documentation in a fast-paced, highly technical ...

Tribune Media

Newscast director

Bakersfield, CA

$18 - $20/hr

The Newscast Director coordinates the efforts of all technical operators during newscasts and other live and recorded productions. * Coordinates the efforts of all technical operators during ...

WOWK-TV

Newscast director

Bakersfield, CA

$18 - $20/hr

The Newscast Director coordinates the efforts of all technical operators during newscasts and other live and recorded productions. * Coordinates the efforts of all technical operators during ...

Aurelius Systems

Technical Recruiter

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Our small team includes engineers, former US military operators, and experts, focused on creating ... We need a Technical Recruiter to run full-cycle recruiting on our hardest engineering searches ...

Nexstar Media Group

Newscast director

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Newscast Director coordinates the efforts of all technical operators during newscasts and other live and recorded productions. * Coordinates the efforts of all technical operators during ...

CPMC LLC

Technical Editor (Secret)

San Diego, CA · On-site

Technical Editors edit, and review technical materials, such as equipment manuals, appendices, or operating and maintenance instructions for cognizant technical editors and may supervise technical ...

Scale AI

Technical Writer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

This role involves collaborating with engineers and operators to translate complex technical knowledge into structured documentation. Responsibilities : • Create and maintain comprehensive training ...

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All JobsTechnical Operator JobsTechnical Operator Jobs in California

Technical Operator information

See California salary details

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How much do technical operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for technical operator in California is $21.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Technical Operator vs Equipment Technician?

AspectTechnical OperatorEquipment Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferredHigh school diploma; technical certifications or associate degree in electronics or maintenance
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production lines, industrial facilitiesMaintenance workshops, industrial sites, manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, energy, and processing industriesCommon in manufacturing, machinery maintenance, and industrial sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between a Technical Operator and an Equipment Technician lies in their focus. Technical Operators primarily monitor and control equipment during production, ensuring smooth operations. Equipment Technicians, on the other hand, focus on maintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting machinery. Both roles require technical knowledge and certifications, but Equipment Technicians typically have more hands-on repair responsibilities. Employers in manufacturing and industrial sectors frequently compare these roles when hiring or defining job responsibilities.

What are the duties of a technical operator?

A technical operator is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining technical equipment and systems, such as manufacturing machinery, production lines, or IT infrastructure. They perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and ensure equipment operates efficiently and safely, often using specialized tools and following safety protocols.

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

To thrive as a Technical Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operations, troubleshooting, and safety protocols, often supported by a technical diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with industry-specific equipment, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and manufacturing software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure smooth production processes, minimize downtime, and maintain safety and quality standards in technical environments.

What does a technical operator do?

A Technical Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining technical equipment, often in industries such as broadcasting, manufacturing, or IT. Their main duties include monitoring equipment performance, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring smooth operation of systems or machinery. Technical Operators may also perform routine maintenance, follow safety protocols, and coordinate with other team members to resolve technical problems efficiently. The specific responsibilities can vary depending on the industry and the type of equipment managed.

What is a technical operator?

A technical operator records geological data with a variety of devices, including electronic, sonic, and seismic machines. Typical job duties include studying reports, compiling information, operating equipment, and evaluating samples. This career requires at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a similar field. Additional qualifications include technical skills and familiarity with relevant computer technology. You can find a job as a technical operator in industries that deal with geological data.

What are some common challenges technical operators face when troubleshooting equipment during live operations?

Technical Operators often encounter challenges such as unexpected equipment malfunctions, tight deadlines, and the need to quickly adapt to evolving technical issues during live operations. These situations require strong problem-solving skills, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and effective communication with team members to minimize downtime. Collaborating closely with engineers, production staff, and other operators is crucial to ensure issues are resolved swiftly and operations remain seamless.
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For Technical Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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Technical Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Technical Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,055 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Camera Operator (Livestream & Live Production) - LA

Upright Citizens Brigade

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Company Description

The Upright Citizens Brigade is home for all things comedy. Whether you're interested in writing, performing, becoming a stronger public speaker, or just love seeing comedy, UCB has you covered! Our highly trained faculty represents the best writers and performers working in comedy today. The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre was founded by Matt Besser, Amy Poehler, Ian Roberts, and Matt Walsh in 1999 and operates Theaters and Training Centers in New York & Los Angeles with Austin and Pittsburgh on its way.

Job Description

The Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) Theatre is seeking experienced freelance Camera Operators to join our production team in Los Angeles and New York. This role is vital to the success of our digital initiatives, capturing high-energy live comedy for real-time livestreams and high-quality archival footage.

Operators will work within a multi-cam environment to deliver dynamic visual storytelling that translates the live theater experience to a digital audience.

Role Details

  • Employment Type: Freelance / Contract

  • Location: Los Angeles, CA 

  • Schedule: Variable; requires evening and weekend availability for show coverage

  • Reporting to: Executive Director / Venue Coordinator

  • $25/hr

Key Responsibilities

  • Live Camera Operation: Operate the Panasonic AG-CX350 as a handheld / mobile camera during live comedy performances, staying nimble and responsive from the first set to the final bow.

  • Active Listening to apply contextual composition while following fast-paced improvisational and scripted comedy.

  • Collaborative Live-Switching: Work in coordination with both the Tech Booth Operator and Live-switcher to provide usable, high-quality shots for real-time cutting and streaming to platforms like YouTube and Vimeo.

  • Assist in the deployment of specialized camera rigs, including camera setups for audience capture or unique show-specific needs like top-down kitchen rigs.

  • Technical Maintenance: Ensure the theater cameras and associated gear are calibrated and ready for use prior to showtime.

Qualifications

  • Proven track record of operating cameras in a live event environment (comedy, theater, or music preferred).

  • Technical fluency with professional HD cameras and live-switching workflows.

  • A strong understanding of comedic timing and framing to anticipate performer movement and punchlines.

  • Adaptability: Ability to stay focused and professional in a high-pressure, live-to-air environment with minimal oversight.

  • Excellent communication skills for working alongside Technical Operators, Technical Leads, Event Staff, and performers.

Additional Information

Preferred Experience

  • Familiarity with the Panasonic AG-CX350 - our primary freemoving camera for live performances. Experience with this model is a plus, but not required.

  • Experience troubleshooting HDMI wireless transmission issues in live settings.

  • 1+ year of on-set camera operation with solid command of core videography fundamentals (ISO, f-stop, shutter speed, etc.).

  • Familiarity with OBS and/or other livestreaming protocols for YouTube and other digital platforms.

To Apply

Please submit:

  • Resume

  • Demo reel or links to live production work

    • Note: File uploads limited to 2 MB per file. If you have larger files, please share a link to a digital storage folder in your application/CV

  • Available start date

- UCB is an equal opportunity employer.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply