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Test Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Antora Energy

R&D Test Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $26.25/hr

We are looking for a self-driven, safety-minded R&D Test Operator to support round-the-clock testing of full-scale and subscale experiments as we move rapidly from development to commercialization on ...

Antora Energy

R&D Test Operator

San Jose, CA

$21.50 - $26.25/hr

We are looking for a self-driven, safety-minded R&D Test Operator to support round-the-clock testing of full-scale and subscale experiments as we move rapidly from development to commercialization on ...

Antora Energy

R&D Test Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$35 - $41/hr

We are looking for a self-driven, safety-minded R&D Test Operator to support round-the-clock testing of full-scale and subscale experiments as we move rapidly from development to commercialization on ...

AeroVironment

Flight Test Operator II

Moorpark, CA · On-site

$23 - $35/hr

Worker Type Regular Summary The Flight Test Operator II is responsible for performing functional flight tests of AeroVironment's Unmanned Air Vehicles and equipment for quality assurance purposes.

AeroVironment, Inc.

Flight Test Operator II

Moorpark, CA · On-site

$23 - $35/hr

Worker Type Regular Summary The Flight Test Operator II is responsible for performing functional flight tests of AeroVironment's Unmanned Air Vehicles and equipment for quality assurance purposes.

Raytheon

FPO Test Operator- 2nd Shift (S3)

Goleta, CA

$27 - $32/hr

Raytheon Vision Systems (RVS) is seeking a detail-oriented and skilled Focal Plane Test Operator to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the setup, operation, and execution ...

Raytheon

FPO Test Operator S3 - 1st shift

Goleta, CA

$27 - $32/hr

Raytheon Vision Systems (RVS) is seeking a detail-oriented and skilled Focal Plane Test Operator to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the setup, operation, and execution ...

Pivotal

Flight Test Operator I

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Execute test plans with unmanned aircraft to test and optimize BlackFly's operational system and validate new hardware and software changes * Assemble, preflight, and maintain aircraft and ground ...

Pivotal

Flight Test Operator I

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Execute test plans with unmanned aircraft to test and optimize BlackFly's operational system and validate new hardware and software changes * Assemble, preflight, and maintain aircraft and ground ...

Pivotal

Flight Test Operator I

Palo Alto, CA

$80K - $90K/yr

Execute test plans with unmanned aircraft to test and optimize BlackFly's operational system and validate new hardware and software changes * Assemble, preflight, and maintain aircraft and ground ...

Zipline

Flight Test Operator - Esparto,CA

Esparto, CA · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

About You and The Role You are a hands-on Flight Test Operator focused on executing high-volume flight testing that proves the safety, reliability, and operational readiness of Zipline's aircraft and ...

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All JobsTest Operator JobsTest Operator Jobs in California

Test Operator information

See California salary details

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$19

$29

How much do test operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for test operator in California is $19.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a test operator?

Test Operators are professionals responsible for conducting tests on products, equipment, or systems to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. They set up testing equipment, follow detailed procedures, and record data from the tests. Test Operators may work in industries such as manufacturing, electronics, or aerospace, and often collaborate with engineers to troubleshoot issues. Their role is crucial for identifying defects and ensuring that products function correctly before reaching customers.

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

To thrive as a Test Operator, you need a keen attention to detail, basic technical knowledge in electronics or mechanics, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with testing equipment, data recording systems, and sometimes certifications such as IPC or specific safety training are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and reliability help Test Operators excel in identifying issues and working efficiently within a team. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring product quality, safety, and seamless operation in manufacturing or laboratory environments.

What are some common challenges faced by test operators, and how can they effectively address them?

Test Operators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected test equipment malfunctions, maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines, and adapting to frequent changes in test procedures or product specifications. Effective communication with engineering and quality assurance teams is crucial for resolving technical issues quickly. Staying organized and following detailed documentation helps minimize errors, while ongoing training ensures familiarity with evolving technologies and testing protocols.

What is the difference between Test Operator vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectTest OperatorQuality Control Inspector
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; technical training often preferredHigh school diploma; certifications in quality standards beneficial
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or production facilities, operating testing equipmentInspection areas within manufacturing, using measurement tools
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, electronics, automotive industriesUsed across manufacturing, aerospace, consumer goods sectors

Test Operators focus on running tests and operating testing equipment to ensure product functionality, while Quality Control Inspectors examine finished products for defects and adherence to standards. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and often work closely to maintain product quality.

How to get a job as a test operator?

To become a test operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and some technical skills related to the specific industry, such as electronics or machinery operation. Relevant experience, attention to detail, and familiarity with testing equipment or software can improve job prospects. Certifications in quality control or technical fields may also be beneficial.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Test Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Test Operator job openings:

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

For Test Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Test Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Test Operator job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 11% Temporary, 28% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,495 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

R&D Test Operator

San Jose, CA • On-site

Antora Energy
Industrial Machinery Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Antora Energyexternal

$21.50 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Antora Energy delivers affordable, reliable energy to industry, data centers, and the grid. Our thermal batteries turn low-cost electricity into always-on heat and power, without supply-constrained critical minerals or multi-year construction timelines.
We are growing our company with people who put team and mission first, value connection through laughter and joy, and work with humility and openness. We are committed to building a diverse, passionate, and creative team dedicated to a future powered by abundant, clean, low-cost energy.
Position Summary
Antora has developed a first-of-its-kind solid-state thermal battery to deliver zero-carbon industrial heat and power at scale. We are looking for a self-driven, safety-minded R&D Test Operator to support round-the-clock testing of full-scale and subscale experiments as we move rapidly from development to commercialization on novel thermal battery products.
You will join the R&D Test Engineering Team, working hands-on with engineers, operators, and technicians at our R&D hub in San Jose, CA. You will master SCADA and HMI controls to operate high-power, high-temperature test systems during in-person and remote operator shifts, perform physical install and uninstall of test hardware, execute pre- and post-flight checklists, and contribute to preventative maintenance and continuous improvement of the team's test infrastructure.
This is a full-time, site-based role. Primary shifts may include nights, weekends, remote on-call coverage, and overtime to support 24/7 testing.
Roles & Responsibilities
  • Operate high-power, high-temperature (>2000 °C) full-scale and subscale test systems via SCADA/HMI interfaces during in-person and remote operator shifts.
  • Monitor system health, respond to alarms, recognize unsafe conditions, and execute safe shutdowns when required.
  • Perform physical install and uninstall of test articles and execute pre- and post-flight checklists to ensure clean execution of experiments.
  • Support commissioning of full-scale thermal energy storage (TES) modules, subscale test rigs, and new or upgraded balance of plant systems.
  • Perform preventative maintenance and basic troubleshooting across mechanical, electrical, controls/instrumentation, and network systems.
  • Identify and implement continuous improvements to test infrastructure, checklists, and operating procedures.
  • Take detailed operational logs and document anomalies for clear communication with test engineering and product development teams.
  • Read mechanical and electrical schematics and assist with building, installing, troubleshooting, and repairing balance of plant systems.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for the R&D team during off-hours operator shifts.
  • Provide on-call and emergency response support for the site during designated shifts.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-focused work environment.
  • Occasional travel to support commissioning, operation, and troubleshooting at other Antora sites as needed.

Key Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED (AA/AS in a technical field preferred).
  • Experience operating industrial plants or test equipment via SCADA, HMI, or similar control systems, with the ability to build deep proficiency quickly.
  • Demonstrated discipline in following and improving structured procedures, checklists, and SOPs.
  • Hands-on experience installing, removing, troubleshooting, and repairing industrial equipment (e.g., motors, VFDs, pumps, valves, sensors).
  • Familiarity with instrumentation such as RTDs, thermocouples, and transmitters.
  • Comfortable using hand tools and basic diagnostic equipment (e.g., multimeters, gas sensors).
  • Ability to work independently and make sound judgment calls during remote and off-hours shifts.
  • Strong attention to detail and clear written and verbal communication skills.
  • Comfortable with basic computer tools and collaboration software (e.g., Slack, Google Suite, Notion).
  • Comfortable with leveraging AI-based tools (Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini, Notion, etc.) to boost productivity and automate processes.
  • Willingness to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, remote on-call shifts, and overtime to support 24/7 testing

Additional Qualifications Desired
  • Technical training or degree in mechanical, electrical, automotive, or related disciplines (or equivalent experience).
  • Experience with preventative maintenance programs (planning, tracking, and executing PM schedules).
  • Experience with high-temperature, high-power industrial systems (e.g., energy, thermal processing, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, or similar environments).
  • Exposure to a wide range of subsystems (thermal, fluids, electrical, controls) and instrumentation (TCs, RTDs, optical sensors, flow meters, load cells, etc.).
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols and networking (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, HART, CAN) and PLC systems.
  • Lift operations experience (forklift, rigging, crane operation).
  • Strong troubleshooting instincts and ability to develop quick, safe solutions in real time.
  • Experience with basic data analysis and reporting

Work Location: Onsite - San Jose, CA
Salary Range: $35-41/hr
Salary Basis: Hourly
Please note that the salary range listed above reflects Antora Energy's estimated pay for this position. The actual salary offered will be within the posted range and determined based on several factors including but not limited to a candidate's experiences, credentials and expertise, as they pertain to the position's requirements.
In addition to a competitive base salary, Antora Energy's Total Rewards program includes equity compensation in the form of stock options, a premium health benefits package with life and disability insurance, a 401K plan with employer contributions, flexible spending accounts, and an industry leading paid-time-off policy that features flexible and inclusive holiday observance, as well as paid volunteer time off.
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When it comes to stopping climate change, we need everyone. We believe that having a diversity of backgrounds and experiences strengthens all of us, and we strive to create an environment where every one of us is empowered to create meaningful change.

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