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Torch Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Rock plant operator - Includes operating various controls within the rock plant to control the ... Torch, Hand Tools, Computer and CB Radio. Physical Demands & Work Environment: The physical demands ...

Hot Plant/Crusher Operator

Winton, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $37.98/hr

Rock plant operator - Includes operating various controls within the rock plant to control the ... Torch, Hand Tools, Computer and CB Radio. Physical Demands & Work Environment: The physical demands ...

Will Call Operator

Oroville, CA · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

The Will Call Operator is responsible for preparing customer orders, stocking materials, and ... Exposure to paint fumes, carbon dust, torch fumes, and varying noise levels may occur. * Fast-paced ...

Bogie Weld Robot Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

The operator will also perform visual inspections, monitor equipment performance, and support ... Working knowledge of torch, MIG welding, plasma equipment, resistance welding (manual and robotic ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Torch and Induction braze qualifications per applicable codes * Supports manufacturing process ... from operators * Specify tooling or equipment required to manufacture product per customer ...

Journeyman

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... as operating within company outlined safety standards. Journeymen will creat client reports via ... Operate tools and equipment including Leister welder, hot air gun, and propane torch (preferred)

Showing results 21-40

Torch Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$18

$24

How much do torch operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for torch operator in California is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Torch Operator, you need a solid understanding of metal cutting techniques, blueprint reading, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with oxy-fuel cutting equipment, plasma torches, and sometimes CNC systems is typically required, along with relevant safety certifications like OSHA. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving skills help Torch Operators excel and work safely. These skills are crucial for ensuring precise cuts, maintaining workplace safety, and efficiently meeting production demands.

What are some common safety challenges faced by torch operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Torch Operators often work with high-temperature equipment and flammable materials, making safety a top concern. Common challenges include managing sparks, handling hot metal, and working in environments with limited ventilation. To address these issues, operators should consistently use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as flame-resistant clothing, gloves, and face shields, and follow strict safety protocols. Regular safety training and clear communication with team members are also essential to minimize risks and ensure a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Torch Operator vs Welder?

AspectTorch OperatorWelder
Required CredentialsOSHA certification, technical trainingWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, CWI)
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilitiesConstruction sites, fabrication shops
Industry UsageMetal cutting, fabrication, maintenanceMetal joining, structural welding
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Torch Operators and Welders work with metal in industrial settings, Torch Operators primarily focus on cutting and heating metals using torches, requiring specialized training and certifications. Welders specialize in joining metals through welding techniques, often holding welding certifications. Their work environments overlap but differ in specific tasks and skill sets, making these roles distinct yet related in metal fabrication industries.

What is a torch operator?

Torch operators are skilled workers who use cutting torches or thermal cutting equipment to cut, trim, or remove metal parts in manufacturing, construction, or demolition settings. They typically work with materials like steel or iron, following blueprints or specifications to make precise cuts. Torch operators must understand safety procedures and be able to handle high-temperature equipment safely. Their work is essential in preparing metal for fabrication, repair, or recycling.
What are popular job titles related to Torch Operator jobs in California? For Torch Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Torch Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Torch Operator jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Torch Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,674 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

$31.65 - $37.98/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Purpose
To operate, repair, and maintain everything pertaining to the daily operation of an aggregate and asphalt facility.  
Focus & Scope
Essential duties and responsibilities, i.e. those which are basic, necessary, and an integral part of the job, are indicated below:
Company/Entity
  1. Rock plant operator - Includes operating various controls within the rock plant to control the production of rock products.
  2. Asphalt plant operator - Includes operating various controls in the asphalt plant to create an asphalt mix, communicating with truck drivers, and loading trucks from the plant or silos.
  3. Repairman/Mechanic - Includes repairing and maintaining the workings of the rock plant, asphalt plant, belt line, equipment, and the scale house.
  4. Equipment operator - includes operating equipment for the purpose of mining, stockpiling, cleaning, repairing, dust control, and maintenance in the plant site.
  5. Laborer - includes shoveling, operating equipment, washing, and maintaining the cleanliness of the plant site.  
  6. Miscellaneous - includes other various tasks your supervisor may ask of you pertaining to the operation of the facility.

Role Qualifications and Requirements
 
  • Cutting, torching, grinding, welding, rigging, use of hand tools, operation of equipment, knowledge of aggregate materials and products, ability to safely and productively work in a team environment.

Equipment Used, Physical Demands, and Work Environment
Equipment Used:
 
  • Wheel Loader, Excavator, Utility Truck, Tractor, Skid Steer, Dozer, Telescopic Handler Forklift, Articulating Boom Lift, Haul Truck, Water Truck, Welder, Torch, Hand Tools, Computer and CB Radio.
     
Physical Demands & Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
 
  • Physical: Employees may experience the following physical demands for extended periods of time: shoveling, lifting up to 50 pounds, sitting or standing for various lengths of time, and climbing of stairs. 
  • WORK ENVIRONMENT
    Plant and belt line locations may contain dust, fumes, debris, low to loud levels of noise and extreme weather conditions including excessive heat or cold and rain prevalent at times.

HOURLY BASE SALARY RANGE:
$31.65 - $37.98
The range displayed reflects the range the company reasonable expects to pay for the position. The actual base salary is subject to variation due to the role, level, geographic location, relevant education, training, or experience, among other factors.
Employer Disclosure Statement        
The above statements and job description is intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed within this job.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and tasks.  Other similar or additional duties are performed as assigned.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Teichert and its subsidiaries are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. Individuals seeking employment at our company are considered without regards to age, ancestry, color, race, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, national origin, protected family care or medical leave status, religion, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. 
Notice to Staffing Agencies
Teichert, Inc. and its subsidiaries (Teichert) will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. Any unsolicited resumes sent to Teichert, including unsolicited resumes sent to a Teichert mailing address, fax machine or email address, directly to Teichert employees, or to Teichert's resume database will be considered Teichert property. Teichert will NOT pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume. Teichert will consider any candidate for whom an Agency has submitted an unsolicited resume to have been referred by the Agency free of any charges or fees. Agencies must obtain advance written approval from Teichert's recruiting function to submit resumes, and then only in conjunction with a valid fully-executed contract for service and in response to a specific job opening. Teichert will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have such agreement in place. Agency agreements will only be valid if in writing and signed by Teichert's Human Resources Representative or his/ her designee. No other Teichert employee is authorized to bind Teichert to any agreement regarding the placement of candidates by Agencies.