1

Traveling Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator I

Corona, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for performing simple production-related packaging and labeling ... Travelers, Work Instructions and/or Customer drawings). * Completes the checklist(s) and other ...

New

Machine Operator I

Corona, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for performing simple production-related packaging and labeling ... Travelers, Work Instructions and/or Customer drawings). * Completes the checklist(s) and other ...

New

Machine Operator I

Corona, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for performing simple production-related packaging and labeling ... Travelers, Work Instructions and/or Customer drawings). * Completes the checklist(s) and other ...

New

Machine Operator I

Corona, CA

$17.50 - $21/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for performing simple production-related packaging and labeling ... Travelers, Work Instructions and/or Customer drawings). * Completes the checklist(s) and other ...

New

Machine Operator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Maintain accurate records to ensure traveler and quality documents are correct and all parts are ... operating across North America and Asia. As a nationally and locally certified Minority Business ...

Machine Operator

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Maintain accurate records to ensure traveler and quality documents are correct, all parts are ... operating across North America and Asia. As a nationally and locally certified Minority Business ...

Machine Operator

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Maintain accurate records to ensure traveler and quality documents are correct and all parts are ... operating across North America and Asia. As a nationally and locally certified Minority Business ...

Machine Operator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Maintain accurate records to ensure traveler and quality documents are correct, all parts are ... operating across North America and Asia. As a nationally and locally certified Minority Business ...

Showing results 21-40

Traveling Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do traveling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for traveling machine operator in California is $17.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a traveling machine operator?

Traveling Machine Operators are skilled workers who operate and maintain machinery at various job sites, often traveling between different locations as required by their employer. Their main responsibilities include setting up, running, and troubleshooting industrial machines used in manufacturing, construction, or other specialized industries. These operators must be adaptable, able to work with different types of equipment, and willing to spend time away from home. Safety and attention to detail are crucial, as they often work in environments where precision and adherence to safety protocols are essential.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a traveling machine operator?

To thrive as a Traveling Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, experience with industrial machinery, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring vocational training. Familiarity with equipment-specific controls, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA or CDL for transportation are typical requirements. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working in diverse locations and teams. These abilities ensure safe, efficient machine operation and adaptability across various job sites, which are crucial for productivity and safety.

What challenges do traveling machine operators face at different job sites?

Traveling Machine Operators often encounter the challenge of adapting quickly to various job site conditions, equipment models, and safety protocols. Each location may have unique operational procedures or terrain, requiring operators to be flexible and proactive in learning new systems. Additionally, working with new teams frequently demands strong communication skills and the ability to integrate smoothly with diverse groups. Successfully handling these challenges not only ensures operational efficiency but also enhances professional reputation and future opportunities.

What is the difference between Traveling Machine Operator vs Mobile Equipment Operator?

AspectTraveling Machine OperatorMobile Equipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific licensesCommercial driver’s license (CDL), safety certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial plants, remote locationsConstruction sites, warehouses, transportation hubs
Industry UsageHeavy machinery operation across various industriesOperating mobile equipment like forklifts, bulldozers

Traveling Machine Operators and Mobile Equipment Operators both require safety certifications and work in similar environments. However, Traveling Machine Operators often operate larger, specialized machinery across multiple sites, while Mobile Equipment Operators typically handle mobile equipment like forklifts within specific facilities. Both roles are essential in construction, manufacturing, and logistics industries.

How much do traveling machine operators make?

Traveling machine operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the type of machinery operated. They often work in construction, manufacturing, or transportation environments and may require specialized certifications or licenses.
Infographic showing various Traveling Machine Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Machine Operator I

TESTEQUITY LLC

Corona, CA • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


TestEquity rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Summary/Purpose of the Position:

The Machine Operator is responsible for performing simple production-related packaging and labeling tasks in a dynamic, fast-paced, manufacturing environment.

This role operates a wide range of simple equipment, which includes, but not limited to: Aline Tube Sealer, Axon Heat Tunnel, Hytrol Conveyor, Keyence Inkjet Printer, Besseler Sealer/Heat Tunnel/Conveyor, Arrow, Artos, Cevenini, Siat Rewinder/Slitter, Core Labeling Table, Band Sealer, Challenge/ Compac (Sheeter), Contech – sitter, core cutter, Dusenbery, Fipi, Javelin, Lamination Table, Nitrogen Glove, Paint Shaker, Peristaltic Pump, Rewind table, Semi-automatic Bag/Cartridge Labeler, and/or Walco.

Essential Duties, Functions and/or Responsibilities:

  • Work in a production/assembly-line manufacturing environment to meet customer requirements as documented on least-complex work specifications (i.e., Job Travelers, Work Instructions and/or Customer drawings).
  • Completes the checklist(s) and other applicable production/quality documents for each order produced with cGMP.
  • Read and understand simple work specifications emphasizing material callouts, packaging and labeling requirements, dimensions, and associated tolerances.
  • Responsible for maintaining a clean work environment.
  • Responsible for the safe handling of various materials, products, and inventory.
  • Responsible for proper labeling of materials to ensure lot traceability and shelf-life tracking.
  • Maintains proper paperwork on work orders handled and quantities produced.
  • Maintains training skills on safe machine operations including safety guards.
  • Follows all safety rules regarding machine operations, work dress/attire, and proper guarding.
  • Maintains excellent attendance record.
  • Directly responsible for product quality.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • 1+ year of manufacturing, and/or assembly line experience preferred.
  • Certified Forklift Operator preferred.
  • Basic understanding of machine parts (what it is, and what a good/bad one looks like).
  • Good reading, writing, and comprehension of the English language.
  • Able to perform basic math functions such as add, subtract, multiply and divide, including fractions and decimals.
  • Visual acuity (including corrective vision) to read instructions, operate machinery, and visually inspect parts produced.
  • Able to set-up each machine properly.
  • Working knowledge of general accident prevention practices.
  • Resourceful, dedicated, and inquisitive.
  • Attention to detail, quality, and safety conscious.
  • Able to comprehend material specifications.
  • Must be reliable, dependable, punctual, and conscientious about production performance.
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug screen, previous employment verification, federal and county criminal background check.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to safely and successfully perform essential job functions in accordance with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
  • Ability to maintain regular and timely attendance in accordance with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local regulations.
  • Ability to lift up to 35 lbs. when necessary

This position requires applicants to be authorized to work in the US without sponsorship; TestEquity does not sponsor applicants for work visas. 

TestEquity provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.


What TestEquity employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom