Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Aerotek; California (MO); On-site; USD 29,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) Retirement Plan

Life Insurance

Disability

HSA

Transportation benefits

Employee Assistance

Job summary

Aerotek is seeking a Machine Operator on the 1st shift in Carlsbad, CA. You will operate EDM machines to produce precision components, set up equipment, and perform in-process inspections while following SOPs.

You will document machine setups and inspection results using computers and Excel, and collaborate with engineers and supervisors to ensure quality and process documentation.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of manufacturing experience as a machine operator/technician.
• Hands-on experience operating manufacturing equipment including EDM machines.
• Microscope inspection experience for precision components.
• Proficient with computers and Excel to document findings and set parameters.
• Ability to follow SOPs with high attention to detail.
• Comfort around cleanroom and SMT equipment environments.

Responsibilities

• Operate EDM machines to generate components per production specs.
• Perform equipment set-up and configure machines/tools/materials.
• Conduct in-process inspections to verify quality throughout production.
• Collaborate with engineers/supervisors to ensure quality standards.
• Help develop and refine process documentation and work instructions.
• Follow SOPs to maintain consistency and compliance.
• Use microscopes to inspect components and verify accuracy.
• Document setups, findings, and inspection results using computers/Excel.
• Communicate production status, issues, and improvements clearly to team.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area and follow cleanroom guidelines.
• Assist with basic rework or adjustments per procedures.
• Operate SMT-related equipment as required by production needs.

Skills

EDM operation

Microscope inspection

Excel proficiency

Documentation skills

SOP adherence

Team collaboration

Equipment setup

Cleanroom/SMT environments

Tools

EDM machines

Microscopes

Excel

Job description

Machine Operator – 1st Shift

Job Description

This role focuses on operating EDM machines to produce precision components in a manufacturing environment. You will set up and run equipment, perform in-process inspections, and collaborate closely with engineering and supervisory staff to ensure product quality and adherence to standardized procedures. The position also involves supporting the development of process documentation and maintaining accurate records using computer and Excel tools.

Responsibilities

• Operate EDM machines to generate high-quality components according to production specifications.
• Perform equipment set-up, including configuring machines, tools, and materials for assigned tasks.
• Conduct in-process inspections to verify product integrity and quality throughout the production run.
• Work directly with engineers and supervisors to ensure product quality standards are consistently met.
• Collaborate with engineers to help develop and refine process documentation and work instructions.
• Follow and adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures to maintain consistency and compliance.
• Use microscopes to inspect components and verify accuracy against defined criteria.
• Document machine set-ups, findings, and inspection results using computer systems and Excel.
• Communicate clearly with team members and leadership regarding production status, issues, and improvements.
• Support a clean and organized work area and follow any cleanroom or equipment handling guidelines as required.
• Assist with basic rework or adjustments on components when needed, following established procedures.
• Operate manufacturing and SMT-related equipment as required by production needs, ensuring safe and proper use.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 2–3 years of manufacturing experience, specifically as a machine operator or technician.
• Hands‑on experience operating manufacturing equipment and machines, including EDM machines.
• Prior microscope experience for detailed inspection of small or precision components.
• Proficiency with computers and Excel to document findings, record inspection data, and set up machine parameters.
• Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with engineers, supervisors, and team members.
• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures and process documentation with high attention to detail.
• Capability to perform equipment set‑up, operation, and in‑process inspection independently.
• Comfort working around cleanroom and SMT equipment environments when required.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience as an SMT operator or working with SMT machines is beneficial.
• Background in rework on electronic or precision components is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively in a startup‑like environment with evolving processes and documentation.
• Strong problem‑solving mindset and willingness to support continuous improvement in manufacturing processes.

Why Work Here?

You join a growing, startup‑style environment that offers the opportunity to develop your skills and advance as the operation expands. The culture emphasizes growth, learning, and collaboration, with limited overtime that supports work‑life balance. You benefit from a setting that values clear communication, quality‑focused work, and professional development.

Work Environment

This is a 1st shift role with typical hours from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The work takes place in a manufacturing setting that may include cleanroom areas and SMT equipment. You will regularly use EDM machines, microscopes, computers, and Excel for production and documentation tasks. The environment focuses on maintaining quality, cleanliness, and safety while providing a structured schedule with limited overtime.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Carlsbad, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $23.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms.

If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post‑tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long‑term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistan