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Compactor Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Western Engineering Contractors, Inc.

CA · On-site

... compact and grade earth, rock, and asphalt paving materials. Education Requirements : High school ... Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship Program Completed (Certificate in hand) CAC Criteria.

Brown & Root

Clamp Forklift Operator(no per diem)

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

The Clamp Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient handling of compacted bales of recycled paper and cardboard in an outdoor environment. Using forklifts equipped with clamp ...

Colas

Equipment Operator

Irwindale, CA · On-site

$39.58/hr

Equipment Operator Company: SULLY-MILLER Job Location: IRWINDALE, CALIFORNIA, USA Type of Contract ... Equipment includes: 834 Compactor/Motor Grader, Loader, Dozer, Blade, Excavator, Rubber Tire Dozer.

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All JobsCompactor Operator JobsCompactor Operator Jobs in California

Compactor Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$21

$28

How much do compactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for compactor operator in California is $21.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a compactor operator?

A Compactor Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery designed to compress and compact materials such as soil, waste, or asphalt. They work in construction, waste management, or road maintenance to ensure surfaces are stable and materials are properly condensed. Duties include inspecting equipment, following safety protocols, and maintaining efficiency during operation. This role requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and knowledge of machine operation and maintenance.

What does a compactor operator do?

A typical workday for a Compactor Operator involves inspecting and preparing the compactor, operating the machine to compress waste or materials, and performing routine maintenance checks to ensure optimal performance. You’ll work closely with site supervisors and other equipment operators to coordinate tasks and maintain smooth workflow at construction sites, landfills, or recycling facilities. The role often requires being outdoors in varying weather conditions and adhering to strict safety protocols. Effective communication and situational awareness are important, as you'll frequently interact with other team members and be responsible for keeping work areas safe and organized.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a compactor operator?

To thrive as a Compactor Operator, you need experience operating heavy machinery, good hand-eye coordination, and a strong understanding of safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with specific compactor equipment, maintenance procedures, and safety certifications such as OSHA training are common requirements. Attention to detail, communication skills, and reliability are valued soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient operation of equipment, minimize downtime, and support overall site productivity.

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

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

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

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

Compactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Compactor Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,404 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Rubber Tire Roller Equipment Operator

VSS International, Inc.

Salinas, CA • On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

"OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY"

We are in need of Equipment Operator – Rubber Tire Roller for our VSS International, Inc job in Monterey County. This opportunity is contingent upon being awarded the project.

The ideal candidate will be a safe, hardworking, team-oriented person who is ok with working outdoors on road construction crews.

General Duties

  • Operate rubber tire roller in asphalt paving operations to achieve proper compaction and mat finish.
  • Follow rolling patterns, speeds, and sequences as directed by foreman or crew lead.
  • Monitor asphalt temperatures and surface conditions to prevent over‑rolling or material displacement.
  • Communicate effectively with paver operator, screed operator, and other crew members.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report mechanical issues immediately.
  • Maintain roller cleanliness (tires, drums, water systems if equipped).
  • Assist with general asphalt crew duties when not operating equipmentFollow all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and jobsite procedures.
  • Maintain awareness of surrounding equipment, personnel, and traffic control

 Qualifications

  • Must have good communications skills both written and verbal to interact with internal and external drivers and customers.
  • Must possess the ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects utilizing organizational skills and communications skills.
  • Strong sense of responsibility regarding timely and accurate completion of work, and a strong commitment to company goals.
  • Must be capable of functioning under fast paced stressful working conditions within live traffic
  • Prior pavement preservation experience is required

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION STATEMENT:

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, and consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.

 

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