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Compactor Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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.

Hot Cell Operator

Sunol, CA · On-site

$45.67 - $60.10/hr

Company Overview Zeno Power is the leading developer of nuclear batteries compact power systems ... Hot Cell Operator Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Hot Cell Operator to support the mission ...

Hot Cell Operator

Sunol, CA

$45.67 - $60.10/hr

Company Overview Zeno Power is the leading developer of nuclear batteries - compact power systems ... Hot Cell Operator Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Hot Cell Operator to support the mission ...

Hot Cell Operator

Sunol, CA · On-site

$45.67 - $60.10/hr

Company Overview Zeno Power is the leading developer of nuclear batteries - compact power systems ... Hot Cell Operator Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Hot Cell Operator to support the mission ...

Hot Cell Operator

Sunol, CA · On-site

$45.67 - $60.10/hr

Company Overview Zeno Power is the leading developer of nuclear batteries - compact power systems ... Hot Cell Operator Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Hot Cell Operator to support the mission ...

TAMPER OPERATOR

Stockton, CA · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Operates Tamping Machine (Jackson 6700) that uses a Jupiter System computer system, to compact ... A minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment (jackson 6700) - in a railroad ...

Operates Tamping Machine (Jackson 6700) that uses a Jupiter System computer system, to compact ... A minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment (jackson 6700) - in a railroad ...

Operates Tamping Machine (Jackson 6700) that uses a Jupiter System computer system, to compact ... A minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment (jackson 6700) - in a railroad ...

Operates Tamping Machine (Jackson 6700) that uses a Jupiter System computer system, to compact ... A minimum of 3 years experience operating heavy equipment (jackson 6700) - in a railroad ...

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR JOB SUMMARY: Operate several types of power construction equipment, such ... Compact and prepare sub grade and final grade tasks. Key Responsibilities/Accountabilities:

Showing results 21-40

Compactor Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$21

$28

How much do compactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Compactor Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Compactor Operator jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Compactor Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,404 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Clamp Forklift Operator(no per diem)

Brown & Root

Ontario, CA

$16 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Brown & Root rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

368th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

Clamp Forklift Operator - Recycled Paper Bale Handling (Outdoor Environment)

Position Summary:
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 attachments, this role supports the movement, loading, and unloading of bales for shipping, processing, and storage while maintaining safety and product integrity.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate clamp forklifts to move, stack, load, and unload bales of recycled paper and cardboard
  • Securely transport bales across the yard and staging areas while preventing damage to equipment or product
  • Adjust clamp pressure and forklift settings based on bale size, weight, and stability
  • Work outdoors in various weather conditions, maintaining productivity and safety standards
  • Follow hand signals and verbal directions to place bales accurately in designated areas
  • Conduct routine forklift inspections and report mechanical or safety issues promptly
  • Adhere to all safety procedures, including the proper use of PPE and safe equipment operation

Work Schedule:

  • Rotating 12-hour shifts (including day and night shifts)
  • Overtime paid after 8 hours per shift
  • Must be available for weekends, holidays, and rotating schedules as required

Qualifications:

  • Valid Driver's License required
  • Forklift certification with clamp attachment experience strongly preferred
  • Familiarity with handling compressed bales and outdoor stacking procedures
  • Understanding of equipment load capacities and operating on uneven terrain

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.)
  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasks: standing, walking, climbing, lifting, pushing, pulling, reaching, stooping, crouching, and repetitive motions
  • Capable of handling heavy, compressed bales using clamp-equipped forklifts safely and effectively.

Clamp Forklift Operator - Recycled Paper Bale Handling (Outdoor Environment)

Position Summary:
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 attachments, this role supports the movement, loading, and unloading of bales for shipping, processing, and storage while maintaining safety and product integrity.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate clamp forklifts to move, stack, load, and unload bales of recycled paper and cardboard
  • Securely transport bales across the yard and staging areas while preventing damage to equipment or product
  • Adjust clamp pressure and forklift settings based on bale size, weight, and stability
  • Work outdoors in various weather conditions, maintaining productivity and safety standards
  • Follow hand signals and verbal directions to place bales accurately in designated areas
  • Conduct routine forklift inspections and report mechanical or safety issues promptly
  • Adhere to all safety procedures, including the proper use of PPE and safe equipment operation

Work Schedule:

  • Rotating 12-hour shifts (including day and night shifts)
  • Overtime paid after 8 hours per shift
  • Must be available for weekends, holidays, and rotating schedules as required

Qualifications:

  • Valid Driver's License required
  • Forklift certification with clamp attachment experience strongly preferred
  • Familiarity with handling compressed bales and outdoor stacking procedures
  • Understanding of equipment load capacities and operating on uneven terrain

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.)
  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasks: standing, walking, climbing, lifting, pushing, pulling, reaching, stooping, crouching, and repetitive motions
  • Capable of handling heavy, compressed bales using clamp-equipped forklifts safely and effectively

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Strength:
a. Standing 5%
Walking 5%
Sitting 90%

b. Lifting 10 lb.
Carrying 10 lb.
Pushing 50 ft-lb.
Pulling 50 ft-lb.

2. Climbing O
Balancing O

3. Stooping O
Kneeling O
Crouching O
Crawling O
Reaching C
Handling C
Fingering C

EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS
NP Not Present
O Occasionally (0-33%)
F Frequently (34-66%)
C Constantly (67-100%)

Brown & Root Industrial Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. BENEFITS: Brown and Root offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which include a 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, and flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.


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About Brown & Root

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Brown & Root is a prominent player in the industrial service industry, with their headquarters nestled in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, US. With a substantial history dating back to 1919, the company has built a reputation for delivering comprehensive solutions to their customers, primarily in engineering, construction, maintenance, operations, and other related industrial services. Brown & Root’s core mission is echoed in their commitment to safety, customer satisfaction, integrity, and delivering high-quality services. They also take pride in their culture of continuous improvement which has yielded significant achievements such as earning a spot in the Engineering News-Record's top 400 contractors list.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Baton Rouge, LA, US

Year founded

1919