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Compactor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Freemanhealth

GRADUATE NURSE - Main OR

Inglewood, CA · On-site

If Obtaining A Compact License It Must Be Held In The Registered Nurse's State Of Residence. * Must Successfully Pass Patient Care Orientation (PCO) Within 30 Days Of Hire. * AHA BLS For Healthcare ...

Cambro

Facilities Technician II

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

First Shift (United States of America) Maintains trash compactor and blue trash bins on a daily basis, Scheduling pick-ups and deliveries as needed to support production needs. Cleans and clears ...

Cambro

Facilities Technician II

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

First Shift (United States of America) Maintains trash compactor and blue trash bins on a daily basis, Scheduling pick-ups and deliveries as needed to support production needs. Cleans and clears ...

United Surgical Partners

RN OR

Stockton, CA · On-site

$50 - $65/hr

Compact licenses must obtain state license within 90 days of hire. * CPR required, advanced life support certification required within six months of hire. * Demonstrates clinical competency ...

GMR NorCal

Be Seen First

Recycling Warehouse Associate / Cutter

Livermore, CA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

This position involves working closely with a small team to efficiently separate materials, operate compaction machines, and ensure quality handling of recyclable components. Physical stamina and the ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsCompactor JobsCompactor Jobs in California

Compactor information

See California salary details

$9

$26

$50

How much do compactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for compactor in California is $26.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $34.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Compactor vs Loader?

AspectCompactorLoader
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, waste management facilities, recycling plantsConstruction sites, warehouses, construction zones
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, waste management, recycling industriesConstruction, logistics, material handling industries

Compactors and loaders often share similar certifications and work environments, especially in construction and waste management sectors. While compactors focus on compressing materials, loaders are used for moving and lifting materials. Both roles are essential in construction and waste industries, but they serve different functions on the job site.

What do compactors do?

Compactors operate machinery that compresses waste, recyclables, or other materials to reduce volume and facilitate disposal or storage. They work in environments such as landfills, recycling centers, or construction sites, often requiring safety training and proper operation skills.

What are some common safety challenges faced by compactors, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Compactors often work in environments where heavy machinery and moving vehicles are present, making safety a top priority. Common challenges include maintaining awareness of surroundings, preventing equipment malfunctions, and managing exposure to dust or noise. To address these, employers typically provide comprehensive safety training, require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and enforce strict protocols for equipment maintenance and site communication. Regular safety briefings and clear signage also help ensure a safe work environment.

What is a compactor?

Compactors are machines or devices used to reduce the size of material through compaction, primarily by applying pressure to compress waste, soil, or other materials. Commonly used in construction, waste management, and recycling, compactors help minimize space needed for disposal or transport. They come in various types, such as trash compactors, plate compactors, and landfill compactors, each designed for specific tasks. By using compactors, organizations can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and promote cleaner environments.

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

To thrive as a Compactor, you need a good understanding of heavy machinery operation, basic mechanical skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with compactor equipment, safety regulations, and sometimes OSHA certification are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication help ensure safe and efficient work on construction sites. These skills and qualifications are important for maintaining safety standards, minimizing downtime, and achieving project goals efficiently.
What are popular job titles related to Compactor jobs in California? For Compactor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Compactor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Compactor jobs in California are:
Compactor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Compactor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $55,706 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Warehouse Processor II

Goodwill Industries of San Diego County

Otay Mesa, CA • On-site

$19.30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Are you looking for meaningful work and want to make a difference?  Do you want to gain valuable work experience? Joining the Goodwill team could be a great fit for you!  At Goodwill we live and breathe our Core Values of Creativity, Credibility, and Collaboration.  We are a mission-integrated organization that is funded by resalable goods. Last year alone, we were able to keep 10 million pounds of donated goods from hitting our landfills. Through the reselling of donated items, we can provide job readiness training and employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities and barriers to employment. 


HOURLY RATE: $19.30

POSITION SUMMARY: Understands the facility operation including, product flow, sorting, operating the register, auctions, dock area, and provides excellent customer service. Process various recycling materials per our guidelines.


Essential Functions Statement: 

  1. Accurately maintains dock related documentation on a daily basis.
  2. Assists management on the efficient movement of product from the trucks to the designated areas.
  3. Gauges when compactor is full and to “compact” properly to maximize efficiency when changing out the container.
  4. Understands and prioritizes daily activities of the department base on critical operational needs and gives input to management on schedules.
  5. Operates and conducts daily inspections on the compactor, conveyor belt, baler, and forklifts. Meets productivity standards when bailing.
  6. Supports management on monitoring daily assignments for Warehouse Processor I.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Education: High School Diploma or GED preferred.

Experience: 1 year or more related experience.

Computer Skills: Must be able to operate a computerized register.

Certificates and Licenses: Must be able to be forklift certified.

Other requirements: Must be able to communicate in English. Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred. Prior experience on heavy equipment, pallet jack, and compactor preferred.

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