1

Dock Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dock Worker

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary Dock Workers must efficiently and safely load and unload freight while following ... Operating Schedule Days: Monday through Sunday (varies by business needs) Shifts: AM/PM

Dock Worker

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating Schedule * Days: Monday through Sunday (varies by business needs)Shifts: AM/PM " schedules are determined by operational requirements and subject to change. Category: DHE Dockworker

Dock Worker

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating Schedule * Days: Monday through Sunday (varies by business needs)Shifts: AM/PM " schedules are determined by operational requirements and subject to change. Category: DHE Dockworker

Dock Worker

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating Schedule * Days: Monday through Sunday (varies by business needs)Shifts: AM/PM " schedules are determined by operational requirements and subject to change. Category: DHE Dockworker

Showing results 41-60

Dock Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$17

$24

How much do dock operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for dock operator in California is $17.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dock operator?

Dock Operators are responsible for loading, unloading, and moving goods and materials at shipping docks, warehouses, or distribution centers. They operate equipment such as forklifts and pallet jacks, check shipment documentation, and ensure that cargo is handled safely and efficiently. Dock Operators also help maintain inventory records and may be involved in inspecting goods for damage or discrepancies during the transfer process. Their work is essential for the smooth operation of logistics and supply chains.

What are some common challenges faced by dock operators and how can they be addressed?

Dock Operators often face challenges such as managing tight schedules, ensuring safety while handling heavy equipment, and coordinating with various teams to load and unload shipments efficiently. Effective communication, adherence to safety protocols, and staying organized can help address these issues. Many employers provide ongoing training and support to help Dock Operators adapt to changing demands and improve workflow efficiency.

What is the difference between Dock Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectDock OperatorCrane Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety trainingHigh school diploma, OSHA safety training, crane certification
Work EnvironmentPorts, docks, shipping yardsConstruction sites, shipping yards, industrial facilities
Industry UsageShipping, logistics, freight handlingConstruction, shipping, manufacturing

While both Dock Operators and Crane Operators work in shipping and industrial environments, Dock Operators primarily handle loading and unloading cargo using forklifts and other equipment, whereas Crane Operators operate cranes for lifting heavy materials. The roles often overlap in port settings, but Crane Operators typically require specialized crane certifications. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right role based on skills and industry needs.

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

To thrive as a Dock Operator, you need proficiency in material handling, safety protocols, and basic equipment operation, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with forklifts, pallet jacks, warehouse management systems, and OSHA safety standards is often required. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and accurate loading and unloading operations, which are critical for supply chain effectiveness.

What does a dock operator do?

As a dock operator, your job duties include loading and unloading inventory from a marine vessel. You may transfer this inventory with a forklift or crane, and you may be asked to help unload a cargo container and move its contents to their next destination. Your responsibilities also include performing safety checks and routine maintenance, inspecting freight for signs of damage, noting any discrepancies, and assisting other employees. This is a teamwork-oriented position that requires excellent communication skills and an emphasis on safety.

What cities in California are hiring for Dock Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Dock Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Dock Operator jobs in CA?

For Dock Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Dock Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,981 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Graving Dock Shipwright with Security Clearance

Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc.

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$26.26 - $32.53/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc. is seeking a full time Graving Dock Shipwright in San Diego, CA. Summary: The position, requiring minimal supervision will provide skilled Shipwright support for Graving Dock operations. This role demands expertise in preparing drydocks, assisting with safe docking and undocking procedures, as well as operating and maintaining graving dock machinery and systems. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in ship drydocking operations along with strong mechanical and technical skills. Duties and Responsibilities: * Participate in reviews of docking plans and vessel schematics as related to keel blocks and bilge blocks.
* Utilize standard mechanic's tools, ship fitting equipment and tools, wood shaping equipment and tools, portable machine tools, fixtures, and various gauges in the maintenance and repair of SWRMC dry docks.
* Support the building, pre-docking arrangement/alignment, disassembly and removal of docking blocks as required for all docking operations within SWRMC dry docks.
* Operate, maintain, repair, remove, and install a variety of graving dock mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic equipment and system components, including but not limited to valves, piping, marine centrifugal pumps (both horizontal and vertical types), piston pumps, and associated capstans, winches, windlasses, and trolleys.
* Monitor mechanical systems on a routine basis for problems or abnormalities, when identified notify supervision, analyze causes, suggest possible solutions, performing corrective action as authorized.
* Perform machinery operational checks prior, and subsequent to dock operations as required.
* Perform machinery operational checks subsequent to equipment repairs, changeouts or extended downtime.
* Perform preventive maintenance equipment checks as required, reporting deficiencies to supervision.
* Provide thorough maintenance and repair reporting, documentation, and parts inventory.
* Strict compliance with all safety procedures and PPE requirements, to include Lockout-Tag-out procedures as required for work being performed. Required Qualifications: * High school diploma or equivalent
* Hold current, or be eligible to obtain and maintain a DOD Security Clearance
* Minimum of 5 years drydock shipwright experience.
* Knowledge of Lockout Tag-out procedures.
* Proficient in researching, reading, and following technical manuals, blueprints, drawings, parts manuals, schematics, assembly instructions, and troubleshooting guides. Contact equipment manufacturers to obtain additional information regarding equipment operation, troubleshooting, and repair, when required.
* Ability to make recommendations using sound judgment while complying with policies, procedures and appropriate applicable technical guidance.
* Familiar with ship construction, drydock procedures, and marine materials.
* Strong understanding of workplace safety in a drydock environment.
* Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate clearly, accurately and effectively across a wide range of govt, active-duty military and industry personnel.
* Effective oral and written communication skills.
* Be available to perform overtime duties as required for pre-docking, docking, duration of ship docking periods and undocking. Additional Requirements (Post-Hire): * Must obtain Tag-out/Lock-out qualification within 30 days
* Must obtain PQS 301 Craftsmen qualification within 90 days.
* Must obtain Forklift Operator license within 90 days.
* Must obtain Dock Rover qualification within 6 months
* Must obtain the following qualifications within 12 months: * Graving Dock Sluice Gate Operator
* Graving Dock Caisson Operator
* Graving Dock Pump Room Operator
* Control Room Operator
* Trolley/Winch Operator Pay Range: The pay range for this role is $26.26 To $32.53 Hourly. This is a reasonable estimate for this role. Individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience. ADA Notations: * Requires walking, reaching, sitting and concentration in the presence of occasional noise
* Ability to move in narrow and restricted passageways, up/down steep and narrow ladders or stairways.
* Requires the ability to lift, carry and move objects up to 50 lbs. in weight.
* Noise conditions range from very quiet to loud. Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.