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Entry Level Material Handler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Builders FirstSource

Material Handler I Truss Shop

Shafter, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Physically handles materials used to construct components and finished products to ensure movement ... This is an entry level position where incumbent will receive on-the-job training. Competencies

IKON POWDER COATING INC

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Powder Paint Coating Sprayer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Entry level position open for powder spray applicator / material handler AM shift Previous powder coating experience a plus Bilingual -- English / Spanish requested but not required Forklift ...

IKON POWDER COATING INC

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Powder Paint Coating Sprayer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Entry level position open for powder spray applicator / material handler AM shift Previous powder coating experience a plus Bilingual -- English / Spanish requested but not required Forklift ...

Sterling Foods

Machine Operator

Azusa, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

This is an entry level position.DUTIES * Set up machine * Make necessary adjustment to avoid down ... palletizer, material handler, backup machine operator, etc.) and monitor all the data being ...

Sterling Foods

Machine Operator

Azusa, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

This is an entry level position. DUTIES • Set up machine • Make necessary adjustment to avoid ... Ask for any material needed in advance to the material handler and/or lead. Keep communicating the ...

Sterling Foods

Machine Operator

Azusa, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

This is an entry level position. DUTIES • Set up machine • Make necessary adjustment to avoid ... Ask for any material needed in advance to the material handler and/or lead. Keep communicating the ...

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All JobsMaterial Handler JobsEntry Level Material Handler JobsEntry Level Material Handler Jobs in California

Entry Level Material Handler information

See California salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do entry level material handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level material handler in California is $18.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level material handler do?

An Entry Level Material Handler is responsible for moving, storing, and managing materials within a warehouse, factory, or distribution center. Their duties often include loading and unloading shipments, organizing inventory, and ensuring that materials are delivered to the correct locations for production or shipping. They may also operate equipment such as forklifts or pallet jacks and keep records of materials handled. This role is essential for maintaining an efficient workflow and supporting overall operations in a variety of industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level material handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Material Handler, you need basic math skills, physical stamina, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), barcode scanners, forklifts, and pallet jacks is typically required, with some positions needing OSHA forklift certification. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient material movement and inventory accuracy, which are critical for smooth warehouse operations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level material handlers, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level material handlers often face challenges such as adapting to fast-paced warehouse environments, managing heavy or awkward loads safely, and learning to operate equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks. To overcome these challenges, new hires should take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions when unsure about procedures, and consistently follow safety guidelines. Building good communication with team members and supervisors can also help address issues quickly and ensure tasks are completed efficiently.

How do you become an entry level material handler?

To become an entry-level material handler, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic physical fitness to lift and move materials. Prior experience is not required, but familiarity with warehouse equipment like forklifts and good organizational skills can be beneficial; some employers may provide on-the-job training.

What are the most commonly searched types of Material Handler jobs in California?

The most popular types of Material Handler jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Material Handler jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Material Handler job openings:

Entry Level Material Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Material Handler job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,924 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Material Handler Yard/Warehouse

Builders FirstSource

Ventura, CA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Builders FirstSource rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 313 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

296th of 545 rated manufacturers

Job description

Ignite your career at Builders FirstSource, America's largest supplier of building materials, value-added components and building services to the professional market. The #1 name in our industry, we help make the dream of home ownership more achievable every day. At BFS, you'll be equipped with all the tools, training, and resources you need, and you'll be empowered to try new things, gain new experiences, and build a career with unlimited horizons.
PURPOSE
Under direct supervision handles and maintains the flow of materials and products on the premises according to established guidelines.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Physically handles materials used to construct components and finished products to ensure movement of such items is optimized; lifts, carries, stacks items as needed.
  • Operates motorized and non-motorized material handling equipment, some of which may require specialized training.
  • Responds attentively to training from foreman or more senior handlers in order to increase own knowledge of work processes.
  • Understands and observes all safety procedures and practices in order to prevent injury to self or co-workers; attends periodic safety meetings as required; may recommend changes to improve safety procedures.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This job has no supervisory responsibilities.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED). This is an entry level position where incumbent will receive on-the-job training.
COMPETENCIES
  • Knowledge of and ability to use motorized and non-motorized material handling equipment
  • Manual dexterity
  • Knowledge of safety procedures while performing materials handling tasks
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Work is performed within a production environment, subject to temperature variations, hazardous chemicals, mechanical parts, increased noise levels and dust.
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds frequently and on occasion up to 80 pounds.
  • May be required to perform specific tasks that involve climbing, lifting, pushing or kneeling.

At BFS, we want you and your career to be greater than what you ever could have expected. Our supportive, people -first culture will build you up and empower you to do more, be more, and become better every day. Join us and see what's possible when you can rise to new challenges, learn new skills, and add to your career tool belt every day.
At Builders FirstSource, we offer competitive, affordable benefits designed to make life better for you and the people you love. Our goal is simple - provide great plans that help you and your family to live happier, healthier and more secure lives. To view all our benefit offerings click here www.bldrbenefits.com.
Builders FirstSource is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status or status as an individual with a disability.
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Builders FirstSource, please call (214) 765-3990 or email: ADA.Accommodation@bldr.com. Please do not send resumes to this email address - it is intended only to be used to request an accommodation in submitting an application for a job opening.
Please note that due to the volume of applications received, we are unable to respond to individual inquiries about the status of your application.

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About Builders FirstSource

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Builders FirstSource is the nation’s largest supplier of structural building products, value-added components and services to the professional market for new residential construction and repair and remodeling. Our focus is on providing unparalleled service to both large and small customers. Through investments in innovation and an unmatched portfolio of value-added products and manufacturing capabilities, we’re revolutionizing the homebuilding industry – outperforming today and transforming tomorrow.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US

Year founded

1998

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