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Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Modesto, CA

Teichert

Hot Plant/Crusher Operator

Winton, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $37.98/hr

Rock plant operator - Includes operating various controls within the rock plant to control the ... Wheel Loader, Excavator, Utility Truck, Tractor, Skid Steer, Dozer, Telescopic Handler Forklift ...

CJ Logistics

Forklift Operator - 3rd Shift

Stockton, CA · On-site

$20.28/hr

Are you ready to take the wheel of your future and join a team that values safety, precision, and ... Conduct outbound load audit s, correct labels and count discrepancies * Keep the warehouse moving ...

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsEntry Level Wheel Loader Operator JobsEntry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Modesto, CA

Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$11

$20

$27

How much do entry level wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level wheel loader operator in Modesto, CA is $20.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a wheel loader?

To become a wheel loader operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or a vocational program in heavy equipment operation. Many employers require certification from a recognized training program and a valid driver's license; experience with equipment controls and safety procedures is also important.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Entry level wheel loader operators typically do not earn $700 a day; such high daily pay is usually associated with experienced heavy equipment operators, specialized construction roles, or union positions that require certifications and extensive experience. These roles often involve working long hours, overtime, or in high-demand environments to reach that earning level.

How much do beginner operators make?

Entry-level wheel loader operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on location, company, and experience. Starting salaries may increase with certifications, such as OSHA or equipment-specific training, and familiarity with machinery and safety protocols.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry level wheel loader operator positions often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may need to complete on-the-job training or certification programs. Having knowledge of equipment operation, safety procedures, and physical fitness can improve job prospects for beginners.

What is the difference between Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectEntry Level Wheel Loader OperatorEquipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, material handlingConstruction, industrial, mining, and transportation settings
Job DutiesOperate wheel loaders for loading, moving materialsOperate various heavy machinery including loaders, excavators

Both roles require safety certifications and involve working in construction or industrial environments. The main difference is that an Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator specializes in operating wheel loaders specifically, while an Equipment Operator may handle a variety of heavy machinery. The choice depends on the specific equipment and tasks involved in the job.

What are the most commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Modesto, CA? The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Modesto, CA? For Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Modesto, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Modesto, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator job openings:
Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Log Yard (Heavy Equipment) Operator- 1st Shift

Log Yard (Heavy Equipment) Operator- 1st Shift

American Wood Fibers, Inc

Jamestown, CA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

American Wood Fibers rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

American Wood Fibers (AWF) is a manufacturer of both consumer and industrial products that are sold to multiple manufacturers as well as pet, agricultural, and home-heating markets. AWF is comprised of 400+ employees and holds operations at 11 locations, generating over $100M in annual sales revenue. We are currently seeking a candidate for the 1st Shift Log Yard (Heavy Equipment) Operator role in our Jamestown, CA facility.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. PRODUCTION
  • Work closely with other shavers to keep production of wood shavings on track to meet shift goals
  • Must keep shavers operational and at their best efficiency at all times – includes filling up the shaver boxes, monitoring equipment, and effectively moving logs around the log yard
  • Cut logs to specifications and maintain an orderly yard for inventory counts
  • Evaluate logs before unloading from freight shipments
  • Monitor the quality of the shavings being produced.
  • Uphold and obey all warnings and safety precautions used in the plant
  1. LOADER/KNUCKLE BOOM/HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
  • Safely operate industrial equipment including: articulated wheel loader, knuckle boom, and skid steer
  • Clean and maintain the machine with regular greasing and cleaning of all necessary systems
  • Coordinate with truck drivers in the yard to maintain a path in and out of the plant, while keeping everyone safe and out of harm’s way
  • Responsible for the movement of wood – logs throughout the log yard
  • Must be able to safely operate around people and other machinery
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions
  1. SAFETY
  • Participates in monthly safety meetings.
  • Uses required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Participates in necessary training sessions and achieves satisfactory results on required tests.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or GED

PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS

  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs.
  • Physical capability to bend, squat, or stoop
  • Previous mobile equipment, forklift, required

EXPERIENCE

Industrial Machine Operating: 1 Year (Preferred)

BENEFITS

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

COMPENSATION

$20.00 - $24.00 per hour

LOCATION

  • On-site, one location – Jamestown, CA

Monday-Friday

What American Wood Fibers employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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