2

Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Offset/Flexo Press Helper

Napa, CA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Offset/Flexo Press Helper ID: 9370 Category: Entry Level Location: Napa State: CA Description JOB ... Work with operator to achieve productivity and quality goals. * Load and unload substrates and ...

Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$11

$20

$28

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

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level wheel loader operator in Santa Rosa, CA is $20.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $23.41 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 Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator job openings:

Class-A Regional Dry Van Driver - Home Weekly

NIS EXPRESS

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$1.3K - $1.5K/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Drivers seeking dependable mileage, stable scheduling, and compensation that mirrors their hard work will find an ideal fit here. Operating out of our regional terminal, this run delivers a highly predictable work environment. Maximize your road time without manual labor, reset every week, and count on a steady route structure.

Work Scope and Logistics

  • Regional Network: Transporting dry van commodities throughout our designated commercial territory
  • Distance Traveled: Plan on 2,000 to 2,400 miles per week, dependent on individual efficiency and freight availability
  • Operations Type: Balanced rotation of drop-and-hook freight alongside live customer loads
  • Cargo Handling: Strictly zero driver handling required for all shipments
  • Modern Trucks: Drivers receive late-model assigned vehicles, including Freightliner Cascadia and Kenworth models
  • Dedicated Dispatch: Strategic load planning to prevent unnecessary delays and maximize driving windows

Salary and Bonus Incentives

  • Gross Weekly Income: Ranging from $1,300 up to $1,500 per week
  • Stable Mileage: Reliable freight network ensures all miles are fully compensated
  • Payout Method: Direct deposit processed every single week
  • Extra Rewards: Cash incentives awarded for maintaining high safety standards and strong performance
  • Preparation: Onboarding program is fully paid by the company

Time Away From Work

  • Restart Period: Spend every single week at home to complete a standard 34-hour reset
  • Additional Earnings: Freedom to extend road stays to capture higher mileage paychecks
  • System Dependability: Engineered shipping lanes guarantee you get home exactly when promised

New Driver Onboarding Program

  • Low Experience Welcome: Open to recent commercial driving graduates with a valid license
  • Professional Guidance: Receive paid road training for 3 to 5 weeks working alongside an instructor
  • Training Focus: Concentration on commercial trip planning, defensive driving, and real-world safety
  • Career Growth: Graduate to independent solo driving upon successfully hitting company benchmarks

Benefit Structure

  • Health Services: Complete dental, vision, and medical packages available
  • Future Planning: 401(k) savings accounts paired with a corporate matching percentage
  • Rest Days: Accrued paid vacation time
  • Protection Plans: Life and accidental death insurance fully funded by the employer
  • Truck Partners: Accessible passenger and pet policies for eligible fleet drivers

Daily Obligations

  • Securely manage a Class A commercial vehicle across all highway conditions
  • Document accurate logs and execute necessary equipment checks before and after trips
  • Respect delivery deadlines to ensure on-time customer arrival
  • Keep open lines of communication with your driver manager regarding route status

Candidate Prerequisites

  • Licensing: Possession of a current Class A CDL
  • Background: Minimum of 6 months operating a tractor-trailer, or an entry-level applicant holding a CDL-A
  • Mandatory Screening: Success in passing a standard DOT medical examination and drug screening
  • Professionalism: A reliable, safety-conscious approach to managing heavy machinery

This position is tailored for professionals looking for financial stability over daily guesswork.

Get your application in immediately to secure an orientation spot before our upcoming group closes.


Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).