ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Front Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Radius Recycling

Loader Operator

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Loader Operator The Loader Operator will contribute to the production team to ensure goals are met ... Operation of a Front Loader, Crusher, Fork Lift or Skid Steer: Move vehicles, cores, scrap, and ...

Schnitzer Steel Industries Inc

Loader Operator

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

The Loader Operator will contribute to the production team to ensure goals are met safely and ... Operation of a Front Loader, Crusher, Fork Lift or Skid Steer: Move vehicles, cores, scrap, and ...

National Ready Mixed

Yardman-Glendale

Glendale, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Front Loader operator experience recommended. * The employee utilizes a square or round point shovel to relocate rock, sand, debris, etc., located underneath conveyors, a pit, or equipment to ...

Aguinaga Green Inc

Heavy Machine Operator

Silverado, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Front Loader Motor-Grader Bulldozer Excavator Skid Steer Experienced operators are encouraged to apply! General Accountabilities Operate and maintain yard equipment safely and efficiently. Handle ...

Aguinaga Green Inc

Heavy Machine Operator

Silverado, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Front Loader Motor-Grader Bulldozer Excavator Skid Steer Experienced operators are encouraged to apply! General Accountabilities Operate and maintain yard equipment safely and efficiently. Handle ...

Atlas Disposal

FRONT LOAD DRIVER

Rancho Cordova, CA

$26 - $30/hr

Operates vehicle by Atlas Disposal Industries safety rules and operating procedures, OSHA ... Front Load Drivers will also be expected to work a Saturday shift every about 3 weeks. Front Load ...

Atlas Disposal

Front Load Driver

Sacramento, CA

$26 - $30/hr

As a Front Load Driver, you will be essential in delivering safe and efficient waste, recycling ... At least 1 year of recent experience operating a vehicle requiring a CDL or equivalent military ...

Bristol Management Services

Yard Worker

Blythe, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... front loaders, aerial lifts etc. • Operate front loader for loading or moving aggregates or ... operators around and under the plant. • Assist in refilling water tanks on trucks. • Instruct ...

New

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Production Worker

Frazier Park, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Ability to operate at least 2 pieces of mobile equipment (haul truck, farm tractor, water truck, rubber tire backhoe, front loader, etc.) * Remove logs from cooler * On the job training * Operating ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFront Loader Operator JobsFront Loader Operator Jobs in California

Front Loader Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do front loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for front loader operator in California is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Front Loader Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectFront Loader OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often required, OSHA certificationOSHA certification, specialized excavator training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, loading docks, mining operationsConstruction sites, trenching, demolition
Industry UsageConstruction, agriculture, miningConstruction, demolition, utility work
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for equipment operation skills and certificationsCompared for digging, trenching, and material handling

While both Front Loader Operators and Excavator Operators work in construction and mining environments, they operate different equipment suited for specific tasks. Front Loader Operators primarily handle loading and moving materials with wheel loaders, whereas Excavator Operators focus on digging and trenching with hydraulic excavators. Certifications and work environments overlap, but their roles are distinct based on the machinery used and the tasks performed.

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

Front Loader Operators often work in environments with heavy equipment, uneven terrain, and limited visibility, which can present significant safety challenges. To address these risks, operators are usually required to follow strict safety protocols, such as conducting pre-operation equipment inspections, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and adhering to site-specific traffic patterns. Regular safety training and clear communication with ground personnel are also crucial to prevent accidents and ensure a safe work environment. Employers typically provide ongoing training and emphasize a safety-first culture to support operators in minimizing workplace hazards.

How much does a front-end loader operator earn?

A front loader operator typically earns between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Annual salaries can range from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 or more, with higher wages often available for skilled operators with certifications and experience working in construction or mining environments.

How to become a front-end loader operator?

To become a front loader operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete on-the-job training or a certification program in heavy equipment operation. Many employers require a valid driver's license and may prefer candidates with experience operating loaders and other construction machinery. Certification from organizations like the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) can improve job prospects.

What are Front Loader Operators?

Front Loader Operators are skilled workers who operate heavy machinery known as front-end loaders. These machines are used to move materials such as soil, gravel, sand, and debris at construction sites, mines, quarries, and other similar locations. Operators are responsible for safely maneuvering the loader, performing routine equipment checks, and ensuring materials are loaded and transported efficiently. They must have good hand-eye coordination, attention to safety protocols, and often require specialized training or certification. Front Loader Operators play a critical role in supporting construction and earth-moving projects.

Is a loader operator a good job?

A loader operator is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery like front loaders to move materials in construction, mining, or agriculture. The job typically requires physical strength, attention to safety protocols, and may involve shift work or outdoor environments. It can offer steady employment and opportunities for advancement with proper certifications and experience.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Front loader operators in construction, mining, or heavy equipment industries can sometimes earn $700 or more per day, especially with experience, certifications, and working in high-demand environments or overtime. Such roles often require operating heavy machinery, safety training, and adherence to strict regulations.

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

To thrive as a Front Loader Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and experience or certification in operating heavy machinery. Familiarity with equipment like front-end loaders, safety protocols, and sometimes OSHA certification or a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are typically required. Attention to detail, communication, and teamwork are crucial soft skills that help ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently. These skills and qualifications are essential to maintain worksite safety, optimize productivity, and prevent costly accidents or equipment damage.
What are popular job titles related to Front Loader Operator jobs in California? For Front Loader Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Front Loader Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Front Loader Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Front Loader Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Front Loader Operator job openings:
Front Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Front Loader Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,648 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Loader Operator

Loader Operator

Radius Recycling

Rocklin, CA • On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Radius Recycling rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 75 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Loader Operator

The Loader Operator will contribute to the production team to ensure goals are met safely and efficiently while conforming to company policies. Process vehicles in a safe manner to produce core & scrap products, enable the customers to pull parts, and satisfy environmental requirements. This position focuses primarily on Front Loader operation and various material handling duties.

  • Operation of a Front Loader, Crusher, Fork Lift or Skid Steer: Move vehicles, cores, scrap, and other material safely through the yard. Ensure that loads are positioned and placed securely. Use various tool attachments to segregate and dismantle light passenger vehicles.
  • Maintenance of a Front Loader, Crusher, Fork Lift or Skid Steer: Perform the pre-operations check and other inspections/cleaning as prescribed in the Certification course.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience operating heavy equipment.
  • Experience in automotive repair or dismantling.
  • Experience with automotive parts and/or retail customers
  • Experience with tools and machinery.
  • Bilingual in English & Spanish.

Physical Activities Required to Perform Essential Functions

  • Standing, walking, bending, climbing and stretching are required outside in the weather for extended periods during the shift.
  • The ability to sit for 6-8 hours per day in 2-3 hour intervals.
  • Manual dexterity to handle tools and the ability to move 50 pounds are regularly required to perform routine functions.
  • Good hand-eye coordination and motor skills sufficient to safely operate fork lift equipment in an active work area.
  • Regular and peripheral vision sufficient to safely operate fork lift equipment in an active work area and perform job functions as described above.
  • Hearing must be sufficient to safely operate fork lift equipment in an active work area.

Job Conditions

  • Exposure on a regular basis to outdoor weather conditions.
  • Periodic exposure to minimal chemical hazards.

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

All U.S. applicants must be 18 years of age or older and all Canada applicants must be 16 years of age or older.

Radius Recycling participates in e-verify for all U.S. new hires.

An offer of U.S. employment by Radius Recycling or any of its subsidiaries is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen and background check.

All new hires must review and sign an Arbitration Agreement. This applies to all U.S. non-union employees.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Radius Recycling does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, marital status, disability status, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, age, prior industrial injury, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other protected status under local, state or federal law.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Radius Recycling employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply