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Front Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

National Ready Mixed

Yardman-Irvine

Irvine, CA

$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 ...

National Ready Mixed

Yardman-Glendale

Glendale, CA

$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 ...

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

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Aguinaga Green Inc

Be Seen First

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

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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

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 ...

LF Staffing Services, Inc.

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

The ideal candidate has extensive experience operating bulldozers, front loaders, and excavators with precision and efficiency. You will play a key role in site prep, grading, excavation, and ...

City of Claremont

Solid Waste Operator

Claremont, CA · On-site

$53K - $64K/yr

Sanitation experience and the ability to proficiently operate a side-loader, front loader, roll-off ... operating divisions: Maintenance, Solid Waste, and Motor Fleet. To deliver the high-quality ...

City of Claremont, CA

Solid Waste Operator

Claremont, CA · On-site

$53K - $64K/yr

Sanitation experience and the ability to proficiently operate a side-loader, front loader, roll-off ... operating divisions: Maintenance, Solid Waste, and Motor Fleet. To deliver the high-quality ...

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 ...

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Production Worker

Frazier Park, CA

$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 ...

Orange Avenue

Commercial Roll Off Driver

Fresno, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Provides weekly, bi-weekly and/or monthly collection services while safely operating company equipment. * May operate roll-off, front loader, side loader, or tractor trailer. * Communicates ...

Arcosa Lightweight

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 ...

Arcosa Lightweight

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 ...

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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 Jun 23, 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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A front loader operator can potentially earn $10,000 a month with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries such as construction or mining. These roles often require certifications, physical stamina, and knowledge of heavy machinery but do not necessarily require a college degree.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Front loader operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are more common in specialized roles like construction project managers, oil and gas industry supervisors, or high-level contractors. These positions often require extensive experience, certifications, and working in demanding environments. Most front loader operators earn a competitive hourly wage but rarely reach $2000 daily without additional overtime or bonuses.

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.

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.

How much do loader operators make a year?

Loader operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages, especially in construction, mining, or logistics environments.

How hard is it to operate a front-end loader?

Operating a front-end loader requires training to understand controls, safety procedures, and machine maintenance. While it involves physical coordination and attention to detail, most operators find it manageable with proper instruction and practice. Certification may be required depending on the job site.
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
Loader Operator

Loader Operator

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc.

Rocklin, CA • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

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.

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