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Grapple Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Jackson Family Wines

Fuels Crew Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$18.84 - $21.81/hr

... up trees, operating skid steer with masticator, grapple bucket and chipper to remove small trees, bushes, and other vegetation to provide a fire resilient landscape enterprise wide. ESSENTIAL ...

Jackson Family Wines

Fuels Crew Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$18.84 - $21.81/hr

... up trees, operating skid steer with masticator, grapple bucket and chipper to remove small trees, bushes, and other vegetation to provide a fire resilient landscape enterprise wide. ESSENTIAL ...

Rancho Tree Service

Fleet Administrator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

This role is critical in ensuring our vehicles, equipment, and operators stay compliant, organized ... Experience with forestry equipment (chippers, grapple trucks, bucket trucks, etc.) is a strong plus ...

All JobsGrapple Operator JobsGrapple Operator Jobs in California

Grapple Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$23

$33

How much do grapple operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for grapple operator in California is $23.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical work conditions and daily responsibilities for a grapple operator?

Grapple Operators often work outdoors in environments like construction sites, logging areas, or recycling facilities, where they are exposed to various weather conditions and must remain vigilant about safety. Daily tasks usually include operating grapple-equipped machinery to move or sort large materials, performing routine equipment inspections, and coordinating with other operators and site supervisors to ensure safe material handling. Operators frequently collaborate with teammates such as truck drivers and ground crew to optimize workflow and minimize downtime. While the work can be physically demanding, it offers variety and the opportunity to develop valuable skills in heavy equipment operation and site logistics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a grapple operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Grapple Operator, you need solid knowledge of heavy equipment operation, spatial awareness, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with hydraulic grapple systems, equipment maintenance, and OSHA safety certifications is frequently required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork ensure smooth and safe job site operations. These capabilities help prevent accidents, maximize productivity, and maintain effective workflow within construction, logging, or recycling environments.

How much does a grapple operator make?

Grapple operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and certification. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge and safety training tend to earn higher wages.

What is a grapple operator?

A Grapple Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery equipped with a grapple attachment to lift, move, and transport materials such as logs, scrap metal, or debris. They work in industries like logging, construction, and waste management, ensuring safe and efficient material handling. Operators must have strong spatial awareness, mechanical skills, and knowledge of safety regulations. Proper maintenance of equipment is also a key part of the job.

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What job categories do people searching Grapple Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Grapple Operator jobs in California are:
Grapple Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grapple Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,684 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

GRAPPLE TRUCK OPERATOR/DRIVER

P31 Enterprises, Inc

Oroville, CA

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Apply Here: https://secure.onehcm.com/ta/P31ENT.jobs?ShowJob=637719377&TrackId=ZipRecruiter

We are looking for a committed Grapple Truck Operator/Driver to join our team working in Paynes Creek CA. You will play a crucial role in maintaining and ensuring optimal performance. Daily tasks include driving, operating, greasing machinery, and conducting routine safety inspections. Operator/driver of a Class A-required vehicle; capable of driving a heavy-duty vehicle with a trailer; capable of operating a Palfinger, Serco, and Robotec grapple or similar equipment. Drive a manual or automatic CDL class vehicle in a safe and professional manner.

This position offers opportunities for growth and development across various company functions. Candidates must have foundational knowledge in operating a grapple truck and heavy vehicles, a valid Class A driver’s license with a clean record, and the ability to pass a background check and drug screening.