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Knuckle Boom Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hiab

Field Service Technician (San Diego, CA)

Fontana, CA

$39.90 - $46.40/hr

Forklifts, Knuckle Boom Cranes, Loaders, Liftgates, Hooklifts, Skiploaders & Hoists in line with ... Operating and Technical Procedures and Workplace Instructions * This position requires 100% travel ...

Hiab

Field Service Technician (Vacaville, CA)

Fontana, CA

$39.90 - $46.40/hr

Forklifts, Knuckle Boom Cranes, Loaders, Liftgates, Hooklifts, Skiploaders & Hoists in line with ... Operating and Technical Procedures and Workplace Instructions * This position requires 100% travel ...

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Knuckle Boom Operator information

See California salary details

$15

$25

$38

How much do knuckle boom operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for knuckle boom operator in California is $25.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a knuckle boom operator?

A Knuckle Boom Operator is responsible for operating a knuckle boom crane, which has an articulated arm for lifting and moving heavy loads in construction, forestry, transportation, and other industries. Operators must ensure safe and precise handling of materials while following safety regulations and load limits. They may also perform routine maintenance on the equipment and coordinate with ground crews for efficient operations.

What does a knuckle boom operator do?

A typical day for a Knuckle Boom Operator involves inspecting the equipment, reviewing job instructions, and operating the knuckle boom to safely lift, move, and place materials as needed on site. You will often collaborate closely with ground crew, site supervisors, and other equipment operators to coordinate lifts and ensure seamless workflow. Communication is key, as you’ll rely on hand signals or radios to stay aligned with team members, especially in busy or noisy environments. Operators also perform basic maintenance and keep detailed records of their work. This teamwork ensures safety and efficiency, and the collaborative environment can provide valuable experience for career advancement into lead operator or supervisory positions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a knuckle boom operator?

To thrive as a Knuckle Boom Operator, you need proficiency in heavy equipment operation, spatial awareness, and a high school diploma or equivalent; many employers require a specialized crane operator certification, such as NCCCO or equivalent. Operators typically use hydraulic control systems and may need to read load charts and blueprints to perform their job safely. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are valuable soft skills in this position. These skills are essential for maintaining safety, efficiency, and teamwork on construction sites or during material handling operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Knuckle Boom Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Knuckle Boom Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Knuckle Boom Operator jobs in California?

For Knuckle Boom Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Knuckle Boom Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Knuckle Boom Operator jobs in California are:

Knuckle Boom Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Knuckle Boom Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,583 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

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

Re-posted 13 days ago

American Wood Fibers rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 8 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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