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Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of St. Peters

$17.50 - $23/hr

Peters is looking for a motivated and safety-conscious Transfer Station Loader Operator to join our Solid Waste Division. This position supports the daily operations of our new, state-of-the-art ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Fremont, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions. IAA Holdings, LLC (IAA) IAA ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Fremont, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions. IAA Holdings, LLC (IAA) IAA ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Wilmington, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions. IAA Holdings, LLC (IAA) IAA ...

Graniterock

Plant Operator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

Operate skid steer loader, forklift, and excavator as required. While operating a 988 sized front-end loader, supply the Batch Plant and Drum Plant with aggregates. Unload railcar shipments safely ...

Advanced Drainage Systems

Yard Loader

San Jose, CA

$20.65 - $23.60/hr

A Yard Loader is responsible for safely and accurately loading and unloading all deliveries made and received by ADS. A Yard Loader must demonstrate safe and proper vehicle operation at all times.

Advanced Drainage Systems

Yard Loader

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20.65 - $23.60/hr

A Yard Loader must demonstrate safe and proper vehicle operation at all times. This position also interacts with company and non-company drivers as well as will-call customers and should display ...

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$34 - $39/hr

The Operator is expected to possess advanced troubleshooting skills, perform preventative and ... Oversee the loading of asphalt into haul trucks, ensuring correct weights, legal load limits, and ...

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$34 - $39/hr

The Operator is expected to possess advanced troubleshooting skills, perform preventative and ... Oversee the loading of asphalt into haul trucks, ensuring correct weights, legal load limits, and ...

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$34 - $39/hr

The Operator is expected to possess advanced troubleshooting skills, perform preventative and ... Oversee the loading of asphalt into haul trucks, ensuring correct weights, legal load limits, and ...

MHX, LLC

Fuel Loader - Transload Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Fuel Loader - Transload Operator Location: Fontana, CA Job Type: Full-time, non-exempt, hourly Shift(s): 12 hour shifts Schedule: Night shift: Saturday to Tuesday 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. Pay: $23-$25/hour ...

R+L Carriers

Casual Loader

Fontana, CA · On-site

$24.48/hr

Casual Forklift Operator PT Hourly rate is $24.48 hr. Part-Time, Saturday 2 am - 10 am and Sunday ... PTO available after the first 90 calendar days of employment and enjoy an excellent Loader ...

Diamond Pet Foods

Warehouse Loader - NIGHTS

Ripon, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Work is primarily performed indoors near operating equipment, loud noises, and loose particles ... Ensure to load only damage-free product, providing the best of quality to our customers, while ...

Diamond Pet Foods

Warehouse Loader - NIGHTS

Ripon, CA

$22.50 - $24.50/hr

Work is primarily performed indoors near operating equipment, loud noises, and loose particles ... Ensure to load only damage-free product, providing the best of quality to our customers, while ...

Devil Mountain Wholesale Nursery LLC

Loader I

Fillmore, CA · On-site

$17.40 - $18/hr

Loader I Location: Fillmore Schedule: Full-Time | Outdoor Yard Role Compensation: $17.40 - $18.00 per hour, depending on experience The Role Devil Mountain Wholesale Nursery is seeking dependable ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsLoader Operator JobsLoader Operator Jobs in California

Loader Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a loader operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Loader Operator, you need expertise in operating heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a valid equipment operator’s license or certification. Familiarity with equipment such as front-end loaders, forklifts, and basic maintenance tools is important, as is adherence to safety protocols. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for preventing accidents and ensuring smooth operations. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, productivity, and minimizing downtime on construction or industrial sites.

What are some common challenges faced by loader operators on construction sites, and how can they be managed effectively?

Loader Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, managing heavy loads, and maintaining safety while operating machinery around other workers and equipment. Effective communication with site supervisors and other team members is essential to coordinate movements and avoid accidents. Regular equipment inspections and adherence to safety protocols help prevent breakdowns and injuries, ensuring smooth daily operations. Building experience and staying up to date with industry best practices can also make handling these challenges more manageable.

What is the difference between Loader Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectLoader OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, material handlingConstruction sites, mining, excavation projects
Job DutiesLoading materials, moving debris, site cleanupDigging trenches, lifting heavy materials, excavation

Both Loader Operators and Excavator Operators require similar certifications and work in construction or mining environments. The main difference lies in their specific tasks: Loader Operators focus on loading and moving materials, while Excavator Operators handle digging and excavation work.

What is the role of a loader operator?

A loader operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery such as front-end loaders, skid steers, or backhoes to load materials like soil, gravel, or debris into trucks or containers. They inspect equipment, follow safety protocols, and may need certification or training to operate specific machinery. The role often involves working outdoors in construction, mining, or warehousing environments.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Loader Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Loader Operator job openings:

Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Loader Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,648 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

TRANSFER STATION LOADER OPERATOR

City of St. Peters

$17.50 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate loaders and other heavy equipment to process and transfer municipal solid waste and recyclable materials.

  • Assist with routine servicing and minor repairs of equipment, and report maintenance needs.

  • Support safety protocols and promote a clean work environment while providing courteous customer service.

Job description

Job Summary The City of St. Peters is looking for a motivated and safety-conscious Transfer Station Loader Operator to join our Solid Waste Division. This position supports the daily operations of our new, state-of-the-art Material Recovery Facility (MRF) and Transfer Station by ensuring the efficient handling, sorting, and disposal of solid waste and recyclable materials. This is a hands-on role ideal for individuals with experience in heavy equipment operation, solid waste management, or recycling services.

Normal Hours: 40 hours per week with a rotating schedule that includes Saturdays and some holidays. Hours will rotate to cover operational needs between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform skilled labor in the processing and transfer of municipal solid waste and recyclable materials.
  • Operate loaders and other heavy equipment with precision in a fast-paced environment.
  • Assist with routine servicing and minor repairs of equipment; promptly report maintenance needs.
  • Promote a clean and safe work environment by following established City safety standards.
  • Provide courteous and professional customer service by responding to inquiries and concerns.
  • Support the onboarding and on-the-job training of new team members in safety, equipment uses, and best practices.

Minimum Requirements

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully authorized alien worker.
  • High School graduate or GED certificate.
  • One (1) year of applicable experience.
  • Class "B" CDL with air brakes valid in the state of Missouri or obtain within 120 days of employment. Commercial drivers' instruction permit (CDIP) must be obtained within 60 days of employment.
  • Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 75 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 lbs.

Why Join Us

  • Work in a modern facility equipped with advanced technology to support efficient recycling and environmental sustainability.
  • Be part of a mission-driven team committed to public service and environmental stewardship.
  • Enjoy stable, full-time municipal employment with excellent benefits and growth opportunities.
  • Make a real impact by supporting waste diversion and recycling initiatives that benefit the St. Peters community.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive Salary: Market-based pay structure with step placement determined by qualifications and experience
  • Retirement & Financial security: Missouri LAGERS L-6 defined benefit pension plan (with Rule of 80), 457 deferred compensation plan, Roth retirement savings option, and retiree health coverage
  • Leave & Holiday benefits: Vacation (up to 6 weeks), sick leave, 12 paid holidays and 1 personal day
  • Health & Wellness: Medical, dental and vision coverage options; City-paid Life and AD&D insurance ($50,000); long-term disability; voluntary supplemental insurance options, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and Preventative Care Time Off
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): medical and dependent care options
  • Education Support: Tuition reimbursement (up to 6-8 classes per year)

Apply Today Bring your skills, reliability, and commitment to safety to a team that values your work. Apply now to join the City of St. Peters as a Transfer Station Loader Operator.


All candidates for this position will be subject to a comprehensive background check and drug screening. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of these checks. The City is committed to maintaining a safe and drug-free work environment and requires all employees to adhere to these standards.

Apply