ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Fremont, CA · On-site

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. Responsibilities

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Fremont, CA

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

$24/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. Responsibilities

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

Dixon, CA

$18.50 - $24.25/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

Dixon, CA · On-site

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. Responsibilities

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Dixon, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/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. Responsibilities

Vulcan Materials

Loader Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$48.84/hr

Previous experience operating heavy construction equipment is preferred. Knowledge of Best Practices. Knowledge of general principles and practices of operating and servicing heavy construction ...

CalPortland

Ready Mix Loader Operator

Pinole, CA · On-site

$42.50 - $53/hr

Job Summary The Ready-Mix Loader Operator is responsible for operating equipment commonly found necessary for the proper maintenance of a ready-mix plant. Equipment operated will include loader ...

Ideal Tridon

Coil Loader Floop Operator

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$25.49/hr

We are seeking a Coil Loader and Loop Operator to join our team at Ideal Tridon - Wesanco in Garden Grove, California. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday (1st) Sunday - Thursday (3rd Shift) Shift: 1st ...

Ideal Tridon

Coil Loader Floop Operator

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$25.49/hr

We are seeking a Coil Loader and Loop Operator to join our team at Ideal Tridon - Wesanco in Garden Grove, California. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday (1st) Sunday - Thursday (3rd Shift) Shift: 1st ...

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 ...

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Utility Operator

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$36.44 - $44.67/hr

Fills in for the Plant Operator or Loader Operator when regular staff are out * Follows all company policies and procedures in accordance with guidelines established by Arcosa management * Ensure ...

National Ready Mixed

Yardman-Glendale

Glendale, CA

$21/hr

Yardman-Loader Operator ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * The employee assists with the cleaning and maintenance of the concrete mix plant and equipment. * The employee operates a loader to relocate materials or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 4, 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 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 certifications or training to operate specific machinery. Their work is typically performed in construction, mining, or industrial settings.

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 a Loader Operator?

A Loader Operator is a skilled equipment operator who uses heavy machinery, such as front-end loaders or wheel loaders, to move materials like soil, gravel, sand, or debris on construction sites, mines, or other work environments. Their responsibilities include loading and unloading materials, maintaining the equipment, and following safety protocols to ensure efficient and safe operations. Loader Operators often work closely with other construction or site workers to keep projects running smoothly.

How much does a load operator make?

A loader operator's average salary varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $15 to $25 per hour, with annual earnings between $30,000 and $50,000. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in operating heavy machinery can earn higher wages and may receive additional benefits based on the employer and industry sector.

Is a loader operator a good job?

A loader operator is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery such as loaders and excavators, often requiring certification and safety training. The job typically offers steady employment, physical activity, and the potential for overtime, making it a viable career option in construction, mining, and logistics industries.

What jobs pay 700 a day?

Loader operators in construction, mining, or heavy equipment industries can sometimes earn around $700 per day, especially with overtime, specialized skills, or in high-demand projects. High-paying roles often require certifications, experience, and operating heavy machinery in demanding 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,648 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Loader Operator I

Loader Operator I

Ritchie Bros.

Fremont, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 16 rated auctioneers

Job description

Job Description
We are currently offering a $1,500 sign-on bonus for eligible new hires.
Please note: If you are a temporary worker working for RB Global, you do not qualify for this bonus.
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.
Responsibilities
  • Responsible for operating all types of heavy equipment and trucks.
  • Accountable for helping to set up equipment in the yard for auctions.
  • Help customers load their equipment purchases, and answer their questions related to the yard.
  • Actively support the RB Unreserved Commitment to Safety: to send everyone home, every day, the way they came to work, by taking personal responsibility for your safety and safety of your team, co-workers and customers.
  • Learn and assist on vehicle check in tasks as needed.
  • Supports and assists with Yard Staff responsibilities as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Experience operating heavy machinery.
  • Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset.
  • Good spoken and written English is required.
  • Good computer skills and able to learn new programs quickly.
  • A track-record of working safely, and helping others work safely, too.
  • You must be able to relate well with customers and team members.
  • You like to work in a team, helping out wherever needed; but you can also self-start and work on your own.
  • Organized, and can handle lots of multiple tasks at once.
  • A high level of attention to detail.

About Us
IAA Holdings, LLC (IAA)
IAA Holdings, LLC (IAA), a Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers company (NYSE: RBA) and (TSX: RBA), is a trusted global marketplace for insights, services, and transaction solutions for commercial assets and vehicles. Leveraging leading-edge technology and focusing on innovation, IAA's unique platform facilitates the marketing and sale of total-loss, damaged and low-value vehicles. IAA serves a global buyer base - located throughout over 170 countries - and a full spectrum of sellers, including insurers, dealerships, fleet lease and rental car companies, and charitable organizations. Buyers have access to multiple digital bidding and buying channels, innovative vehicle merchandising, and efficient evaluation services, enhancing the overall purchasing experience. IAA offers sellers a comprehensive suite of services aimed at maximizing vehicle value, reducing administrative costs, shortening selling cycle time and delivering the highest economic returns.
RB Global full-time employees are offered medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurances. Employees are able to enroll in our company's 401k plan and RB Global will match 100% for the first 4% contributed. Employees will also receive 15 days of PTO each year.
About the Team
About the team - Yard Operations
We conduct hundreds of live auctions each year around the world. It takes a hardworking team of energetic people in a wide variety of full-time and part-time roles to conduct a successful multi-million dollar auction - from equipment inspectors, yard managers and operators to administrative staff and customer service representatives.

What Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply