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Loader Operator Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Dole

Loader/Lumper

Atwater, CA · On-site

$17.78/hr

Load boxes/cases onto trucks * Move boxes weighing up to 50 pounds * Stack product * Count boxes ... Forklift Specialty pay will be received by those operating a forklift for more than two hours and ...

Valley Milk LLC

Warehouse Operator

Turlock, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

To load trailers/trucks with finished products in safe and efficient manner. Will receive inbound ... Must attain a Forklift Operator License within 30 days of hire.

Propak

Forklift Operator

Firebaugh, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Ensure forklift is in safe operating condition. * Refuel tanks, following procedures to change out ... Complete and confirm accuracy of loads on paper or electronically, verifying counts of good and bad ...

The Neil Jones Food Company

Forklift Operator 2

Firebaugh, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Load, unload, and move product in a safe and efficient manner; load and unload trucks using the ... Forklift Operator Level II. * Experience thoroughly inspecting and driving a forklift in a safe ...

HYDRA

Forklift Operator

Atwater, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Safely and efficiently stage, load, and unload finished product and raw materials through the use ... Operate within standard operating procedures (SOPs) and Job Safety Analysis (JSAs). * Operate sit ...

Dole Packaged Foods

Loader/Lumper

Atwater, CA

$17.78/hr

Load boxes/cases onto trucks * Move boxes weighing up to 50 pounds * Stack product * Count boxes ... Forklift Specialty pay will be received by those operating a forklift for more than two hours and ...

Dole Packaged Foods

Loader/Lumper

Atwater, CA · On-site

$17.78/hr

Load boxes/cases onto trucks * Move boxes weighing up to 50 pounds * Stack product * Count boxes ... Forklift Specialty pay will be received by those operating a forklift for more than two hours and ...

Dole Packaged Foods

Loader/Lumper

Atwater, CA · On-site

$17.78/hr

Load boxes/cases onto trucks * Move boxes weighing up to 50 pounds * Stack product * Count boxes ... Forklift Specialty pay will be received by those operating a forklift for more than two hours and ...

Dole Packaged Foods

Loader/Lumper

Atwater, CA · On-site

$17.78/hr

Load boxes/cases onto trucks * Move boxes weighing up to 50 pounds * Stack product * Count boxes ... Forklift Specialty pay will be received by those operating a forklift for more than two hours and ...

Propak Supply Chain Services

Forklift Operator

Firebaugh, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

... load and unload pallets to and from trailers as well as move pallets to correct locations ... Ensure forklift is in safe operating condition. * Refuel tanks,following procedures tochangeout ...

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All JobsLoader Operator JobsLoader Operator Jobs in Merced, CA

Loader Operator information

See Merced, CA salary details

$11

$20

$29

How much do loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for loader operator in Merced, CA is $20.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $23.61 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 Merced, CA? For Loader Operator jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Loader Operator jobs in Merced, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Loader Operator jobs in Merced, CA are:
What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Loader Operator job openings:
Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Loader Operator job openings in Merced, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,495 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operator (Barn Loader Operator) - 3rd Shift

Heavy Equipment Operator (Barn Loader Operator) - 3rd Shift

American Wood Fibers, Inc

Jamestown, CA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 hours ago

American Wood Fibers rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 7 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 450+ employees and holds operations at 11 locations, generating over $100M in annual sales revenue. We are currently seeking a candidate for the 3rd Shift Heavy Equipment (Barn Loader Operator) role at our Jamestown, CA plant.

JOB SUMMARY

The Heavy Equipment ( Barn Loader Operator) is responsible for working in a safe, efficient manner to maximize the shipping and receiving of finished goods and materials.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • SHIPPING/RECEIVING
  • Operate the mobile equipment (loader, Skid Steer, or yard truck) in a safe and efficient manner while loading trucks with packaged and bulk material
  • Load AWF and customer trailers
  • Complete shipping and receiving paperwork
  • QUALITY
  • Maintain and verify that all current quality assurance measures are being followed and communicated to supervisors, production employees, truck drivers, office personnel, and customers
  • Assist in the design and implementation of new procedures as needed
  • PRODUCTION
  • Operate machinery that produces and packages products
  • Operate stretch wrapper by setting palletized bales on machine: starting, stopping, and cutting stretch wrap, then removing wrapped pallet to transfer to storage
  • OTHER
  • Attend and participate in a monthly safety meeting
  • Establish personal growth and working relationship with fellow employees to further improvement and teamwork
  • Maintain cleanliness of work station and related areas

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs.
  • Physical capability to bend, squat, or stoop
  • Valid Drivers License REQUIRED

EXPERIENCE LEVEL

  • Manufacturing: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Industrial Equipment: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Packaging: 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 an hour


Due to the nature of our business, American Wood Fibers requires a tobacco and smoke-free environment. We offer a competitive package to include health, dental, vision and life insurance, plus profit bonus, paid time off and matching 401(k).

For more company information, please visit our web site www.awf.com. AWF is an EEO employer.

Corporate Office

9740 Patuxent Woods Drive, Ste. 500

Columbia, MD 21046

800-624-9663 / 410-290-8700

Fax 410-290-6660

Other Locations

Jessup, MD / Schofield, WI / Pella, IA / Lebanon, KY / Marysville, CA / Marshall, TX / Circleville, OH / Marion, VA / Jamestown, CA / Laurinburg, NC

Visit us at: www.awf.com


Sunday - Thursday

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