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Loader Operator Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

MACHINE OPERATOR I

Atwater, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

The packaging Machine Operator position sets up and operates a production machine in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. This position also adjusts machine settings to complete ...

PURPOSE Responsible for driving delivery vehicles and/or operating truck-trailer combinations to ... May load or assist with loading and appropriately securing product, materials, or supplies inside ...

PURPOSE Responsible for driving delivery vehicles and/or operating truck-trailer combinations to ... May load or assist with loading and appropriately securing product, materials, or supplies inside ...

Part-time Associate - 385 Merced

Merced, CA

$16.25 - $18.50/hr

... operating a cash register, carry-out services and store cleaning. Specific duties include, but are ... When requested, loads customer purchases by assisting customers to their vehicles. * Performs basic ...

... operating a cash register, carry-out services and store cleaning. Specific duties include, but are ... When requested, loads customer purchases by assisting customers to their vehicles. * Performs basic ...

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Loader Operator information

See Merced, CA salary details

$11

$20

$29

How much do loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 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 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.
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 cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Loader Operator job openings in Merced, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,495 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
R.O. Operator Relief

$24.55 - $30.14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Dairy Farmers Of America rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 156 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 53 rated farming


Job description

Relief for 3PM-11:30PM and 11PM-7:30AM ShiftswithRotating Days Off

General Purpose: Monitor and process whey to meet customer's specifications. Operate whey equipment in a safe, efficient and productive manner.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Operate a Whey HTST Pasteurizer
  • Operate a Whey Cream Batch Pasteurizing system
  • Operate a Whey Clarifier
  • Operate a MSA-300 Separator
  • Operate and CIP Ultra Filtration units
  • Operate and CIP Reverse Osmosis units
  • Operate R.O. Polisher units
  • Operate a CIP system
  • Adjust all equipment to meet production specifications
  • Communicate with truck drivers professionally
  • Load out WPC
  • Load out Lactose
  • Perform a safe and sanitary operation
  • Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
  • Dedicate effort to safety as we expect every employee to leave work in the same condition as they arrive
  • Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
  • Exhibit the values and ethics of Dairy Farmers of America through honesty, discretion, and sound judgment
  • Adhere to all DFA Quality, Safety and GMP policies and procedures and report any nonconformity
  • Attend required training, including but not limited to, Safety, GMP, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP), and Safe Quality Foods (SQF)
  • Responsible for monitoring and taking corrective actions when necessary for a critical control point as part of the plant HACCP plan
  • Ensure that all documentation is done correctly and turned in promptly
  • The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required.

Pay

  • Competitive pay -$24.55 - $30.14 per hour based on experience
  • Rate includes $1.00 shift differential for hours worked between 6 PM and 6 AM
  • Paid Overtime

BENEFITS

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401k Employer Match
  • Life Insurance - Company Paid
  • AD&D, STD and LTD - Company Paid
  • 144 hours of Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Sick Time
  • Sign-On Bonus $1,500

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