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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 ...

OWNER OPERATORS: Keep Your Truck. Lose the Headaches. Tired of Running Your Own Authority ... No rollover or rear-end accidents within the past 3 years Stop worrying about finding the next load ...

OWNER OPERATORS: Keep Your Truck. Lose the Headaches. Tired of Running Your Own Authority ... No rollover or rear-end accidents within the past 3 years Stop worrying about finding the next load ...

OWNER OPERATORS: Keep Your Truck. Lose the Headaches. Tired of Running Your Own Authority ... No rollover or rear-end accidents within the past 3 years Stop worrying about finding the next load ...

OWNER OPERATORS: Keep Your Truck. Lose the Headaches. Tired of Running Your Own Authority ... No rollover or rear-end accidents within the past 3 years Stop worrying about finding the next load ...

OWNER OPERATORS: Keep Your Truck. Lose the Headaches. Tired of Running Your Own Authority ... No rollover or rear-end accidents within the past 3 years Stop worrying about finding the next load ...

OWNER OPERATORS: Keep Your Truck. Lose the Headaches. Tired of Running Your Own Authority ... No rollover or rear-end accidents within the past 3 years Stop worrying about finding the next load ...

OWNER OPERATORS: Keep Your Truck. Lose the Headaches. Tired of Running Your Own Authority ... No rollover or rear-end accidents within the past 3 years Stop worrying about finding the next load ...

OWNER OPERATORS: Keep Your Truck. Lose the Headaches. Tired of Running Your Own Authority ... No rollover or rear-end accidents within the past 3 years Stop worrying about finding the next load ...

OWNER OPERATORS: Keep Your Truck. Lose the Headaches. Tired of Running Your Own Authority ... No rollover or rear-end accidents within the past 3 years Stop worrying about finding the next load ...

OWNER OPERATORS: Keep Your Truck. Lose the Headaches. Tired of Running Your Own Authority ... No rollover or rear-end accidents within the past 3 years Stop worrying about finding the next load ...

Showing results 41-60

Loader Operator information

See Merced, CA salary details

$11

$20

$29

How much do loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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 environment is typically construction sites, warehouses, or mining operations.

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 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 August 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.

MACHINE OPERATOR I

Joseph Farms

Atwater, CA • On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

We are one of the most respected premium all-natural cheese makers in North America, and we continue to win prestigious awards for, not only our high-quality products, but also in recognition of our passion for sustainable practices. Today, we are in our third generation as a family business, who seeks innovative opportunities to maximize profitability & return on all assets, while being a trusted & responsible employer, who actively participates in the community & who cherishes the natural environment.
Our success is based upon the quality of the employees that we hire-top-notch talent who share our company's commitment to our customers and a passion for making the country's finest quality products, using only all natural ingredients.
Our employees are our greatest driving force, and we pride ourselves on ensuring their stability. All our employees receive Life Insurance, and Employee Assistance Program! Joseph Gallo Farms also offers a competitive benefits package at a group rate to all our full-time employees and their dependents.
Benefits:
  • 401(k) retirement plan w/ company match
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Educational Reimbursement
  • Paid time off (vacation, sick, holidays, etc.)
  • Free cheese!

Requirements
Summary of Functions:
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 tasks accurately, according to specifications and in a timely fashion.
Major Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Set up machinery ensuring all production materials are available.
  • Make adjustment to line as needed to keep line under control.
  • Replace plastic film rolls when necessary.
  • Assist with change overs as necessary.
  • Assist with breaks and lunch relief.
  • Assists in training of new employees.
  • Safely operate and monitor all equipment.
  • Visually inspect production run and report malfunctions to maintenance department.
  • Maintain required records.
  • Maintain cleanliness of assigned area.
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory, company policies and procedures.
  • Provide leadership and training to Operators on their respective shifts according to the Department skills and Training Matrixs.
  • Cover other employees vacation and or absences.
  • Able to wear proper PPE which includes: smock, boots, hairnet, face net, safety hat and safety glasses. If needed use knee pads, plastic apron and sleeve guards.
  • Must be able to communicate with management team through walkie talkie radio.
  • Requires operate machinery such as Hayseen, Fallas, Combi, Robox, Butler, Multivac, Tiromat and Hydrovac.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • High School diploma or GED required.
  • 1-3 year of general work experience required.
  • Prior production/manufacturing machine operation experience preferred.
  • Previous experience within high-speed industrial environment.
  • Strong, logical decision-making skills.
  • Experience with time management and multitasking.
  • Exhibit sense of ownership and accountability.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Demonstrated comfort with data entry and proficient computer skills.
  • Fork-lift certification/experience desired.
  • Ability to operate manufacturing equipment.
  • Knowledge of industrial technology a plus.
  • Bilingual desired not required.

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Effectively handle lifting of various objects weighing up to 80 pounds.
  • Must be able to be standing and walking 90% of the day.
  • Must be able to be bending 60% of the day.
  • Must be able to be squatting and climbing stairs 40% of the day.
  • Must be able to be kneeling 50% of the day.
  • Must be able to be twisting 80% of the day.

Upper Extremity Use:
  • Must be able to apply fine manipulation continuously.
  • Must be able to occasionally use pinch type activity of the fingers.
  • Must be able to frequently use power grasping.
  • Must be able to frequently be pushing or pulling.
  • Must be able to frequently be reaching below shoulder level.
  • Must be able to continuously use repetitive motion behavior.

Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Regular exposure to elements such as odor, noise, dust, heat, cold or chemicals.
This description is a general statement and does not include other duties as assigned.
Joseph Gallo Farms is an Equal Opportunity Employer / EEO
Salary Description
$19.00 - $22.00