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Loading Dock Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AEG

Dock Assistant (Part-Time)

Inglewood, CA · On-site

$38K - $51K/yr

The Loading Dock Assistant will be responsible for the proper tracking of received packages via 24/7 software and the distribution of those packages to the appropriate parties. Additionally, this ...

Forward Air

Operations Dock Supervisor

Compton, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Operations Dock Supervisor Available Schedule: Saturday through Wednesday, 3:00 AM - 1:00 PM ... Assign job tasks to workers according to unloading and loading schedules * Provide guidance to ...

Forward Air

Operations Dock Supervisor

Compton, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Operations Dock Supervisor Available Schedule: Saturday through Wednesday, 3:00 AM - 1:00 PM ... Assign job tasks to workers according to unloading and loading schedules * Provide guidance to ...

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Loading Dock information

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How much do loading dock jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for loading dock in California is $17.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a loading dock worker?

Loading dock workers, also known as dockworkers or material handlers, are responsible for loading and unloading goods from trucks, trailers, or shipping containers at warehouses or distribution centers. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of products within the supply chain. Their duties often include operating forklifts or pallet jacks, inspecting shipments, and maintaining accurate inventory records. Loading dock workers must follow safety protocols to prevent accidents and damage to goods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a loading dock worker?

To thrive as a Loading Dock Worker, you need basic physical fitness, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pallet jacks, forklifts, and warehouse management systems is often required, and OSHA forklift certification is a plus. Strong teamwork, communication, and time management skills help individuals excel in this fast-paced environment. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient handling of goods and smooth logistics operations.

What are some typical challenges faced when working on a loading dock, and how can they be managed?

Working on a loading dock often involves handling heavy equipment, managing tight shipping schedules, and ensuring safety while loading and unloading goods. Common challenges include dealing with inclement weather, coordinating with drivers and warehouse staff, and maintaining accuracy in inventory tracking. These can be managed by adhering to safety protocols, communicating effectively with team members, and staying organized to prevent errors and accidents. Ongoing training and teamwork are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring efficient dock operations.

What is the difference between Loading Dock vs Warehouse Associate?

AspectLoading DockWarehouse Associate
Primary RoleLoading and unloading shipments, managing dock operationsGeneral warehouse tasks, inventory handling, order fulfillment
Work EnvironmentDock areas, loading bays, outdoor or semi-outdoorWarehouse floors, storage areas, indoor
CertificationsForklift certification often requiredBasic safety and forklift certifications may be needed
Industry UsageLogistics, transportation, distribution centersWarehousing, retail, manufacturing

While both roles are essential in logistics and warehousing, Loading Docks focus on managing shipments at the dock, whereas Warehouse Associates handle broader inventory and order tasks inside the warehouse. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How hard is it to become a loading dock worker?

Becoming a loading dock worker typically requires minimal formal education and physical stamina, as the job involves lifting, moving, and organizing goods. Employers often look for reliability, basic safety awareness, and the ability to operate equipment like forklifts, which may require certification. The job usually offers on-the-job training and may have varying physical demands depending on the workplace.

What are the most commonly searched types of Loading Dock jobs in California?

The most popular types of Loading Dock jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Loading Dock jobs?

Cities in California with the most Loading Dock job openings:

Loading Dock jobs near you
Infographic showing various Loading Dock job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,764 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Dock Worker Scanner Operator Subzero/Loading Dock - Cherry (Nights)

Foster Farms

Fresno, CA • On-site

$17.70/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago

Foster Farms rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 445 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

About Foster Farms
At Foster Farms, our mission is creating great food and serving great moments. Our vision is to be the best and most trusted food company, empowering and nourishing the lives of those we serve. We measure our success by how well we protect and care for our team, our consumers, our animals, and our environment, while delivering operational excellence and exceptional value to our customers.
Job Description
Pay Range:$17.70 per hour
(Additional $1.00 per hour for hours worked between 7:00pm and 11:59pm. Additional $2.00 per hour for hours worked between 12:00am-4:59am)
Essential Job Functions:
  • Retrieve products from cooler or freezer, accurately count cases based on work orders, tally case weights, and load trailers.
  • Operate pallet jack or forklift to move pallets of cases to the loading dock and restack cases as necessary.
  • Utilize a calculator or scanner to tally products by type according to work orders.
  • Load products into trailers using a forklift or pallet jack as per the order specifications.
  • Proficiently use a handheld scanner.
  • Clean and wash out trailers.
  • Adjust trailer A/C units and set them to the desired temperatures.
  • Dock Safety: follow procedures for chalking and locking out trailers. Ensure the safe loading and unloading of pallets plus utilizing dock levelers effectively.
Qualifications
REQUIREMENTS
  • Valid license to operate a pallet jack/forklift (training provided).
  • Ability to stand for extended periods (8+ hours) on concrete floors and perform extensive walking.
  • Capable of repetitive grasping motions and lifting/restacking up to 75 pounds.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision.
  • Proficiency in basic math calculations using a calculator.
  • Legible handwriting in English.
  • Availability to work overtime and weekends.
  • Ability to work in a cold environment (-40 degrees).
  • Ability to clean and wash out trailers.
Additional Functions:
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Maintain cleanliness of the work area as needed.
Foster Farms ACTION Guiding Principles
  • Accountability: Deliver on commitments.
  • Collaboration: Achieve more by working as a team.
  • Truth-Seeking: Be open-minded and act with humility.
  • Initiative: Be proactive and lead with a growth mindset.
  • Ownership: Take responsibility for results.
  • Nimble: Operate with speed and agility.

Why Join Foster Farms?
This is a high-impact opportunity to shape the future of the ready-to-eat business at a leading food company,
directly supporting our mission, vision, and values. You will play a critical role in delivering safe, high-quality
food and great moments for millions of families.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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