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Material Handling Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AMRESCO

Material Handling Supervisor

Carpinteria, CA

... operators, material handlers and/or administrative support staff. * Sets daily priorities for the ... Occasional lifting, carrying, or handling of materials up to approximately 25-40 pounds, as needed ...

AMRESCO

Material Handling Supervisor

Bakersfield, CA

... operators, material handlers and/or administrative support staff. * Sets daily priorities for the ... Occasional lifting, carrying, or handling of materials up to approximately 25-40 pounds, as needed ...

ProAmpac

Associate - Material Handling

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$22.84/hr

Associate - Material Handling Job Category: Operations/Production/Manufacturing Requisition Number ... Notify operator or supervisor of any product that has not met correct manufacturing specifications.

ProAmpac

Associate - Material Handling

Buena Park, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $18.75/hr

PRODUCTIVITY: 1. Keeping machine line clear. 2. Cross check with operators to ensure customer requirements are met in regard to palletization. 3. Cell phone use is not permitted in manufacturing area.

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Material Handling Operator information

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How much do material handling operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for material handling operator in California is $17.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a material handling operator do?

A Material Handling Operator is responsible for moving, loading, unloading, and storing materials within warehouses, factories, or other industrial settings. They typically operate forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment to transport goods safely and efficiently. Their duties also include keeping records of materials moved, inspecting equipment for safety, and sometimes assisting with inventory management. Material Handling Operators play a crucial role in ensuring smooth logistics and preventing workplace accidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a material handling operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Material Handling Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, familiarity with warehouse procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Operating forklifts, pallet jacks, and warehouse management systems, often requiring OSHA certification, is essential. Attention to detail, communication, and teamwork are important soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient movement of goods and smooth warehouse operations.

What are some common challenges material handling operators face, and how are they addressed on the job?

Material Handling Operators often work in fast-paced environments where efficiency and safety are paramount. Common challenges include managing heavy or awkward loads, adapting to changing inventory demands, and operating machinery in tight spaces. These challenges are typically addressed through thorough safety training, regular equipment maintenance, and clear communication with team members. Many organizations also implement standardized procedures and use technology to streamline workflow and reduce the risk of errors or accidents.

What is the difference between Material Handling Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectMaterial Handling OperatorForklift Operator
Required CredentialsTypically no formal certification required, but OSHA training may be preferredForklift certification/license often required
Work EnvironmentWarehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing plantsWarehouses, loading docks, construction sites
Job DutiesMoving, stacking, and organizing materials manually or with equipmentOperating forklifts to lift and transport heavy loads
Industry UsageCommon in logistics, manufacturing, retailPrimarily in logistics, shipping, and warehousing

While both roles involve moving materials in similar environments, a Material Handling Operator may perform manual tasks and operate various equipment, whereas a Forklift Operator specializes in operating forklifts and often requires specific certification. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much do material handling operators make in the US?

Material handling operators in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications or specialized skills can earn higher wages. The job often involves operating forklifts, pallet jacks, and other equipment in warehouses or distribution centers.

Is material handling a good career?

Material handling is a stable career that involves operating equipment like forklifts and managing inventory in warehouses or distribution centers. It often requires physical effort, attention to safety protocols, and may offer opportunities for advancement with experience and certifications. The job can provide steady employment and is essential to supply chain operations.

What are popular job titles related to Material Handling Operator jobs in California?

For Material Handling Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Material Handling Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Material Handling Operator jobs in California are:

Material Handling Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Handling Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,390 per year, or $18 per hour.

Operator, Transload II - Material Handling

Carson, CA • On-site

Savage Arms
Sporting Product Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Savage Armsexternal

$36.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Material Handling - Operator-Equipment

Savage is a global provider of supply chain infrastructure and logistics solutions with more than 200 locations across the United States, Canada, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. Since we were founded in 1946, we've grown from a small family business to an international company with more than 4,000 team members. We're proud to be recognized as a Military Friendly Employer and a Top Company for Women to Work in Transportation. Savage is a place where your growth is supported and your impact matters. Join us and do things you never dreamed possible. We welcome Military Veterans and Reservists to join our team and build a rewarding career with us. Military experience equivalency may substitute for some requirements.

The successful Material Handling - Operator-Equipment candidate will safely perform the basic tasks required to load, unload, and move petroleum coke at the Marathon Refinery located in Wilmington, CA.

These are just a few of the benefits you can expect from working with Savage:

  • Pay $36.25 per hour
  • We provide uniforms & PPE (laundering included)
  • Steel Toe Boot Allowance $350 annually
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Paid Holidays
  • Profit Sharing
  • Excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match

What you'll be doing:

This position is part of an operations team that ensures that the refinery is operating in a safe and efficient manner. This position will operate and maintain the conveyor belt system and truck load out. Aggregate material sampling, light equipment (skid steer), refinery clean up, and perform maintenance and repairs as necessary. This position typically works 4 days on and 4 days off AM and PM rotating shifts two weeks days and two weeks on nights. Each shift is 12 hours.

  • Operate and maintain heavy equipment, aggregate material crushing equipment, and conveying and load out systems, and aggregate material storage, and load out/shipping equipment
  • This position must have experience in the general operation and maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment used in aggregate material handling, conveyor systems, and truck loading systems
  • Must understand the basics of Electrical and control systems
  • Implement and use the Savage preventative maintenance program and tracking software
  • This position will report to the Operations and Maintenance Manager
  • Responsibilities are not all-inclusive and may change based on the needs of the company.

Requirements of a Successful Equipment Operator:

  • Duties include maintaining the equipment necessary to move and load aggregate material within the handling facility
  • Good communication skills, self-motivated, and proactive
  • Must be qualified to safely operate "light equipment"
  • Education/Experience:
  • Industrial safe-work practices and procedures
  • Must be able to speak, read, and write in English

Here are some of the physical requirements for this role:

This position is in a heavy industrial setting with the need to be able to interface with truck drivers, operate all systems required to load trucks and other pieces of mobile equipment as needed.

  • The position will require the individual to be able to safely climb ladders with a 4-point contact,
  • Shoveling aggregate material and other cleanup-related tasks
  • Work at heights as well as climbing stairs
  • Lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must wear proper personal protective equipment as environment and position dictate

Must have a solid understanding of lockout/tagout "LOTO" procedures

Additional Information:

  • A complete job description is available upon request
  • Savage is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug-free workplace
  • California Residents Job Application Privacy Notice
  • You may view available jobs at www.savageco.com/careers and apply using the online job posting.
  • Team members may be eligible for a benefits package that is dependent on hours worked and position classification. This package may include medical, dental, and vision coverage; life, AD&D, and disability insurance; supplemental coverage options; health savings and flexible spending accounts; paid time off; profit sharing; and a 401(k) plan with company match. Benefits are subject to change. For more information visit https://savageco.com/careers/benefits-information/

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