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Pay Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections

Loader Operator

Clearlake, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... Operator to work out of our site in Clearlake, CA ! Schedule is Monday through Saturday, 7AM-4PM ... The pay range for this job category is $20-$24 per hour. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Ability to ...

City of St. Peters

$17.50 - $23/hr

Market-based pay structure with step placement determined by qualifications and experience ... Peters as a Transfer Station Loader Operator. All candidates for this position will be subject to a ...

CalPortland

Utility Specialist/Loader Operator

Napa, CA · On-site

$35 - $39/hr

Compensation $25/hourly - Probationary pay; $35-$39/hourly - Post probationary period pay ... Experience operating loaders, man lifts, and forklifts * Experience operating equipment outside in ...

Advanced Drainage Systems

Yard Loader

San Jose, CA

$20.65 - $23.60/hr

Loaders report directly to the Yard Supervisor and/or Yard Manager. Responsibilities: The ... Bereavement Pay * Jury Duty * Military Leave Hourly Range: $20.65 - $23.60 Individual pay may vary ...

Advanced Drainage Systems

Yard Loader

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20.65 - $23.60/hr

Loaders report directly to the Yard Supervisor and/or Yard Manager. Responsibilities: The ... Bereavement Pay * Jury Duty * Military Leave Hourly Range: $20.65 - $23.60 Individual pay may vary ...

Advanced Drainage Systems

Yard Loader

Alviso, CA · On-site

$20.65 - $23.60/hr

Loaders report directly to the Yard Supervisor and/or Yard Manager. Responsibilities: The ... Bereavement Pay * Jury Duty * Military Leave Hourly Range: $20.65 - $23.60 Individual pay may vary ...

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Utility Operator

Bloomington, CA

$36.44 - $44.67/hr

Fills in for the Plant Operator or Loader Operator when regular staff are out * Follows all company ... The pay range for this position is $36.44 to $44.67 per hour. The pay rate offered will be ...

Arcosa Lightweight

Utility Operator

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$36.44 - $44.67/hr

Fills in for the Plant Operator or Loader Operator when regular staff are out * Follows all company ... The pay range for this position is $36.44 to $44.67 per hour. The pay rate offered will be ...

MHX, LLC

Fuel Loader - Transload Operator

Fontana, CA

$23 - $25/hr

Fuel Loader - Transload Operator Location: Fontana, CA Job Type: Full-time, non-exempt, hourly ... Pay: $23-$25/hour, based on experience Pay dates: Weekly, on Fridays MHX, LLC is looking for a self ...

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 ...

SkySource Solutions

Be Seen First

Material Handler Loader

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $24.50/hr

San Diego, CA Schedule: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM, Monday-Friday Pay Rate: $20/hr Job Summary We are ... and operating material‐handling equipment. Candidates must be comfortable working in a ...

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All JobsPay Loader Operator JobsPay Loader Operator Jobs in California

Pay Loader Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do pay loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for pay loader operator in California is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Pay Loader Operators on construction sites?

Pay Loader Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight or uneven job sites, working in variable weather conditions, and coordinating with multiple teams to ensure efficient material handling. Adhering to strict safety protocols while maintaining productivity can also be demanding, especially during peak construction periods. Effective communication with supervisors and other equipment operators is essential to prevent delays and ensure the safe movement of materials.

What are Pay Loader Operators?

Pay Loader Operators are skilled workers who operate pay loaders, also known as front-end loaders or wheel loaders. These heavy equipment machines are used to move, load, and transport materials such as soil, gravel, sand, and debris on construction sites, in mines, or at other industrial locations. Operators are responsible for safely maneuvering the machine, performing routine maintenance checks, and ensuring efficient operation according to safety standards. They often work closely with other construction or site workers to support various project needs.

How much does a load operator make?

A pay loader operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Experienced operators with certifications and familiarity with equipment like forklifts or skid steers may earn higher wages, especially in construction or mining environments.

What does a pay loader do?

A pay loader operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery called pay loaders or front-end loaders to move, load, and unload materials such as soil, gravel, or debris. They typically work in construction, mining, or industrial sites and need to be skilled in operating the equipment safely and efficiently. Certification and knowledge of safety protocols are often required for this role.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Pay loader operators in construction, mining, or heavy equipment industries can sometimes earn $700 or more per day, especially with overtime, experience, or specialized certifications. High-paying roles often require operating large machinery, working in remote or demanding environments, and adhering to safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pay Loader Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pay Loader Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety regulations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by relevant vocational training. Familiarity with pay loader controls, basic mechanical systems, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA safety or equipment-specific licensure are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, accurate, and efficient operation of machinery in construction, mining, or warehouse environments.

What is the difference between Pay Loader Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectPay Loader OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often preferred, safety certificationsSimilar certifications, including safety and equipment operation licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, material handlingConstruction sites, excavation projects, demolition
Job DutiesLoading/unloading materials, moving earth, site cleanupDigging trenches, lifting heavy materials, excavation tasks

Both Pay Loader Operators and Excavator Operators work in construction and mining environments, often requiring similar certifications. The main difference lies in their equipment: Pay Loader Operators handle loaders for loading and moving materials, while Excavator Operators operate excavators for digging and excavation tasks.

How much does a loader get paid?

A loader operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment may earn higher wages, especially in construction or industrial settings.
What are popular job titles related to Pay Loader Operator jobs in California? For Pay Loader Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pay Loader Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Pay Loader Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Pay Loader Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Pay Loader Operator job openings:
Pay Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pay Loader Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,648 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Loader Operator

Loader Operator

Waste Connections

Clearlake, CA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 263 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 88 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Quackenbush Resource, a Waste Connections Company, is currently hiring for a full time Equipment Operator to work out of our site in Clearlake, CA!
Schedule is Monday through Saturday, 7AM-4PM. Starting pay is $20 per hour. The pay range for this job category is $20-$24 per hour.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Ability to efficiently operate screeners, loaders, excavator and other equipment as needed.
Assists with the scale house as needed.
Performs routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking oil, water, and tires.
Ensures proper care in the use and maintenance of equipment and supplies.
Promotes continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.
Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL EFFORT:
  • Extensive physical activity. Requires strenuous physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling required of objects over 50 pounds.

  • Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.

  • Ability to operate heavy equipment is required.

  • Knowledge of basic computer skills.

  • Knowledge of light and heavy equipment operation and maintenance.

  • Knowledge of basic vehicle inspection and maintenance including tire pressure, checking oil and water levels.

  • Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • Minimum 1 year of operating experience that is directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

  • Basic knowledge of computer skills.

Apply today and Connect with Your Future!
We offer excellent benefits including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement.
Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.

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