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Seasonal Bucket Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fuels Crew Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$18.84 - $21.81/hr

... trees, operating skid steer with masticator, grapple bucket and chipper to remove small trees ... seasonal weather (summer heat, cold weather, rain). Position requires repetitive sitting, foot ...

Fuels Crew Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$18.84 - $21.81/hr

... trees, operating skid steer with masticator, grapple bucket and chipper to remove small trees ... seasonal weather (summer heat, cold weather, rain). Position requires repetitive sitting, foot ...

Seasonal Bucket Operator information

What does a seasonal bucket operator do?

A Seasonal Bucket Operator is responsible for operating a bucket truck, typically during peak seasons such as storm recovery, utility maintenance, or tree trimming operations. Their main duties involve safely maneuvering the bucket truck to allow workers to reach elevated areas, performing minor maintenance on the equipment, and ensuring all safety protocols are followed. The role is seasonal, often aligning with periods of increased demand due to weather events or specific project timelines. Good communication skills and adherence to safety standards are essential for this position.

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

To thrive as a Seasonal Bucket Operator, you generally need experience in operating aerial lift equipment, a valid driver’s license, and knowledge of safety regulations related to tree care or utility work. Familiarity with hydraulic lift systems, personal protective equipment (PPE), and sometimes OSHA certifications are important technical requirements. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team under physically demanding conditions are crucial soft skills. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring safety, efficiency, and effective coordination in potentially hazardous outdoor environments.

What are some common challenges faced by seasonal bucket operators and how can they be addressed?

Seasonal Bucket Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring safety while operating at heights. Adapting quickly to changing environments and maintaining clear communication with ground crews are essential for efficiency and safety. Proper training, regular equipment checks, and staying updated on safety protocols help address these challenges, making teamwork and preparedness key to success in the role.

What is the difference between Seasonal Bucket Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectSeasonal Bucket OperatorCrane Operator
Required CertificationsOSHA certification, equipment-specific trainingOSHA certification, crane operation license
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, agricultural settings, landscaping projectsConstruction sites, industrial facilities, shipping yards
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, landscaping, agricultureConstruction, shipping, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for equipment operation roles involving bucketsMore specialized, but related in heavy equipment operation

The Seasonal Bucket Operator and Crane Operator roles both require equipment operation certifications and are used in construction and industrial environments. However, the Seasonal Bucket Operator typically handles excavators or loaders with buckets in outdoor, seasonal projects, while Crane Operators focus on lifting with cranes in more specialized settings. Both roles are essential in heavy equipment operation, but they differ in equipment type and work scope.

What job categories do people searching Seasonal Bucket Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Seasonal Bucket Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Seasonal Bucket Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Seasonal Bucket Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Seasonal Bucket Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Fuels Crew Technician

Jackson Family Wines

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$18.84 - $21.81/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Jackson Family Wines rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

The Fuels Crew Technician operates in the Wildland Urban Interface and is responsible for operating chainsaws, string trimmers and hand tools to limb up trees, operating skid steer with masticator, grapple bucket and chipper to remove small trees, bushes, and other vegetation to provide a fire resilient landscape enterprise wide.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES:
  • Competently operate large and small power machinery to include chainsaws, string trimmers, skid steer, masticators, grapple buckets and other tools.
  • Operates multiple tools to limb up trees, remove small trees, bushes, and other vegetation as directed.
  • Operates tractor with mower attachment.
  • Moves cut vegetation to a chipper and feeds vegetation into the chipper.
  • Participates in the JFW Fire Prevention Team.
  • Participate in JFW and OSHA safety training.
  • Maintains all of equipment and/or implements in a clean and operational manner.
  • Performs basic maintenance on equipment and reports equipment deficiencies to manager.
  • Reports all mechanical deficiencies to manager immediately.
  • Participation in pile burning.
  • Must follow all safety procedures and prioritize safety at all times.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
Essential Skills, Experience, and Education
  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Valid class C California driver's license required.
  • Must be able to haul equipment and tow trailer with a truck.
  • Fully knowledgeable of and proven experience safely operating chainsaws, string trimmers, hand tools, skid steer, tractor and chipper.
  • Must be able to read, interpret and follow all Company rules including Company's safety rules and regulations at all times.
  • Able to read and understand rules of operation and maintenance manuals.
Other: The work schedule is 8-hour days. Each day starts and ends at the Kellogg Ranch (Knights Valley in Sonoma County).
Physical Requirements:
  • Strength, stamina and agility are necessary to hike steep, uneven terrain while carrying heavy equipment.
  • Must be able to frequently lift, carry, and or move up to 50 pounds repetitively; is exposed to wet and or humid conditions, dust as well as seasonal weather (summer heat, cold weather, rain). Position requires repetitive sitting, foot controls, kneeling,
  • May work on high sloped terrain.
  • Position requires repetitive sitting, foot controls, kneeling, bending, stooping, walking.
WAGE TRANSPARENCY:
The base pay for this role ranges from $18.84 - $21.81per hour. Compensation will be determined by candidate experience, skills, and location.
BENEFITS:
  • Health Benefits - Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability & Life insurance
  • 401k with employer match
  • Generous time off including vacation, holidays, and paid health time
  • Paid volunteer time
  • Learning & Development opportunities
  • Modern Health virtual mental health & coaching visits
  • Wine discounts!
Jackson Family Wines is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. All employment decisions are based on merit and business needs.
Employment Type: Regular Full Time (RFT) New Headcount

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