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Side Loader Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eaton Steel Corporation

Side Loader Operator

Oak Park, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements as required by state regulations is preferred. * Proven experience operating heavy vehicles, preferably side loader trucks or ...

Metals USA

Warehouse Worker/Side Loader

York, PA · On-site

$25.81/hr

Warehouse Worker with CDL 3rd shift Metals USA is seeking a warehouse worker - side loader in York PA. Metals USA is a solid, growth oriented, carbon-steel (plate, beam, tube) distribution center ...

Metals USA

Warehouse Worker/Side Loader

York, PA · On-site

$23.71 - $24.11/hr

Warehouse Worker with CDL 3rd shift Metals USA is seeking a warehouse worker - side loader in York PA. Metals USA is a solid, growth oriented, carbon-steel (plate, beam, tube) distribution center ...

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Loader

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Operating a forklift or side loader to move material as needed * All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice Requirements

Ryerson Holding

Loader

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Operating a forklift or side loader to move material as needed * All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice Requirements:

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Loader

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Operating a forklift or side loader to move material as needed * All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice Requirements

Joseph T Ryerson & Son Inc

Loader

North Kansas City, MO

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Operating a forklift or side loader to move material as needed * All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice Requirements

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Loader

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Operating a forklift or side loader to move material as needed * All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice Requirements

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Loader

Kansas City, MO

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Operating a forklift or side loader to move material as needed * All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice Requirements

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How much do side loader driver jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for side loader driver in the United States is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Side Loader Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), strong spatial awareness, and experience operating side loader vehicles. Familiarity with vehicle maintenance, route navigation systems, and sometimes hydraulic controls is typically required. Reliability, attention to detail, and good communication skills help ensure safety and efficiency when collecting and transporting waste or materials. These skills and qualities are crucial for minimizing accidents, meeting service schedules, and maintaining high standards of safety and customer satisfaction.

What are some common challenges Side Loader Drivers face during their daily routes, and how can they manage them effectively?

Side Loader Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating narrow streets, dealing with parked vehicles blocking access to bins, and adhering to strict collection schedules. Effective communication with dispatch and local residents, as well as staying up-to-date with route changes, can help overcome these obstacles. Additionally, maintaining the vehicle and practicing safe loading techniques are crucial to ensuring efficiency and safety throughout the day.

What are Side Loader Drivers?

Side Loader Drivers are professional drivers who operate specialized trucks designed to load and unload materials from the side, rather than the rear or front. These vehicles are commonly used in industries like waste management, logistics, and construction for efficient handling of containers, pallets, or waste bins. Side Loader Drivers are responsible for safely maneuvering these vehicles in urban and industrial environments, following safety regulations, and ensuring timely deliveries or collections. They often need specific driving licenses and training to operate side loader vehicles.

What is the difference between Side Loader Driver vs Forklift Operator?

AspectSide Loader DriverForklift Operator
CredentialsDriver's license, CDL (if required)Forklift certification/license
Work EnvironmentLoading/unloading trucks, warehouse, outdoorWarehouse, manufacturing plants, indoor/outdoor
Industry UsageLogistics, distribution, retailManufacturing, warehousing, construction
Job FocusTransporting goods with side loader trucksOperating forklifts for material handling

While both roles involve material handling, a Side Loader Driver primarily operates trucks equipped with side loaders for transporting goods, often in outdoor or loading dock environments. A Forklift Operator focuses on operating forklifts within warehouses or manufacturing sites to move pallets and heavy items. Both require specific certifications and are essential in logistics and warehousing industries, but their work environments and equipment differ.

What cities are hiring for Side Loader Driver jobs? Cities with the most Side Loader Driver job openings:
What states have the most Side Loader Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Side Loader Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Side Loader Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Side Loader Driver jobs are:
Side Loader Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Side Loader Driver job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 39% Physical, 11% Hybrid, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,188 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Side Loader Operator

Eaton Steel Corporation

Oak Park, MI • On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

About the Role:

The Side Loader Operator plays a critical role in the efficient collection and transportation of steel using specialized side loader trucks. This position requires the operator to skillfully maneuver the vehicle and operate the side loading mechanism to safely and effectively pick up containers. The operator ensures that all materials are collected according to schedule while adhering to safety protocols and regulatory requirements. Attention to detail and mechanical aptitude are essential to identify and report any equipment malfunctions or safety hazards promptly.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements as required by state regulations is preferred.
  • Proven experience operating heavy vehicles, preferably side loader trucks or similar.
  • Strong knowledge of safety regulations and best practices related to vehicle/lift operation.
  • Ability to perform physical tasks including lifting, climbing, and working with heights.
  • Good communication skills and the ability to follow detailed instructions.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous experience.
  • Familiarity with GPS and route management software.
  • Basic mechanical skills for troubleshooting minor equipment issues.
  • Certification in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards or similar safety training.
  • Ability to work flexible hours including early mornings, weekends, or holidays as needed.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate side loader trucks/lifts to move steel.
  • Safely maneuver the vehicle while following company safety policies.
  • Use the side loading mechanism to lift and move steel.
  • Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the vehicle and equipment to ensure operational safety and report any issues to maintenance teams.
  • Maintain accurate records of collections and any incidents encountered during operations.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and customers to resolve changes.
  • Assist with basic maintenance and cleaning of the vehicle to ensure it remains in good working condition.

Skills:

The Side Loader Operator utilizes driving skills daily to navigate complex routes safely and efficiently, ensuring timely movement of steel. Mechanical aptitude is applied when operating the side loading mechanism and performing routine vehicle inspections to maintain equipment reliability. Communication skills are essential for coordinating with team members and addressing customer concerns professionally. Time management and organizational skills help the operator adhere to strict schedules and maintain accurate records. Additionally, knowledge of safety protocols is critical to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with regulatory standards throughout all operations.