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Side Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Castle Metals

2nd Shift Machine Operator

Paramount, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Description Position at Banner Industries The Machine Operator is responsible for the setup ... Capable of being certified in assigned equipment (waterjet machine, forklift, Raymond side-loader ...

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Warehouse Operator

Vernon, CA · On-site

$29.26/hr

Warehouse Operator Req Id: 2936 Workplace Type: On-Site Job Shift: 1st Brand: Ryerson Job Location ... Forklift/side-loader experience * Ability to safely operate the Overhead crane preferred * Prior ...

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Warehouse Operator

Vernon, CA · On-site

$29.26/hr

Warehouse Operator Req Id: 2935 Workplace Type: On-Site Job Shift: 1st Brand: Ryerson Job Location ... Forklift/side-loader experience * Ability to safely operate the Overhead crane preferred * Prior ...

Pacer Group

Light Industrial - Material Handler

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

Side-loader forklifts * Pallet jacks * Other material handling equipment * Operate equipment safely in narrow aisles and cold storage environments. Compliance & Safety * Follow all Standard Operating ...

Caresoft Inc.

Material Handler

San Diego, CA · On-site

$22/hr

These functions include operating in a cGMP environment and adhering to strong inventory management ... up and side-loader forklifts, pallet jacks, and related material handling equipment in narrow ...

ConGlobal

Terminal Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$24.58 - $26.71/hr

Use top loaders, side loaders, and/or cranes to stack, move, and organize containers. * Perform ... Previous experience operating heavy equipment or machinery in a logistics or industrial environment ...

ConGlobal

Terminal Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$26.71/hr

Use top loaders, side loaders, and/or cranes to stack, move, and organize containers. * Perform ... Previous experience operating heavy equipment or machinery in a logistics or industrial environment ...

Samuel Son & Co.

Material Handler

Arcadia, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $22.46/hr

Previous experience operating Fork Lift / Side Loader / Overhead Crane experience a plus - Must pass evaluation before working independently. * Experience using computers. * Experience with cutting ...

New

Caglia Environmental

Commercial Roll Off Driver

Fresno, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Provides weekly, bi-weekly and/or monthly collection services while safely operating company equipment.May operate roll-off, front loader, side loader, or tractor trailer.Communicates professionally ...

REMPREX, LLC

Equipment Operator

Richmond, CA · On-site

$17.77 - $27.66/hr

What You'll Do As an Equipment Operator at REMPREX, you will facilitate workload requirements in an ... Operate cranes, side loaders, reach stackers, and hostlers to unload and load containers as well as ...

New

Caresoft Inc.

Material Handler

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

These functions include operating in a cGMP environment and adhering to strong inventory management ... up and side-loader forklifts, pallet jacks, and related material handling equipment in narrow ...

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Side Loader Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do side loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for side 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 is a side loader operator?

A Side Loader Operator is a skilled professional responsible for operating a side loader vehicle, which is a type of forklift designed to lift and transport long or bulky loads such as timber, steel, or pipes from the side. These operators are commonly employed in warehouses, construction sites, and industrial settings. Their main duties include safely maneuvering the side loader, loading and unloading materials, and ensuring that goods are transported efficiently and securely. Side Loader Operators must be familiar with safety regulations and equipment maintenance to prevent accidents and ensure smooth operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a side loader operator?

To thrive as a Side Loader Operator, you need strong spatial awareness, forklift operation skills, and typically a valid forklift or heavy machinery license. Familiarity with side loader equipment, warehouse management systems, and adherence to safety protocols are essential. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication help operators stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe handling of materials and contribute to smooth warehouse or logistics operations.

What are the most common challenges faced by side loader operators and how can they overcome them?

Side Loader Operators often face challenges such as maneuvering large vehicles in tight or congested spaces, handling heavy or awkward loads, and maintaining safety standards. To overcome these challenges, operators must remain vigilant, undergo regular safety training, and stay updated on equipment maintenance. Effective communication with ground staff and other team members is also crucial to ensure smooth operations and prevent accidents. Additionally, operators should be proactive in reporting equipment issues and seeking guidance when handling unusual loads.

How much does a side loader operator make?

The average salary for a side loader operator in Texas is around $40,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in warehouse or logistics environments may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What are popular job titles related to Side Loader Operator jobs in California?

For Side Loader Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Side Loader Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Side Loader Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Side Loader Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Side Loader Operator job openings:

Side Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Side Loader Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% 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.

2nd Shift Machine Operator

Banner Industries

Paramount, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

The Machine Operator is responsible for the setup, calibration, and operation of the waterjet and/or CNC machine. May also inspect products against customer specifications and assist with other warehouse responsibilities.

A. M. Castle & Co. has over 135 years of experience as a leader in the metals service center industry. We provide exceptional benefits including but not limited to medical, dental, vision, 401K match, disability benefits and tuition reimbursement.

Training will start with the hours of 7am - 3:30pm. Once training is complete, hours will move to 2:30pm - 10pm
Compensation: $23 - $26/hr + incentive eligible

 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES/ACCOUNTABILITIES:

 

Essential Primary Responsibilities:

  • Sets up and operates cutting machine(s) in accordance with established procedures and guidelines.
  • May perform programming and/or editing on assigned machine(s). 
  • Performs preventative maintenance on assigned machine(s) and corresponding equipment.
  • May perform other responsibilities in the warehouse as requested.
  • Performs a variety of material movement tasks for order filling, receiving, and loading.
  • Safely uses assigned power equipment to move material and meet order requirements (crown truck, Raymond side-loader, overhead crane, forklift).
  • Follows customer requirements to select, fill and package orders.

 

Physical Demands/Working Conditions:

  • Stooping, standing, and manual dexterity
  • Light lifting (occasional 25 lbs or less)
  • Heavy lifting (frequent 25 lbs+)
  • Assigned safety equipment must be worn at all times (hard hat, safety shoes with metatarsal, safety glasses with side shields, gloves, arm guards)
  • Frequent exposure to mechanical moving parts

 

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Required Qualifications:

  • Three years of warehouse experience
  • Capable of being certified in assigned equipment (waterjet machine, forklift, Raymond side-loader, overhead crane, etc.) 
  • Advanced measurement competency
  • Knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within a warehouse environment
  • Strong work ethic

The ability to work scheduled overtime and emergency/mandatory overtime as needed

Preferred Qualifications:

  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • One year of work experience
  • One year of equipment experience
  • PC literacy
  • Certified in assigned equipment (forklift, Raymond side-loader, overhead crane, etc.)

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP

Company Overview: Founded in 1890, A. M. Castle & Co. is a global distributor of specialty metal and plastic products and supply chain services, principally serving the producer durable equipment, oil and gas, commercial aircraft, heavy equipment, industrial goods, construction equipment, retail, marine and automotive sectors of the global economy. Its customer base includes many Fortune 500 companies as well as thousands of medium and smaller-sized firms spread across a variety of industries. Within its metals business, it specializes in the distribution of alloy and stainless steels; nickel alloys; aluminum and carbon. Together, Castle operates service centers located throughout North America, Europe and Asia.