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Side Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Castle Metals

1st Shift Machine Operator

Paramount, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Description Position at Banner Industries This position is responsible for operating a variety of ... Capable of being certified in assigned equipment (forklift, Raymond side-loader, overhead crane ...

Samuel

Material Handler - C

Hayward, CA

$22.36 - $24.84/hr

Previous experience operating material handling equipment including forklift. Able to operate a side loader/crane a plus - Must pass evaluation before working independently. PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Samuel Son & Co.

Material Handler - C

Hayward, CA

$22.36 - $24.84/hr

Previous experience operating material handling equipment including forklift. Able to operate a side loader/crane a plus - Must pass evaluation before working independently. PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment 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 ...

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 ...

Pacer Group

Material Handler

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

Side-loader forklifts * Pallet jacks * Other material handling equipment * Work safely in narrow aisles, warehouse environments, and cold storage facilities. * Follow all Standard Operating ...

Remprex

Ramp Operator

Richmond, CA

$26.42/hr

What You'll Do As a Ramp 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 ...

REMPREX, LLC

Ramp Operator

Richmond, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

What You'll Do As a Ramp 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 ...

reliance

Warehouse Material Handler 1

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$21 - $36/hr

Operates Forklifts, Side Loaders, and Order pickers for the purpose of loading and unloading racks ... Knowledge of operating industrial equipment, Band Saws preferred. * Ability to communicate well ...

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All JobsSide Loader Operator JobsSide Loader Operator Jobs in California

Side Loader Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do side loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Side loader operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. Some highly experienced or business-owning professionals in certain industries can reach this level, but it is uncommon for standard operational roles. Advanced skills, certifications, and extensive experience are often required for top-tier compensation.

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, and why are they important?

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.

Is a loader operator a good job?

A loader operator is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery such as loaders and forklifts, often in construction, warehousing, or logistics environments. The job can offer steady employment, competitive wages, and opportunities for advancement, especially with proper certification and safety training. However, it may involve physical labor, shift work, and adherence to safety protocols.

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.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Side loader operator jobs typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized roles like executive consultants, high-level contractors, or certain medical and legal professionals. Most jobs in this category require extensive experience, certifications, or working in high-demand industries with premium pay structures.

What is the highest paid forklift job?

The highest paid forklift jobs typically involve roles such as forklift supervisors, specialized operators (e.g., rough terrain or narrow aisle forklifts), or those working in high-demand industries like construction or manufacturing. These positions often require additional certifications, experience, and sometimes overtime or shift work, which can increase earnings significantly.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,648 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
1st Shift Machine Operator

1st Shift Machine Operator

Castle Metals

Paramount, CA • On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Description
Position at Banner Industries
This position is responsible for operating a variety of machines in a production environment. Operates assigned power equipment to process orders which meet customer requirements.
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.
Hours: 7:00am - 3:30pm
Compensation range: $23 - $26/hr + bonus
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES/ACCOUNTABILITIES:
Essential Primary Responsibilities:
  • Sets up and operates assigned machine(s) that produce products in accordance with established procedures and guidelines.
  • Safely adjusts and utilizes machine according to exact customer order requirements.
  • Notices and reports defects and/or excessive wear and tear of equipment; Performs set-up and preventative maintenance of equipment.
  • Maintains a clean and safe work environment.
  • May assists with Warehouse Operator responsibilities as needed:

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:
  • Capable of being certified in assigned equipment (forklift, Raymond side-loader, overhead crane, etc.)
  • Basic measurement competency
  • Basic math 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.

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