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Side Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Richmond, CA · On-site

$26.42/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 ...

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 ...

Material Handler - B

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 ...

Material Handler - B

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 ...

Warehouse Material Handler 1

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.50/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 ...

Warehouse Material Handler 1

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/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 ...

Driver Class B - CR&R

Colton, CA · On-site

$25.54 - $31.92/hr

... operating front-load, side-load, and/or roll-off equipment • Strong safety mindset and dependable work ethic • Willingness to work early mornings and Saturdays Pay & Schedule • Hourly pay PAID ...

Driver Class B - CR&R

Colton, CA · On-site

$25.54 - $31.92/hr

... operating front-load, side-load, and/or roll-off equipment • Strong safety mindset and dependable work ethic • Willingness to work early mornings and Saturdays Pay & Schedule • Hourly pay PAID ...

Showing results 21-40

Side Loader Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do side loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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 do side loader operators make?

Side loader operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. In some regions, experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and benefits. Wages may also vary based on union membership and shift differentials.

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 cities in California are hiring for Side Loader Operator jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Side Loader 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, with an average salary of $40,648 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Remprex

Richmond, CA • On-site

$26.42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate cranes, side loaders, reach stackers, and hostlers to load and unload containers and trailers from rail cars.

  • Complete pre- and post-shift equipment inspections and ensure containers and trailers are properly secured prior to departure.

  • Move containers and trailers within the terminal, organize yard inventory, and coordinate workload based on client needs.


Job description

What You'll Do

As an Equipment Operator at REMPREX, you will facilitate workload requirements in an intermodal terminal facility, safely and efficiently, in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities 

  • Work as a member of the team to coordinate the workload based on the client’s needs
  • Attend or facilitate pre-shift job briefings
  • Complete pre- and post-shift cursory inspections of equipment
  • Operate cranes, side loaders, reach stackers, and hostlers to unload and load containers as well as trailers from rail cars, as required 
  • Ensure that all containers and trailers are properly secured prior to departure
  • Move containers and trailers from rail to designated parking stalls in the terminal.
  • Movement to offsite properties, as required 
  • Maintain organization of containers, trailers, and chassis in the yard inventory
  • Understand and obey all regulations and yard safety policies and procedures
  • Strong communication skills to ensure efficient and safe day-to-day operations 

What You'll Need

Required 

  • High School diploma or equivalent intermodal facility experience
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean motor vehicle record (MVR)
  • Efficiency and time-management skills
  • Comfort with working above ground, as required (5-6 feet) 
  • Ability to adjust to changing facility demands as requested by the client’s requirements and commitments due to seasonal variances, disrupted work schedules, and industry needs
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability/Willing to work outside in all weather conditions
  • Ability to work in the presence of loud machinery 
  • Ability to work after-hour callouts, as required

Preferred 

  • Ability to operate or willingness to learn computer systems required for terminal dynamics
  • Commercial driver’s license (CDL) (not required) 
  • Experience running and maneuvering hostler equipment
  • Proficiency in rubber tire gantry cranes, reach stackers, and side loaders 
  • Mechanically inclined 

Location 

  • This role is based out of Richmond, California
  • This role requires employees to be on-site during shifts 

Your assimilation into our culture is very important in having a long and mutually beneficial career at REMPREX.  Our core values are the driving force in our business.  As a potential member of the REMPREX team, you should align with our core values below: 

  • Safety | We commit to actively foster a healthy and injury free environment for our employees, clients and the communities we serve. 
  • Integrity | We make it a priority to do the right thing even when no one is looking, which is why we commit to the highest ethical standard. 
  • Innovation | We challenge conventional thinking to continually improve the products and services we offer. 
  • Transparency | We say what we mean, mean what we say, and do what we say we’ll do. 

    What We Offer

    All benefits mentioned below are based on eligibility and vary based on status, role and location.

    • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision & Prescription Drug Coverage
    • Flexible Spending Accounts.
    • 401(k)
    • Vacation, Sick & Paid Holidays
    • Leaves of Absence
    • Employee Assistance Program
    • Employer-Paid Life & AD&D Insurance
    • Employer-Paid Short & Long-Term Disability
    • Voluntary Accident, Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness and Life Insurance
    • Tuition Reimbursement
    • Employee Assistance Program
    • Employee Referral Program
    • Opportunities to Learn & Grow Your Career
    • Hybrid Work Schedules
    • A Diverse & Inclusive Company Culture that offers genuine teamwork

    All employment offers will be made within the appropriate salary grade, taking into account key factors such as your location, relevant skills, experience, and expertise. Additionally, select positions may be eligible for a discretionary annual cash incentive program, designed to reward both individual and company performance.

    Ready to build your career with an industry leader?

    REMPREX is the one intermodal logistics company that truly does it all and whether you are looking to make an impact on our front line in Operations or ready to contribute your expertise to one of our professional corporate areas like Information Technology, Account & Finance, Human Resources or Client Services, our highly-innovative, rapidly-growing enterprise provides everything you need to build a rewarding career.  If you are a builder at heart, enjoy solving problems, taking the initiative, pitching in where needed, are always up for a challenge, we encourage you to explore your future with REMPREX and apply today! 

    If this role isn't what you're looking for, please consider other open positions.

    REMPREX is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse workforce and do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Additionally, REMPREX participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law.  As part of our pre-employment process, we do require successful completion of a background check and for safety sensitive roles, a drug screen.

    Know your rights:  https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf

    REMPREX participates in eVerify. Click here for information about eVerify.

    We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform crucial job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

    REMPREX is a global company and, in order to facilitate efficient collaboration and communication globally, English proficiency is a requirement for all roles unless stated otherwise in the job posting.

    To all recruitment agencies: REMPREX does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to any REMPREX employee. REMPREX is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

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