ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Side Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Arconic

Material Handler

Visalia, CA · On-site

$21.83/hr

Ability to obtain a mobile equipment license, forklift certification, side-loader certification ... operators to move load to destination. * Counts, weighs, and records number of units of materials ...

Kawneer Company, Inc.

Material Handler

Visalia, CA · On-site

$21.83/hr

Ability to obtain a mobile equipment license, forklift certification, side-loader certification ... operators to move load to destination. * Counts, weighs, and records number of units of materials ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 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 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.
Material Handler

Material Handler

Arconic

Visalia, CA • On-site

$21.83/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Arconic rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

146th of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

Arconic is currently in search of Material Handler to join our Kawneer Team in Visalia.   $21.83/hour is base pay for this position.
 
At Arconic, we are looking for people who share our values of integrity, inclusion, and diversity, and who demonstrate agility, results commitment, and the capability to grow themselves and others. In return, we offer the opportunity to Grow Together with ongoing opportunities for professional growth provided by a constantly changing environment, working alongside employees who value the people they work with just as much as the work they do.  
 
The Material Handler is responsible to Loads, unloads, and moves materials within or near plant, yard, or work site by performing the following essential duties.
 
Arconic Corporation is a leading provider of aluminum sheet, plate and extrusions, as well as innovative architectural products, that advance the automotive, aerospace, commercial transportation, industrial and building and construction markets. Building on more than a century of innovation, Arconic helps to transform the way we fly, drive, and build. 
We live our core values and commit to delivering sustainable value to our customers, our employees, our communities and our stakeholders. 
At Arconic, we: 
Act With Integrity : We lead with respect, honesty, transparency and accountability. 
Safeguard our Future : We protect and improve the health and safety of our employees, communities and environment. 
Grow Stronger Together : We cultivate an inclusive and diverse culture that advocates for equity. 
Earn Customer Loyalty : We build customer partnerships through best-in-class products and service. 
Drive Operational Excellence : We pursue continuous improvement through innovation, agility, people development and collaboration. 
Create Value : We achieve success by generating and growing value for our stakeholders. 
United States EEO Statement: Arconic Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. We take action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.
Visalia's production facility is located just 50 minutes South of Fresno.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required.
  • One to six months related work experience is preferred.
  • Ability to read, analyzes, and interprets documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondents.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with other employees and supervisors.  
  • Ability to count, to add, to subtract and to multiply simple numbers.
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.  
  • Ability to deal with and respond to minor problems in standard work situations.
  • Ability to obtain a mobile equipment license, forklift certification, side-loader certification, electric pallet jack certification and overhead crane certification are preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

  • Able to stand for long periods of time.
  • Able to repetitively lift up to 40 pounds or 1/3 of your body weight.
  • Able to work 12 hour days.
  • Able to wear required PPE.
  • Able to bend and twist repetitively.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES included but not limited to the following.

  • Adhere to all Kawneer rules and regulations.
  • Inspects extrusions for scratches, dents and quality.
  • Able to read work order and follow oral instructions to ascertain materials or containers to be moved.
  • Knowledge and ability to follow the MDR Process.
  • Able to identify material by part number and product finish.
  • Loads and unloads materials onto or from pallets, trays, racks, and shelves by hand.
  • Loads materials onto material racks and carts installs strapping, bracing, or padding to prevent shifting or damage in transit.
  • Conveys materials from storage or work sites to designated areas.
  • Secures lifting attachments to materials and conveys load to destination or signals crane or hoisting operators to move load to destination.
  • Counts, weighs, and records number of units of materials moved or handled on daily production sheet.
  • Attaches identifying tags or labels to materials or marks information on cases, bales, or other containers.
  • Stacks or assembles materials into bundles and bands bundles together.
  • Lifts heavy objects by hand, and cleans work area, machines, and equipment.
  • Assembles crates to contain products when required.
  • Stores materials such as metals, tools, or chemicals in designated areas.
  • backup in other area and departments when needed. 

What Arconic employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply