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Side Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City Of Winter Garden

Solid Waste Worker III

Winter Garden, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Description WORK OBJECTIVE This is skilled and manual labor in the operation of a Commercial Front End, Rear Load, or Side Load vehicle collecting garbage and related refuse, and in transporting them ...

ConGlobal

Depot Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY

$22.44 - $23.51/hr

Using a top-lift or side loader, you'll help minimize driver wait times and keep yard operations running smoothly. This position plays a key role in ensuring proper container and chassis placement ...

CHL Systems, Inc.

Material Handler

Souderton, PA

$17 - $20.50/hr

Load and unload materials using forklifts, side loaders, overhead cranes, and other material handling equipment * Assist with receiving, stocking, and issuing materials * Ensure materials are ...

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How much do side loader jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for side loader 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, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Side Loader operator, you need a valid forklift or heavy machinery license, strong spatial awareness, and experience with loading and unloading goods. Familiarity with side loader machinery, load restraint systems, and warehouse management software is typically required. Attention to detail, good communication, and reliability are critical soft skills for ensuring safety and efficiency. These skills and qualities are vital for minimizing workplace accidents and maintaining smooth logistics operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Side Loader operators and how can they be managed?

Side Loader operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight spaces, handling awkwardly shaped or oversized loads, and working in various weather conditions. To manage these challenges, operators need strong spatial awareness, adherence to safety protocols, and effective communication with ground staff and team members. Regular equipment maintenance and ongoing training are also essential to ensure both safety and efficiency while operating the Side Loader.

What are side loaders?

Side loaders are specialized vehicles or machines designed to lift and transport loads from the side rather than the front or rear. In logistics and waste management, a side loader truck is often used to collect and transport waste bins, allowing for efficient loading without the need for manual lifting. In warehouses, a side loader forklift is used to handle long or bulky items like timber or pipes, enabling operators to move goods in narrow aisles. These machines improve safety and efficiency in various industries by allowing for easier handling of specific materials.

What is the difference between Side Loader vs Forklift Operator?

AspectSide LoaderForklift Operator
Required CertificationsForklift certification, specialized training for side loadersForklift certification, general warehouse training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor and indoor loading docks, narrow aislesIndoor warehouses, storage facilities
Industry UsageLogistics, shipping, and receivingWarehousing, manufacturing, distribution

Both Side Loaders and Forklift Operators require forklift certification and work in warehouse or logistics environments. However, Side Loaders are specialized for handling long or bulky loads in tight spaces, often outdoors, while Forklift Operators typically work indoors managing palletized goods. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and industry needs.

More about Side Loader jobs
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Side Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Side Loader job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, and 16% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $41,188 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator II (Recycling Collection)

City of Lubbock

Lubbock, TX • On-site

$42.60K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Summary Operates and services the heavier types of construction equipment such as rear loader, side loader, grapple truck, roll-off trucks and automated side loader. This position assists the City in collection of Solid Waste for residential and commercial customers. Essential Functions Operate rear loader, side loader, grapple truck, roll-off trucks, and automated side loader.

This position assists the City in collection of Solid Waste for residential and commercial customers. Maintain and service equipment and trucks; Operate pickups and other light equipment when assigned; Perform related duties as directed. Qualifications Completion of a high school diploma or the equivalent with an additional three to five years experience in the operation of motorized construction equipment; or any combination of relevant education, 1 year of progressive experience on any of the required equipment listed on this job description, and experience which provides the following: Solid Waste Disposal: Commercial Driver License (CDL) within one year of hire Prefer HAZWOPER Certification Prefer TCEQ MSW Waste Screening Solid Waste: Texas Commercial Class B or Class A Driver's License Physical Exam Required Knowledge and Abilities Knowledge of: Operation and maintenance of heavy motorized equipment typically used in solid waste collections Operations at Solid Waste Disposal or Transfer Facilities Ability to: Operate heavy equipment skillfully and safely to assist in the collection of Solid Waste; Perform maintenance and service work on trucks and heavy equipment; Make field repairs; Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Maintain equipment in compliance with DOT rules and regulations Physical Requirements Frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds; Occasionally lift and carry up to 75 pounds; Walk and stand during a shift; Climb ladders, scaffolding, stairs, poles and inclined surfaces; Continuously push and pull objects; Frequently flex upper trunk forward at the waist and partially at the knees; Frequently rotate upper trunk to the right or left while sitting or standing; Reach above, at or below shoulder height; Coordinate eye, hand and foot movement in order to operate motorized vehicles and machinery.

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