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Side Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Loader

Lancaster, NY ยท On-site

$23.59/hr

Operating a forklift or side loader to move material as needed * All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice Requirements

Loader

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$31.31/hr

Operating a forklift or side loader to move material as needed * All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice Requirements

Loader

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$30.18/hr

Operating a forklift or side loader to move material as needed * All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice Requirements

Showing results 21-40

Side Loader information

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$11

$19

$28

How much do side loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 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 is a side loader?

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 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 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

What cities are hiring for Side Loader jobs?

Cities with the most Side Loader job openings:

What states have the most Side Loader jobs?

States with the most job openings for Side Loader jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Side Loader jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Side Loader job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 12% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,188 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Loader

Lancaster, NY โ€ข On-site

$23.59/hr

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description


Summary

Welcome to Ryerson, where exceptional career opportunities await. As a leading provider of industrial metal products and services since 1842, we are committed to excellence and best-in-class customer service. Join our team and be a part of a legacy of excellence, where your contributions will be valued, and your development supported. Ryerson offers a dynamic, quality-focused, environment, ideal for advancing your career and making your mark in the metals industry.

As a Loader you are responsible for pulling and staging feed stock for production orders and finishing and inspecting product to meet customer expectations.

Roles and Responsibilities
  • Final packaging of material per customer specification
  • Staging of material for outbound shipping
  • Maximum productivity during job task
  • Work order confirmation on computer
  • Operating an overhead crane to move material as needed
  • Operating a forklift or side loader to move material as needed
  • All other duties as assigned or duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

Requirements
  • Successfully pass a skills-based assessment - evaluates your reading, math, inspections & measurement, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills
  • 1+ year of metals warehouse experience with knowledge of structural steel preferred
  • Forklift/side-loader experience
  • Overhead crane experience
  • Must be able to safely operate cranes with minimal supervision
  • Must be able to accurately use standard measuring tools (tape measure, micrometer, and caliper) as well as pneumatic hand tools
  • Must be willing to work overtime when needed
  • Successful candidates will be enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program as part of their onboarding

Salary: $23.59 hourly. A starting salary higher than $23.59 hourly is based on a level of experience and education that significantly exceeds the minimum requirements and is commensurate with the compensation scale.

#IND456

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, and pregnancy), age, national origin, religion, disability or genetic information, marital status, status as a veteran, or any other federal, state or local protected class or artificial barrier.