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Spray Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

LIMONEIRA

Farming Equipment Operator

Santa Paula, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

SUMMARY: The Farming Equipment Operator will perform maintenance and operate all farm equipment to spray pesticides, mow/disk weeds, shred brush, and perform any farm equipment-related jobs.

VSS International, Inc.

$18 - $30/hr

Safely operate an asphalt distributor (tack) truck to spray asphalt emulsions on roads, parking ... Follow all safety protocols, DOT requirements, and company policies while operating equipment and ...

Cordis

Manufacturing Operator - Second Shift

Irvine, CA · On-site

$24/hr

This position includes formulation of polymers and spray coating formulations, production of a medical device using microscope and operation of various equipment and machines. The Operator I ensures ...

Cordis

Manufacturing Operator - First Shift

Irvine, CA · On-site

$24/hr

This position includes formulation of polymers and spray coating formulations, production of a medical device using microscope and operation of various equipment and machines. The Operator I ensures ...

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All JobsSpray Operator JobsSpray Operator Jobs in California

Spray Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do spray operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for spray operator in California is $19.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a spray operator do?

A Spray Operator is responsible for applying pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, or other chemicals to crops, landscapes, or structures to control pests and promote healthy growth. They operate specialized spraying equipment and must follow safety guidelines to prevent harm to themselves, others, and the environment. Spray Operators may work in agriculture, landscaping, or pest control industries and often maintain records of applications and ensure compliance with regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a spray operator?

To thrive as a Spray Operator, you need knowledge of agricultural chemicals, pest control methods, and safety procedures, often backed by a high school diploma and any required pesticide applicator certifications. Familiarity with spray equipment, GPS technology, and record-keeping systems is typically necessary. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills for ensuring safe and precise applications. These skills and qualities are crucial for protecting crops, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining environmental and personal safety.

What are some common challenges faced by spray operators in maintaining equipment and ensuring safety standards?

Spray Operators often encounter challenges such as keeping equipment in optimal condition, as spray machinery requires regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent clogs and ensure accurate application. Additionally, adhering to strict safety protocols is essential due to exposure to chemicals, so operators must stay updated on proper handling, storage, and use of personal protective equipment. Working in varying weather conditions and managing application timing to minimize drift can also present difficulties, making attention to detail and adaptability important qualities for success in this role.

What is the difference between Spray Operator vs Chemical Technician?

AspectSpray OperatorChemical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires pesticide or applicator licensesAssociate's or bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or related field; may require specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor fields, farms, or industrial sites; involves handling spraying equipmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, or field testing sites; involves analyzing chemicals and formulations
Industry UsageAgriculture, pest control, landscapingChemical manufacturing, environmental testing, research and development

While both roles involve working with chemicals and require safety precautions, Spray Operators primarily focus on applying pesticides or fertilizers in outdoor or industrial settings. Chemical Technicians, on the other hand, are more involved in analyzing chemical samples, developing formulations, and conducting tests. The roles often overlap in industries like agriculture and pest control, but their daily tasks and required qualifications differ significantly.

What is the role of a spray operator?

A spray operator is responsible for applying pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers using specialized equipment to crops, landscapes, or industrial sites. They operate and maintain spraying machinery, follow safety protocols, and often require knowledge of chemical handling and protective gear. The role may involve working outdoors and adhering to environmental and safety regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Spray Operator jobs in California?

For Spray Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Spray Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Spray Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Spray Operator jobs in CA?

For Spray Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Spray Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Spray Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,321 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Spray Technician ($1,500 Signing Bonus)

Terracare Associates

Antioch, CA • On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform fertilization, herbicide, and pest management treatments on turf using approved spray equipment.

  • Calculate product and carrier quantities, and properly mix and apply plant protection and/or fertilizer products.

  • Complete required paperwork related to chemical treatments and ensure safe handling of all chemicals.

Job description

About Terracare Associates
Terracare Associates is part of Monarch Landscape Companies, a leading network of landscape brands across the U.S.
We proudly serve clients in Northern California municipal markets and Colorado public infrastructure markets, and deliver reliable, high-quality landscape services. Our philosophy is simple: We Put the Field First. We invest in our teams, provide industry-leading training, and create opportunities for long-term career growth.
Job Title: Spray Technician
Location: Antioch, CA
A $1,500 signing bonus is available for this position, subject to terms and conditions. QAL is required.
Job Summary
Responsible for the successful prevention and/or treatment of pest and disease presence on commercial landscape.
Qualifications
Experience:
  • Minimum of 2 years of commercial pesticide operator experience
Education:
  • Ability to read, write, and comprehend English
  • Basic understanding of Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook
Licenses / Certifications:
  • Driver’s license issued by California required
  • Pesticide License issued by California required
Skills / Abilities:
  • Strong customer service skills and sense of urgency
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks
  • Organizational skills and flexibility
  • Effective oral and written communication skills
  • Bi-lingual English/Spanish a plus
  • Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
  • Ability to interpret written, oral, diagram, and/or schedule instructions
Essential Duties
  • Perform fertilization, herbicide and pest management treatments on turf using approved spray equipment
  • Calculate product and carrier quantities
  • Properly mix and apply plant protection and/or fertilizer products using various types of application equipment
  • Safe Handling and use of all chemicals
  • Properly complete required paperwork
Physical Demands and Work Conditions:
  • Constantly required to talk, hear, see, sit, stand and walk
  • Must be able to see at close vision, distant vision, peripherally, have depth perception and have the ability to adjust focus
  • Frequent use of hands to manipulate, handle or feel objects, tools or controls
  • Frequently required to reach, bend, twist, stoop, crouch, climb and balance
  • Occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and seldom lift and/or move up to 75 pounds
  • Occasionally works with mechanical objects and outside in all weather conditions
  • Frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles and toxic or caustic chemicals
  • Occasionally exposed to loud noise levels
Total Rewards
At Monarch, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage, and retain top talent. Elements of our Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
Monarch also provides eligible employees with an array of additional benefits, including:
  • The opportunity to enroll in a variety of healthcare benefit programs, including medical, dental, and vision plan options; flexible spending accounts; retirement savings plans; term life/ad amp;d; and a number of supplemental insurances
  • Company Provided Life/AD amp;D
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 6 Paid Holidays
  • 3 Days Paid Bereavement
  • 5 Days Paid Jury Duty
  • Employee Equity Program
  • Paid Time Off Starting at 1 week per year
  • Sick Pay in accordance with applicable state or local ordinance
  • On-Demand Pay Through A Partnership with DailyPay
  • Referral Bonuses Programs
  • Gym Membership and Mobile Carrier Discounts
  • Education Assistance
  • Best-in-Class Learning Management System
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as position, tenure, geographic location, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Please note that the salary information shown below is provided in compliance with state specific laws. Salaries are based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations, and therefore may be different in other locations or operating divisions.
Pay range: $20.00 - $27.00
Terracare Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Terracare Associates is an E-Verify participating Employer
Terracare Associates is an On Demand Daily Pay Employer

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