ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Telehandler Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AQUA-FLO SUPPLY A CORP

Class B Driver

Goleta, CA · On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

The Class B CDL Driver is primarily based within our hardscape branch, supporting daily delivery ... Forklift certification or demonstrated experience operating a telehandler or skid steer. * Ability ...

AQUA-FLO SUPPLY A Corp.

Class B Driver

Goleta, CA · On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

The Class B CDL Driver is primarily based within our hardscape branch, supporting daily delivery ... Forklift certification or demonstrated experience operating a telehandler or skid steer. * Ability ...

AQUA-FLO SUPPLY A CORP

Class B Driver

Goleta, CA

$50K - $75K/yr

The Class B CDL Driver is primarily based within our hardscape branch, supporting daily delivery ... Forklift certification or demonstrated experience operating a telehandler or skid steer. * Ability ...

Crux Subsurface, Inc.

Micropile Driller

San Diego, CA

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Operate ancillary equipment such as telehandler, Morooka carrier, mini excavator, grout batch plant ... Class A CDL with tanker endorsement preferred. * OSHA-10 certification. * First Aid/CPR ...

ALBD Electric & Cable

Underground Foreman

La Habra, CA · On-site

$33 - $40/hr

Operate equipment as needed, including backhoe, mini excavator, skid steer, loader, and telehandler ... Valid driver's license with a clean driving record. Ability to work in various weather conditions ...

Bilbro Construction Company Inc.

SSHO

Sacramento, CA

$115K - $140K/yr

... and telehandler operations, Crane and rigging activities. * Enforce proper housekeeping, PPE ... Valid driver's license. * Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work in active construction environments.

Bilbro Construction Company Inc.

SSHO

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

... and telehandler operations, Crane and rigging activities. * Enforce proper housekeeping, PPE ... Valid driver's license. * Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work in active construction environments.

Bilbro Construction

Be Seen First

Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) - Federal Construction

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Fall protection systems, Scaffold operations, Roofing operations, Heavy equipment and telehandler ... and drug screening · Valid driver's license · Ability to lift 50 lbs and work in active ...

All JobsTelehandler Driver JobsTelehandler Driver Jobs in California

Telehandler Driver information

See California salary details

$9

$20

$48

How much do telehandler driver jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for telehandler driver in California is $20.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Telehandler Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Telehandler Driver, you need a valid telehandler or forklift license, strong spatial awareness, and a good understanding of safety regulations. Familiarity with telehandler controls, load charts, and site-specific safety systems is crucial, as is experience with common construction equipment. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and reliability are vital soft skills for coordinating with site teams and ensuring safe operations. These skills and qualifications are essential for preventing accidents, maximizing efficiency, and maintaining a safe work environment.

What are some common challenges Telehandler Drivers face on construction sites, and how can they be managed?

Telehandler Drivers often encounter challenges such as maneuvering large machinery in tight or congested areas, working in varying weather conditions, and ensuring loads are lifted safely and efficiently. Effective communication with site supervisors and ground personnel is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure smooth operations. Regular equipment checks and adherence to safety protocols help mitigate risks, while ongoing training can improve both skill and confidence in handling complex site demands.

What are Telehandler Drivers?

Telehandler Drivers are skilled operators responsible for driving and maneuvering telescopic handlers, also known as telehandlers, on construction sites, warehouses, and agricultural settings. Their main duties include lifting, moving, and placing heavy materials at various heights and distances using the extendable boom of the telehandler. They must follow safety protocols, perform daily equipment checks, and sometimes assist with other site tasks. Telehandler Drivers play a crucial role in ensuring efficient material handling and site productivity.

What is the difference between Telehandler Driver vs Forklift Operator?

AspectTelehandler DriverForklift Operator
CertificationsTelehandler certification, OSHA complianceForklift certification, OSHA compliance
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, rough terrainWarehouses, indoor, flat surfaces
Job TasksMoving heavy loads vertically and horizontally, lifting at heightsLoading/unloading, stacking, transporting materials
Industry UsageConstruction, industrial sitesWarehousing, manufacturing

While both roles involve operating lifting equipment, a Telehandler Driver typically works outdoors on construction sites, handling heavy loads at heights, whereas a Forklift Operator mainly works indoors in warehouses, focusing on stacking and transporting goods. Certifications for both are similar, but the work environments and tasks differ significantly.

Telehandler Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Telehandler Driver job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, and 52% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,350 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Underground Equipment Operator

Underground Equipment Operator

ALBD Electric & Cable

La Habra, CA • On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Underground Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment to support underground utility and electrical construction projects. This role performs excavation, trenching, grading, and material handling while working closely with field crews to ensure projects are completed efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with all safety standards. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong equipment skills, jobsite awareness, and a commitment to quality workmanship.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
    1.Equipment Operation: Operate heavy equipment including backhoe, mini excavator, skid steer, front-end loader, and telehandler in a safe and efficient manner (certification required or preferred).
    2.Excavation & Site Work: Perform excavation, trenching, grading, backfilling, and material handling to support underground utility and electrical installations.
    3.Plan Interpretation: Read and interpret site plans, utility locates, and grade stakes to ensure accurate digging and placement.
    4.Utility Awareness & Safety: Safely work around existing underground utilities while maintaining compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety policies.
    5.Crew Support: Assist ground crew with labor tasks as needed, including hand digging, site cleanup, and material staging.
    6.Equipment Inspections: Conduct daily equipment inspections and promptly report maintenance or repair needs.
    7.Jobsite Organization: Maintain clean, organized job sites and ensure tools and equipment are properly stored.
    8.Communication: Communicate effectively with foremen, project managers, and crew members regarding job progress and site conditions.
    9.Material Handling: Load and unload materials using telehandler or loader as required.
    10.Traffic Control & Public Safety: Follow all traffic control plans and jobsite safety procedures when working in active or public areas.
    11.Productivity & Professionalism: Support project schedules by completing assigned tasks efficiently, safely, and professionally.
EDUCATION, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

2+ years of underground construction and heavy equipment operating experience preferred

Proficient in operating backhoe, mini excavator, skid steer, front-end loader, and telehandler (certification required or preferred).

OSHA 30 Certified is plus.

Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

Ability to work in various weather conditions and diverse environments, including confined spaces and heights.

Physical requirements include sitting, standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and the use of hands and arms to operate the equipment.

Must have good vision, strong sense of balance and no fear of heights.

Must be able to lift and move up to 50 lbs.

Knowledge of electrical systems, blueprints, pipe bending, and industry NEC code.

Must possess problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Must be fluent in both the speaking and writing of English.

BENEFITS:

Pay Ranges: $25.00 - $40.00 per hour

Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA, Voluntary Insurance and 401K with 4% match

Holiday Pay

California Sick Pay

ALBD Electric & Cable is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer regardless of race, color, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religious beliefs, marital status, genetic information, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.

Apply