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Telehandler Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 (operator certification a plus). 10.Equipment Oversight: Perform or oversee equipment inspections ...

Greens Operations Inc

PROJECT FOREMAN

Irvine, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $30/hr

Experience with operating a telehandler forklift * Reliable and ability to take direction for superintendent Preferred Qualifications, but not essential: * Fluent in Spanish * Drywall experience

Crux Subsurface, Inc.

Micropile Driller

San Diego, CA

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Perform routine maintenance on drilling equipment and ensure equipment is operated only by qualifies personnel. * Operate ancillary equipment such as telehandler, Morooka carrier, mini excavator ...

All JobsTelehandler Operator JobsTelehandler Operator Jobs in California

Telehandler Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$23

$33

How much do telehandler operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for telehandler operator in California is $23.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What industries employ telehandler operators?

Telehandler operators are employed across various industries such as construction, agriculture, warehousing, manufacturing, and logistics. They operate telescopic forklifts to move heavy materials, often requiring certification and safety training, in environments that involve building, farming, or material handling activities.

How much does a telehandler operator make?

A telehandler operator typically earns between $18 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $37,000 to $62,000. Wages depend on experience, certifications, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

What is a telehandler operator?

A Telehandler Operator is responsible for operating a telehandler, a versatile lifting machine used in construction, agriculture, and warehousing. They transport heavy materials, stack loads, and maneuver in tight spaces using various attachments like forks, buckets, or lifting jibs. Operators must follow safety regulations, perform equipment inspections, and ensure smooth workflow on-site. This role requires skill, precision, and often certification or specialized training.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a telehandler operator?

As a Telehandler Operator, your daily responsibilities include operating the telehandler to move materials around construction or industrial sites, inspecting and maintaining the equipment, and following strict safety procedures. You will work closely with supervisors, site managers, and other crew members to ensure timely delivery of materials to various locations on the job site. Tasks often involve reading load charts, securing loads properly, and maneuvering in tight or crowded spaces. Keeping clear communications with your team is crucial for safety and workflow. Expect to adapt to changing site conditions and priorities as projects progress.

How much does a telehandler operator make an hour?

A telehandler operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized training may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or construction environments requiring certification and safety knowledge.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the telehandler operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Telehandler Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, precision in handling heavy machinery, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with an operator’s certification. Familiarity with telehandler equipment, load charts, safety protocols, and radio communication systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to follow instructions and communicate effectively with team members make operators stand out. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safety, efficiency, and effective collaboration on busy work sites.

What are popular job titles related to Telehandler Operator jobs in California? For Telehandler Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Telehandler Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Telehandler Operator jobs in California are:
Telehandler Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Telehandler Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,684 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Reachlift | Telehandler Operator Wood Framing

Paragon Framing, Inc.

Temecula, CA • On-site

$21.50 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

General duties include, but are not limited to:
General maintenance and inspection of associated operating equipment.
Documenting and maintaining inventory, ensuring the production areas' organization and cleanliness, loading and unloading materials.
Successful applicants have knowledge of commonly used materials, types and utilization.
Must be OSHA certified.
Must be current with OSHA safety and general construction procedures, methods and standards.
Project locations vary throughout southern ca and you typically will be driving to different locations daily or weekly.
1 Years Experience Required

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