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Telehandler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator I-22k Capacity Taylor

Tracy, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $21.50/hr

SECONDARY RESPONSIBILITIES: • May occasionally operate other industrial equipment: telehandler forklifts, wheel loaders, water trucks, skip loaders/graders, and/or bobcats. • Complete and ...

Electrician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20 - $45/hr

Can operate excavators, power trenchers, vibrating plates and has the corresponding certificates including the forklift and telehandler certificates; Journeyman * Able to do all the above plus:

Electrician

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$20 - $45/hr

Can operate excavators, power trenchers, vibrating plates and has the corresponding certificates including the forklift and telehandler certificates; Journeyman * Able to do all the above plus:

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Telehandler information

See California salary details

$11

$19

$26

How much do telehandler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for telehandler in California is $19.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.71 and $21.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a license required for telehandler jobs?

Yes, a license or certification is typically required to operate a telehandler, especially for commercial or industrial use. Employers often prefer candidates with a valid OSHA or equivalent certification, and some regions mandate specific licensing to ensure safe operation. Having proper training and certification helps ensure compliance with safety regulations and industry standards.

What is the highest paying forklift job?

The highest paying forklift jobs are often those requiring specialized skills, such as operating heavy-duty or industrial forklifts, working in hazardous environments, or holding supervisory or managerial roles. Certifications like OSHA forklift certification and experience in construction or warehouse management can also lead to higher wages. Salaries vary by industry and location but can reach above average for skilled or advanced forklift operators.

What are some common challenges faced by Telehandlers on construction sites?

Telehandlers often work in busy, dynamic environments where they must navigate tight spaces, uneven terrain, and changing site conditions, which can be challenging. Operators need to remain vigilant about safety, adapting to weather, adjusting for load weight, and coordinating closely with other team members to avoid accidents or delays. Effective communication with site supervisors and other trades is essential to ensure materials are delivered to the right locations without disrupting workflow. With experience, telehandlers become adept at problem-solving and anticipating site needs, helping to keep projects running smoothly and efficiently.

What is the average salary for a telehandler job?

The average salary for a telehandler operator typically ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with OSHA safety training and experience in construction or industrial settings may earn higher wages. Overtime and union membership can also influence overall compensation.

What is a Telehandler job?

A Telehandler job involves operating a telescopic handler, a type of hydraulic lifting machine used in construction, agriculture, and warehousing. Telehandlers are used to lift, move, and place materials at height or in hard-to-reach areas. Operators must have skills in maneuvering heavy equipment safely and efficiently. Duties may include transporting loads, maintaining the equipment, and following safety regulations. Certification or training may be required depending on the job and location.

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

To excel as a Telehandler, you should have experience operating heavy machinery, a solid understanding of safety procedures, and typically possess a valid telehandler operator certification or relevant heavy equipment license. Familiarity with telehandler controls, load charts, and basic maintenance tools is highly valued, as well as knowledge of site-specific safety systems. Reliability, attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork make individuals stand out in this position. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient material handling and smooth collaboration on construction or industrial sites.

How much does a telehandler make?

The average salary for a telehandler operator in the United States ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with OSHA or industry-specific certifications tend to earn higher wages, especially in construction and industrial environments where equipment operation is critical.
What are the most commonly searched types of Telehandler jobs in California? The most popular types of Telehandler jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Telehandler job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,784 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Forklift Operator I-22k Capacity Taylor

Grandir UK

Tracy, CA • On-site

$18.25 - $21.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Build Your Future at NWPX
At NWPX Infrastructure, we manufacture welded steel pipe and precast products that form the backbone of America's water infrastructure. It's work you can be proud of-and an opportunity to advance your career with a company committed to your professional growth and well-being.
Our brands-Northwest Pipe Company, NWPX Park, and NWPX Geneva-set the standard for safety, quality, innovation, and performance. Guided by our core values of Accountability, Commitment, and Teamwork, our people work collaboratively to deliver reliable products and trusted service to our customers-while building stable, rewarding careers along the way.
For over 50 years, NWPX has been a leader in reliable water infrastructure solutions, and our people are the foundation of our success. Build your future with us and be part of a legacy grounded in water.
WHAT NWPX OFFERS YOU:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D Insurance
  • Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Sick Time
  • 401k Retirement Savings Plan with Employer Match
  • On-Demand Pay (Access Your Earned Wages Before Payday)
  • Bonus Potential
  • Up to $5,000 per year Tuition Reimbursement
  • Safety Footwear and Eyewear Voucher (Day 1 of Employment)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Opportunities for Career Advancement
  • Values-Driven Culture Committed to Equal Opportunities and Safety

SUMMARY OF JOB PURPOSE:
Under ongoing supervision, a successful forklift operator will safely operate and manage industrial vehicles to load, unload and move materials within the facility. The equipment will be operated indoors and outdoors throughout a given workday. Must have experience operating 22 ton + capacity heavy industrial forklifts or other heavy equipment.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Daily operation of heavy-duty forklifts with an emphasis of safety and efficiency.
• Transport pipe products, coils and raw material to different production workstations.
• Load and unload pipe or other materials from and into railroad cars or trucks.
• Identify and report any unsafe working conditions or equipment.
• Perform routing pre-and-post inspections of equipment.
• Inspect industrial equipment to determine the need for repairs and/or maintenance.
• Follows all OSHA safety requirements, work rules and instructions, ISO procedures, job safety analysis (JSAs) and company policies to promote a safe culture.
• Regular, reliable, and predictable attendance is necessary in order to perform the essential functions of this position.
SECONDARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• May occasionally operate other industrial equipment: telehandler forklifts, wheel loaders, water trucks, skip loaders/graders, and/or bobcats.
• Complete and maintain all required paperwork.
• Participates in all inventories, safety meetings and ISO audits.
• Maintain housekeeping within all production, storage and waste areas.
• Performs other duties assigned by the lead or department supervisor.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a forklift certification.
• Ability to safely and efficiently operate large industrial forklifts, and skip loaders/graders equipment.
• Ability to safely operate and control miscellaneous industrial equipment.
• Ability to effectively communicate on the radio and in person, as well as work well within a team.
• Ability to read preventive maintenance sheets and instruction manuals.
• Ability to read pipe numbers and other markings -including fractions- and to use a tape measure.
WORK HOURS/SHIFT:
• Work hours may vary or change based on operational needs.
• Must be able to work overtime -including weekends- as required
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience operating large industrial equipment preferred.
• One to two years' experience in a heavy manufacturing environment preferred.
FORKLIFT OPERATOR I - this level of Operator requires an ongoing forklift certification, and they typically have short-term or limited experience. The candidate is responsible for operating industrial vehicles in order to load, unload and move materials within the facility. Individuals in this position operate, work with and are around large industrial equipment. Duties are routinely carried out under close supervision; however, close supervision is not always available for routine and repetitive tasks, and these tasks can be carried on without difficulty once they are learned. As work experience is gained, employee may be assigned to more advanced tasks that include more responsibility.
FORKLIFT OPERATOR II - this level of Operator is responsible for performing duties described for a Forklift Operator I. The qualifications and experience of this level of operator must be at an intermediate level. Duties are carried out under limited to close supervision. As additional work experience is gained, the employee may be assigned to tasks that are more difficult in nature and require more responsibility.
FORKLIFT OPERATOR III - this level of Operator is responsible for performing duties described for a Forklift Operator II. This level of operator requires advanced training, qualifications and experience. Duties are routinely carried out under minimal supervision. Employees in this position may be responsible for providing on-the-job training (OJT) to new employees.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.
• The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; us hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
• The employee is occasionally required to sit, climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.
• The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
Physical Activity
Over 2/3 of the time:
• Climbing: Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like, using feet and legs and/or hands and arms. Body agility is emphasized. (This factor is important if the amount and kind of climbing required exceeds that required for ordinary locomotion.)
• Reaching: Grabbing things from a distance above or from the side.
• Standing: Remaining upright in a stationary position, particularly for sustained periods.
• Pulling: Using upper extremities to exert force in order to draw, drag, haul or tug objects in a sustained motion.
• Fingering: Picking, pinching, typing or otherwise working, primarily with fingers rather than with whole hand or arm as in handling to operate control on the forklift.
• Talking: Expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; those activities where detailed or important spoken instructions must be conveyed to other workers accurately, loudly, or quickly,
• Communicating: Expressing or exchanging ideas and information accurately in written or diagram form.
• Hearing: Perceiving the nature of sounds at normal speaking levels with or without correction, and having the ability to receive detailed information through oral communication, and making fire discriminations in sounds.
• Repetitive motions: Making substantial movements (motions) of the wrists hands, and/or fingers such as operate controls on the forklift.
Up to 2/3 of the time:
• Stooping: Positions self to pick up tools and materials factor is important if it occurs to a considerable degree and requires the full use of the lower extremities and back muscles.
• Walking: Moving about to accomplish tasks, particularly for long distances or moving from one work site to another.
• Lifting: Raising objects from a lower to a higher position or moving objects horizontally from position to position. (This factor is important if it occurs to a considerable degree and requires the substantial use of the upper extremities and back muscles.
• Grasping: Applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palm to operate controls on forklift jack pipe round Hold boards apply banding material.
Less than 1/3 of the time:
• Balancing: Maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling when walking, standing or coughing on narrow, slippery or erratically moving surfaces. (This factor is important if the amount and kind of balancing the amounts and kind of balancing exceeds that needed for ordinary locomotion and maintenance of body equilibrium.
• Kneeling/Crouching: Position self to stull pipe when assigned
• Crawling: Moving to stull pipe when assigned
• Standing: Remaining upright in a stationary position, particularly for sustained periods.
• Pushing: Using upper extremities to press against something with steady force in order to thrust forward downward or outward.
• Feeling: Perceiving attributes of objects such as size shape temperature or texture by touching with skin particularly that of fingertips.
Physical Requirements:
• Heavy work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects
Visual Acuity
• The worker is required to have visual acuity to operate motor vehicles or heavy equipment, with or without vision aid.
Vision Requirements:
Over 2/3 of time the worker is required to have:
• The worker is required to have close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less)
• The worker is required to have distance vision (clear vision at 20 feet or more)
• The worker is required to have color vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors)
• The worker is required to have peripheral vision (ability to observe an area that can be seen up and down or to the left and right while eyes are fixed on given point)
• The worker is required to have depth perception (three dimensional vision, ability to judge distances and spatial relationships)
• The worker is required to have the ability to adjust visual focus (ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus).
Weather Conditions
Up to 2/3 of the time:
• The worker is subject to inside environmental conditions: Protection form weather conditions but not necessarily from temperature changes.
• The worker is subject to outside environmental conditions: No effective protection from weather.
Less than 1/3 of the time:
• The worker is subject to vibration: Exposure to oscillating movements of the extremities or whole body.
• The worker is subject to oils: There is air and/or skin exposure to oils and other cutting fluids.
• The worker frequently is in close quarters, crawl spaces, shafts, man holes small enclosed rooms, small sewage and water line pipes, and other areas which could cause claustrophobia.
Noise Levels
Over 2/3 of the time:
• Loud noise (examples: metal can be manufacturing department large earth-moving equipment)
• Very loud noise (example: jack hammer work, front row at rock concert)
Supervision Received:
• Supervision: A Laborer is expected to perform a variety of routine work within established policies and produces, and receives detailed instructions on new projects and assignments.
Personal Protective Equipment is required when in the Plant, Yard or Construction Areas:
• Hard hat
• Safety glasses
• Steel-toed boots
• Hearing protection
• Reflective vest
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Except where prohibited by state law, offers of employment may be contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, drug test, and/or physical examination, as determined by the essential functions and physical requirements of the position.
NWPX Infrastructure is committed to equal employment opportunity. Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
NWPX Infrastructure reserves the right to close the position, with or without notice, if a qualified candidate is identified prior to the close date.