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Tractor Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tanimura and Antle

Tractor Driver

Salinas, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $24.25/hr

Supports vegetable and summer crop operations by operating tractors and other farm machinery to assist with planting, harvesting, and field preparation. Location(s): Salinas, CA Areas of ...

Herc Holdings

Tractor Trailer Driver

Oakland, CA · On-site

$33 - $37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tractor Trailer Drivers perform to a high standard of quality within the branch and in the field and demonstrate mastery of operating standards at the facility, regional, and corporate levels. What ...

AAA Cooper Transportation

Tractor Trailer Mechanic

Downey, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Diagnose mechanical, electrical, or other failures to tractors, trailers, forklifts or other ... Operating Schedule * Days: Monday through Sunday (varies by business needs)Shifts: AM/PM ...

Herc Rentals

Tractor Trailer Driver

Riverside, CA · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tractor Trailer Drivers perform to a high standard of quality within the branch and in the field and demonstrate mastery of operating standards at the facility, regional, and corporate levels. What ...

New

Herc Rentals

Tractor Trailer Driver

Fresno, CA · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tractor Trailer Drivers perform to a high standard of quality within the branch and in the field and demonstrate mastery of operating standards at the facility, regional, and corporate levels. What ...

Herc Rentals

Tractor Trailer Driver

Oakland, CA · On-site

$33 - $37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tractor Trailer Drivers perform to a high standard of quality within the branch and in the field and demonstrate mastery of operating standards at the facility, regional, and corporate levels. What ...

Herc Rentals

Tractor Trailer Driver

Union City, CA · On-site

$31 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tractor Trailer Drivers perform to a high standard of quality within the branch and in the field and demonstrate mastery of operating standards at the facility, regional, and corporate levels. What ...

Herc Rentals

Tractor Trailer Driver

Modesto, CA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tractor Trailer Drivers perform to a high standard of quality within the branch and in the field and demonstrate mastery of operating standards at the facility, regional, and corporate levels. What ...

Herc Rentals

Tractor Trailer Driver

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tractor Trailer Drivers perform to a high standard of quality within the branch and in the field and demonstrate mastery of operating standards at the facility, regional, and corporate levels. What ...

Herc Rentals

Tractor Trailer Driver

Union City, CA · On-site

$33 - $37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tractor Trailer Drivers perform to a high standard of quality within the branch and in the field and demonstrate mastery of operating standards at the facility, regional, and corporate levels. What ...

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.

Switcher

West Sacramento, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary Responsible for operating switcher tractors to move trailers to and from staging areas and loading/unloading docks. Primary Responsibilities * Back trailer to loading docks, open bay ...

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.

Switcher

West Sacramento, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary Responsible for operating switcher tractors to move trailers to and from staging areas and loading/unloading docks. Primary Responsibilities * Back trailer to loading docks, open bay ...

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All JobsTractor Operator JobsTractor Operator Jobs in California

Tractor Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$26

How much do tractor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for tractor operator in California is $20.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Tractor Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectTractor OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) or tractor-specific certificationsHeavy equipment certifications, such as OSHA or industry-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentFarms, construction sites, landscaping projectsConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projects
Job DutiesOperate tractors for planting, hauling, or land managementOperate various heavy machinery like bulldozers, excavators, loaders

Tractor Operators primarily focus on operating tractors in agricultural or land management settings, often requiring specific tractor certifications. Heavy Equipment Operators handle a broader range of machinery in construction or industrial environments, requiring specialized heavy equipment certifications. Both roles involve operating large machinery but differ in the equipment used and work settings.

What are some common challenges tractor operators face in maintaining equipment, and how can these be addressed on the job?

Tractor Operators often encounter challenges such as routine wear and tear, mechanical breakdowns, and the need for timely maintenance to ensure safety and productivity. Addressing these challenges involves conducting regular inspections, promptly reporting issues, and performing basic troubleshooting or minor repairs as needed. Many employers provide on-the-job training for equipment maintenance, and operators frequently collaborate with mechanics or maintenance teams to keep machinery in good working order. Staying proactive about maintenance helps minimize downtime and keeps operations running smoothly.

What does a tractor operator do?

A Tractor Operator is responsible for operating tractors and related machinery to perform agricultural tasks such as plowing, planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops. They ensure that equipment is maintained in good working condition and follow safety protocols while working in fields or on farms. Tractor Operators may also attach and operate various implements, monitor equipment performance, and assist with minor repairs as needed.

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

To thrive as a Tractor Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, a valid driver's license (and sometimes a specialized tractor or equipment certification), and experience operating agricultural machinery. Familiarity with GPS guidance systems, maintenance tools, and safety equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and good communication skills are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient fieldwork, prevent equipment breakdowns, and support effective teamwork on agricultural sites.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Tractor Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Tractor Operator job openings:

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

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

Tractor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tractor Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,559 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

MWR Tractor Operator Supervisor

US Department of the Navy

Coronado, CA

$26.12/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

This position is assigned to the Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) Fleet Readiness; Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC); Sea 'N Air Golf Course, Naval Base Coronado. Incumbent supervises workers involved in operating farm-type tractors and maintaining the grounds and turf of the golf course groundsQualifications:
  • Three years of experience relating to a golf course maintenance operation desired.
  • Two years of experience operating tractors and other related heavy-duty equipment preferred.
  • Knowledge of proper care and maintenance of grasses and golf course turf.
  • Skill in maneuvering driver-operated machinery in small places, tight, confined spaces in a small turning radius and on various grades.
  • Skill needed to operate both the tractor and equipment and ability to manipulate both the tractor and the equipment controls at the same time.
  • Ability to make multiple connections between tractor and attached or towed equipment.
  • Must be able to follow oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to maintain reports and records.
  • Ability to communicate and deal effectively with others.
Education:This position is not in a positive education series.Employment Type: OTHER

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National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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