ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Vehicle Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AEVEX

Air Vehicle Operator 2 - Deployed

Solana Beach, CA · On-site

$23 - $28.75/hr

The AVO is the PIC responsible for safe and legal flight of the air vehicle. Essential Functions ... Understands government defense industry policies and procedures related to operating aircraft and ...

StaffWorthy

Be Seen First

Autonomous Vehicle Operator - (Night Shift ONLY)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$29/hr

Operate advanced autonomous vehicles while supporting testing, data collection, and vehicle operations. We are looking for detail-oriented drivers who are comfortable working overnight, using ...

New

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsVehicle Operator JobsVehicle Operator Jobs in California

Vehicle Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$23

$30

How much do vehicle operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle operator in California is $23.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vehicle operator?

Vehicle operators are professionals responsible for driving and managing various types of vehicles, such as cars, trucks, buses, or specialized machinery. Their duties often include transporting goods or passengers, ensuring vehicle safety, conducting routine inspections, and adhering to traffic laws. Vehicle operators may work in industries like transportation, logistics, public transit, or construction. They must typically hold a valid driver's license appropriate for the vehicles they operate and may require additional certifications for specialized vehicles.

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

To thrive as a Vehicle Operator, you need a valid driver's license, safe driving skills, and a solid understanding of traffic laws and vehicle maintenance. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, fleet management software, and, in some cases, a commercial driver's license (CDL) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, time management, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, timely, and efficient transportation of goods or passengers, while minimizing risks and maintaining operational reliability.

What are some common challenges vehicle operators face in their daily work, and how can they be addressed?

Vehicle Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating heavy traffic, adhering to strict delivery schedules, and maintaining vehicle safety standards. These issues can be managed by planning routes in advance, staying updated on traffic conditions, and performing regular vehicle inspections. Additionally, effective communication with dispatchers and team members helps address unexpected delays or changes, ensuring a smooth workflow and timely deliveries.

What is the difference between Vehicle Operator vs Truck Driver?

AspectVehicle OperatorTruck Driver
Required CredentialsDriver's license, possibly specialized licenses for certain vehiclesCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentVaries from buses, forklifts, to construction vehiclesLong-haul or local trucking, freight transport
Employer & Industry UsagePublic transit, construction, logisticsFreight companies, logistics, supply chain

Vehicle Operators and Truck Drivers both operate vehicles, but Vehicle Operators typically handle a wider range of vehicles including buses and construction equipment, often requiring similar licenses. Truck Drivers focus specifically on freight transport with a CDL. The roles overlap in licensing and work environments, but their primary functions differ based on vehicle type and industry focus.

What cities in California are hiring for Vehicle Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Vehicle Operator job openings:

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

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

Vehicle Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,073 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Vehicle Operator - Palo Alto, CA

Kett Engineering Corporation

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$26/hr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Our Test and Development team is growing and we are looking for Vehicle Operators. In this role, you will be responsible for operating, driving, troubleshooting, and evaluating our prototype test vehicles and documenting product development feedback to our engineers. This takes the form of operating test vehicles statically, driving on public roads, or private test facilities, conducting safety inspections, and performing specialized test procedures.
The Driver 1 works under the direction of the Lead Driver and Driver Supervisor to ensure test schedule requirements and relevant procedures are followed. Additionally, the Driver 1 upholds a professional working relationship with all associates and sets an example for other employees.
Responsibilities
  • Safely operate test vehicles in a wide range of testing conditions up to 8 hours/day
  • Perform vehicle prep work, including basic vehicle inspections and diagnostics before and after driving
  • Troubleshoot hardware and software issues
  • Collect data via data acquisition systems
  • Complete clear, concise, and detailed post-drive reports and online tickets, working with and escalating to engineers as necessary
  • Assist with training of new vehicle operators
  • Additional work and tasks as needed by the team

Qualifications
  • Prior professional automotive driving or autonomous vehicle experience
  • Self-motivated, organized, and demonstrate good judgment in a fast-paced, high-stress environment
  • Attention to detail and ability to describe events quickly and concisely
  • Good command of the English language with excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Proficiency in using a smartphone, laptop, and Google Work Suite
  • Smartphone within 3 model years of current year
  • Ability to drive safely in all conditions and alone or with a partner for 6-8 hrs. a day
  • Must be flexible to work overtime as needed
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must be willing to travel, up to a two week maximum
  • Must be able to pass an MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) background check and onsite road test examination

Critical Skills:
  • Safety- Abides by, promotes and acknowledges all safety practices in keeping with high safety standards.
  • Communications- Must provide information and receive feedback in a concise, accurate and detailed manner.
  • Dependability- Display ability to successfully and satisfactorily complete assigned tasks.
  • Cooperation- Exhibit characteristics of an effective team member focused on a common goal, promotes the development of like qualities in others.
  • Initiative and Resourcefulness- Possess initiative to take effective action, anticipate needs and perform in accordance to resources provided.
  • Flexibility- Must be willing and able to expand the scope of responsibilities as dependent upon requirements of the business environment.
  • Commitment- Able to accept assigned tasks with a quality result as an objective.
  • Dedication- Demonstrate the ability to consistently perform all responsibilities with integrity.
  • Role Model- Serve as an example for Kett's Vision and Values.
  • Result Oriented- Accomplish performance targets established by Kett and the customer.

If you qualify, please send your resume and apply by going to the APPLY NOW form in the upper right-hand corner of this screen.

Apply