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Wash Rack Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Class A Driver

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Maintain cleanliness and organization of the yard, wash rack, and equipment staging areas ... Prior experience operating tractor-trailers, flatbeds, towing equipment, and transporting heavy ...

Mechanic 2

Merced, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Be able to perform basic Wash Rack duties such as washing equipment and cleaning chemicals to ... have an operator's station (RTVs, water trucks, etc.). * Establishes and maintains effective ...

New

Mechanic 3

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$27 - $36/hr

Be able to perform basic Wash Rack duties such as washing equipment and cleaning chemicals to ... Interior cleaning including inside of windows, tractors, and other equipment which have an operator ...

Utility

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $22/hr

Check equipment in and out while verifying operating condition. * Clean rental equipment using wash racks, steam cleaners, and pressure washers. * Safely operate forklifts, material handling ...

Utility

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $22/hr

Check equipment in and out while verifying operating condition. * Clean rental equipment using wash racks, steam cleaners, and pressure washers. * Safely operate forklifts, material handling ...

Utility

San Juan Capistrano, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $22/hr

Check equipment in and out while verifying operating condition. * Clean rental equipment using wash racks, steam cleaners, and pressure washers. * Safely operate forklifts, material handling ...

Showing results 21-40

Wash Rack Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$23

$39

How much do wash rack operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for wash rack operator in California is $23.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wash rack operator?

A Wash Rack Operator is responsible for cleaning and maintaining equipment, vehicles, or machinery using specialized washing systems and tools. They ensure that all items are washed thoroughly, inspected for damage, and prepared for further use or transport. This role often involves operating pressure washers, water recycling systems, and other cleaning equipment while following safety and environmental regulations. Wash Rack Operators may also perform basic maintenance on washing equipment and keep records of cleaning activities. The position is commonly found in industries such as construction, transportation, and heavy equipment rental.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wash rack operator?

To thrive as a Wash Rack Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial cleaning procedures, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with power washers, cleaning chemicals, and safety protocols—sometimes requiring OSHA or HAZMAT certifications—is typically necessary. Strong organizational skills, reliability, and effective communication help you coordinate workflow and maintain safety standards. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure equipment is thoroughly cleaned, workplace safety is upheld, and operations run efficiently.

What are some typical challenges faced by wash rack operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Wash Rack Operators often encounter challenges such as handling heavy equipment, managing strict cleanliness standards, and ensuring safety while working with cleaning chemicals and machinery. To manage these effectively, it's important to follow proper safety protocols, use personal protective equipment, and maintain organized workflows. Teamwork is also crucial, as operators frequently coordinate with mechanics, drivers, and supervisors to ensure equipment is cleaned and returned efficiently, minimizing downtime and maintaining operational flow.

What is the difference between Wash Rack Operator vs Vehicle Detailer?

AspectWash Rack OperatorVehicle Detailer
CredentialsNone typically required; may need OSHA safety trainingMay require basic automotive or detailing certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial or commercial wash stations, often outdoors or in garagesIndoor detailing shops, garages, or dealerships
Job FocusOperating washing equipment, ensuring vehicle cleanliness in a quick, efficient mannerDeep cleaning, polishing, and cosmetic detailing of vehicles

The main difference between a Wash Rack Operator and a Vehicle Detailer lies in their focus and scope of work. Wash Rack Operators primarily handle the operation of washing equipment to clean vehicles efficiently, often in industrial settings. Vehicle Detailers, on the other hand, perform detailed cleaning and cosmetic work to enhance vehicle appearance. While both roles require knowledge of vehicle cleaning, the Wash Rack Operator role emphasizes operational skills and safety in a high-volume environment, whereas Vehicle Detailers focus on thorough, aesthetic detailing.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Wash Rack Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,455 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Service Maintenance Technician - Rancho Bernardo

Hawthorne Machinery Co.

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

We Build Better Communities
Be Part of the Hawthorne Difference!
Hawthorne Cat is a family-owned company that has led its markets for over 60 years in the sale, rental, and servicing of construction machinery and power generation equipment for industries on which our communities depend like agriculture, construction, marine, and government.
Every member of our team plays a significant role in our success. Hawthorne Cat hires individuals who share our vision of Building Better Communities with our Customers and our values of Passion, Respect, Integrity, Dedication and Excellence (PRIDE).
If you are looking to build your future with an established, thriving company with countless opportunities for growth and advancement, you've come to the right place! At Hawthorne Cat, we're always looking for exceptionally skilled, hardworking individuals interested in contributing to our success and the success of the communities that we serve.
Our people are our most valuable asset. That's why at Hawthorne Cat we are committed to a comprehensive employee benefit program that helps our employees stay healthy, feel secure, and maintain a work/life balance.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Service Maintenance Technician performs small mechanical, and preventative maintenance repairs under close supervision of the Service Manager along with fellow experienced technicians. All the necessary tooling for this position will be supplied along with the opportunity for training and growth.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  1. Cleans equipment by operating wash rack steam cleaner and high-pressure washer.
  2. Maintains safe and clean work environment by complying with procedures, rules and regulations.
  3. Ensures proper operation of equipment by completing maintenance services and minor repairs; following manufacturer's instructions.
  4. Determines condition of equipment by inspecting equipment before and after use; reporting requirements.
  5. Performs regular service and preventive maintenance tasks on equipment to keep in safe, dependable operating condition ensuring proper operations and the removal of parts and attachments.
  6. Develops and maintains positive relationships with customers to increase overall customer satisfaction
  7. Completes reports as requested by entering required information.
  8. Continually updates product knowledge needed to work on new models.
  9. Contributes to a team effort by accomplishing duties assigned.
  10. Maintains safe and clean work environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.
  11. Maintains shop tools, equipment, and work areas.
  12. Other duties as assigned by Lead or Supervisor

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS REQUIRED:
  1. Must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
  2. Zero to two (0-2) year's minimum experience with heavy equipment/diesel experience
  3. Certification or degree from accredited trade program strongly preferred.
  4. Experience using electronic devices such as laptops tablets, smart phones, and cell phone applications.
  5. Must have a valid California Class C driver's license and a clean driving record.
  6. Must be a good communicator and have good customer service skills.
  7. Must read, write and speak English fluently.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  1. Walking and moving about on foot often through uneven terrain.
  2. Hands/arms operating equipment, hand and power tools.
  3. Lifting: Up to 50 lbs. daily, frequent exertion. Raises or lowers miscellaneous equipment parts and tools.
  4. Handling: Works with hands.
  5. Reaching: Extends hands and arms in any direction.
  6. Standing: Remains in standing position if required for certain repair or maintenance work.
  7. Climbing: In and out of equipment.
  8. Vision: Reads work tickets, parts and service books and operates heavy equipment.
  9. Talking: Communicates via telecommunications, in writing, and in person.
  10. Sitting: Sits in equipment and in vehicles.
  11. Stooping: Bends body downward and forward by bending at knees or waist.
  12. Hearing: Hears well enough to discern mechanical problems for safety in and around shop and construction sites and to receive communication via telecommunications and in person.
  13. Laying: Lies in prone position under vehicles and equipment.

ENVIRONMENTAL:
  1. Noise: Works in conditions with constant or intermittent noise.
  2. Temperatures/Weather: Works in the field, outside with variations of temperature and weather.
  3. Exposure: Foul odors, fumes and harsh substances.

HERE'S WHAT WE OFFER...
  • Competitive Compensation
  • A great work environment and culture
  • Career growth and advancement opportunities
  • Training
  • Medical, Dental and Vision plans
  • Medical Video Appointments available
  • Health Savings Account available
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) Pay
  • 401(k) Plan + Company Matching
  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Legal Plan
  • Travel Assistance Plan
  • Wellness Programs
  • Referral Bonus Program
  • Longevity Bonus Program
  • Recognition Programs and much more
  • Hawthorne CAT discounts
  • Boot Reimbursement
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Company-Supplied Uniforms
  • Advanced Technical Training
  • Estimated Compensation $25.00 - $33.00 per hour

Interested in joining the Hawthorne team? Check out our current available positions at:
www.hawthornecat.com/careers
ACCOMMODATIONS: Reasonable accommodations for essential functions of the position will be considered.
Hawthorne Cat® is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. M/F/V/D
Hawthorne Cat® Participates in E-Verify.