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Wash Rack Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 3

Salinas, CA · On-site

$33 - $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 ...

Mechanic 3

Merced, CA · On-site

$27 - $32/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 ...

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 ...

Dish Machine Operator

Corning, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

This role typically involves operating dishwashing machines, hand-washing items as needed, and ... Scrapes food from dirty dishes and washes them by hand or places them in racks or on conveyor to ...

Sanitation Worker

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

This includes cleaning and sanitizing machinery, tables, and rack. Follow standard work methods and ... Must have room rinsed, washed, and sanitized before lunch * Must complete thorough, pre-op ready ...

Sanitation Worker

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

This includes cleaning and sanitizing machinery, tables, and rack. Follow standard work methods and ... Must have room rinsed, washed, and sanitized before lunch * Must complete thorough, pre-op ready ...

Harvest Cellar Intern

Hopland, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Extensive pressure washing, cleaning and sanitation of tanks, barrels, equipment, hoses, surfaces ... as racking, draining, transfers, and blending * Assist crush equipment operators during the ...

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Wash Rack Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$23

$39

How much do wash rack operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 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, and why are they important?

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,455 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Lexus of Stevens Creek Valet

Lexus of Stevens Creek Valet

Penske Motor Group

San Jose, CA

$20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Overview

Our Car Wash Valets create the first and last impression for our guests!

From moving vehicles smoothly, safely, and efficiently, Valets represent the dealership in a professional and friendly manner. A large part of your role will be to enhance the Lexus of Stevens Creek guest experience. Our ideal candidate is energetic, self-motivated, a team player, has excellent communication skills, and approaches every task with a positive attitude.

If you have those qualities, we can teach you the rest! This is an entry level, full-time position, with a chance to learn about the automotive industry. At Lexus of Stevens Creek, the opportunities are endless, and can promote from within into roles such as a Service Consultant, Service Technician, Sales Consultant, and many more.

The Valet Car Wash has a Pay Scale consisting of the following elements and ranges. Wages include Base Hourly Compensation of $20.00.

*This position is 100% on site at Lexus of Stevens Creek in Santa Clara, CA.

Perks of working with us:

  • Weekly Pay - get paid every Friday.
  • Vacation (accruals earned on Full Time or Part Time status)
  • Vision, dental, and medical care benefits available to any team full time team member
  • Team member referral bonus program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Discounts with Corporate Partners like GE, Dell, Oakley, Yeti, Ray Ban, and many more....
  • Development and growth opportunities
  • 401k with a generous Company match
Responsibilities
  • Washes exterior of vehicle after it is serviced or sold.
  • Ensures that the exterior of each guest's vehicle is thoroughly clean before delivered to guest.
  • Keeps finished vehicles maintained in an orderly fashion throughout the Sales lot.
  • Keeps smooth and efficient traffic flow through the wash rack.
  • Ensures all tools are in good working condition.
  • Assist in all other areas of the Sales/Service department, as needed.
  • Knowledge of chemicals and products used in automotive detailing as well as safety procedures related to these products.
  • Follows all company safety policies, operations, and practices.
  • Maintains high ethical standards in all actions.
  • Maintains a high level of grooming, hygiene, and uniform appearance.
Qualifications
  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to read and comprehend instructions and information in the English language.
  • Work well with the public.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and have and maintain an acceptable, safe driving record.   

Physical Demands

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. Individual will be required to:

  • Frequently bend, stretch, twist, or reach with their body, arms, and/or legs; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions including low and high temperatures, precipitation and wind, noisy environments, and small and/or enclosed spaces.
  • Adjusting, moving, and lifting objects up to 50 pounds.
  • Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
  • Remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods.
  • Operating motor vehicles and/or heavy equipment.
  • Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, and poles. 

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Why Penske Motor Group

WHAT SETS US APART FROM THE COMPETITION!

Lexus of Stevens Creek is a proud member of the Penske Motor Group family of automotive dealerships.  We take a different approach than others in the industry.  We provide the best possible guest experience for the thousands of guests we serve annually, whether they are purchasing a new vehicle, a pre-owned vehicle or having their vehicle serviced by one of our expert Technicians. As the #1 New & Pre-Owned dealership in Northern California, we have the largest inventory, offer great values, above all we make sure that our Guests and Team Members are treated special; and that is one of the reasons that it's not only a pleasure to shop here but to work here as well.

We are looking for the best and brightest to join our team!

Are you eager, well-rounded, and ambitious? 

Do you value exceptional guest service? 

Are you ready for the new adventure in your career? 

Then apply with us today! 

WHAT DO TEAM MEMBERS HAVE TO SAY?

Want to know what it's like to work here?  Check us out on Glassdoor.com! http://www.glassdoor.com/Overview/Working-at-Penske-Motor-Group-EI_IE510101.11,29.htm

Employment Type: OTHER