ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Graniterock

Loader Operator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Load customer finished aggregate into customer trucks when required. Inspect and manage inbound rubble stream as well as stockpiles. Assist the crushing plant operator perform routine maintenance ...

Graniterock

Loader Operator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Load customer finished aggregate into customer trucks when required. Inspect and manage inbound rubble stream as well as stockpiles. Assist the crushing plant operator perform routine maintenance ...

Turner Mining Group

Loader Operator

Hinkley, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

Overview Turner Staffing Group is hiring a Production Loader Operator to support a mining operation in Hinkley, California. This is a key production role responsible for efficiently loading haul ...

Turner Mining Group

Loader Operator

Hinkley, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Overview Turner Staffing Group is hiring a Production Loader Operator to support a mining operation in Hinkley, California. This is a key production role responsible for efficiently loading haul ...

Turner Mining Group

Loader Operator

Hinkley, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Overview Turner Staffing Group is hiring a Production Loader Operator to support a mining operation in Hinkley, California. This is a key production role responsible for efficiently loading haul ...

CalPortland

Aggregate Loader Operator

Victorville, CA

$27 - $33/hr

The Loader Operator is expected to perform other tasks required to safely and efficiently operate and maintain/repair fixed and mobile equipment. Benefits At CalPortland, we're proud to offer a ...

RB Global Inc.

Loader Operator I

Fremont, CA · On-site

$23.50/hr

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions. Responsibilities Responsible ...

City of St. Peters

$17.50 - $23/hr

Peters is looking for a motivated and safety-conscious Transfer Station Loader Operator to join our Solid Waste Division. This position supports the daily operations of our new, state-of-the-art ...

Athens Services

Heavy Equipment Operator

Whittier, CA · On-site

$26.09 - $28.84/hr

Operate wheel loaders in a manner that does not endanger personnel or equipment, and that complies with the company's operating and safety policies. * Keep tipping floor material safely arranged to ...

ERRG

Equipment Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

... wheel loaders, and backhoes. * Locate underground services, such as pipes and wires, prior to ... Demonstrated experience operating excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, compactors, articulated dump ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs in California

Wheel Loader Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in California is $18.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wheel loader operator?

As a wheel loader operator, you use front-end loaders to transport and haul materials or debris around a construction site. The bucket on the wheel loader is used to load and unload materials like ground fill or debris from demolished structures. Wheel loader operators are skilled at driving and controlling these large machines, coordinating with site management and other drivers to ensure safe operation at all times.

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

To thrive as a Wheel Loader Operator, you need practical experience with heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a relevant equipment operator certification or license. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, onboard computers, safety procedures, and routine maintenance tools is crucial. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help operators work safely and efficiently within team environments. These competencies ensure safe operation, prevent equipment damage, and contribute to productivity on construction or industrial sites.

What are the most common challenges faced by a wheel loader operator on a construction site?

Wheel Loader Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating around tight spaces or other heavy machinery, and maintaining clear communication with ground crews. Staying alert and adhering to strict safety protocols is crucial to prevent accidents. Additionally, operators are expected to perform routine equipment checks and minor maintenance, ensuring the loader is always in optimal working condition. Adapting to rapidly changing job site priorities and collaborating with other operators and site supervisors are also key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Wheel Loader Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectWheel Loader OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often preferred, OSHA safety trainingOSHA safety training, sometimes specific excavator certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, material handlingConstruction sites, demolition, trenching
Common UsageLoading/unloading materials, moving bulk materialsDigging, trenching, lifting heavy objects

While both Wheel Loader Operators and Excavator Operators work in construction and mining environments, their roles differ in equipment and tasks. Wheel Loader Operators primarily handle loading and moving bulk materials, whereas Excavator Operators focus on digging and trenching. Certifications and safety training overlap, but their specific equipment skills vary. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and project needs.

Do you need a license to operate a wheel loader?

Yes, wheel loader operators typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or a specialized certification, depending on state or industry requirements. Employers often require training and certification in equipment operation and safety procedures before employment.
More about Wheel Loader Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Wheel Loader Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Wheel Loader Operator job openings:

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

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

Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,957 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Loader Operator

Graniterock

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Place personal safety and safety of others before all else. Provide excellent customer service. Utilizing 988 Loader feed Telsmith Crushing Plant with recycled concrete and asphalt rubble. Load customer finished aggregate into customer trucks when required. Inspect and manage inbound rubble stream as well as stockpiles. Assist the crushing plant operator perform routine maintenance, repairs, plant and mechanical inspections. Perform daily safety equipment inspections and routine loader maintenance. Develop the skills through onsite training to become the backup Telsmith crusher plant operator. Maintain environmental records as well as environmental BMP infrastructure throughout branch site; work well independently and in a team environment; communicate effectively with team members and customers. Work in alignment with Graniterock's Strategic Priorities and business objectives.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION: High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
SKILLS: Loader operator, welding and mechanical skills; safety conscious; self-motivated; excellent customer service skills.
EXPERIENCE: 3-5 yrs. 980 or 988 (or equal) Loader operator experience.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
SKILLS: Welding and Mechanical skills. Bilingual English / Spanish.
EXPERIENCE: 8 yrs Loader Operator experience and crusher experience.
OTHER COMMENTS: Must have valid CA Driver's License and clean driving record. Must be a team player, have a positive attitude and be reliable.

Apply