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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

$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 ...

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 ...

RB Global Inc.

Loader Operator I

Dixon, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/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

CalPortland

Aggregate Loader Operator

Victorville, CA · On-site

$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 ...

CalPortland

Aggregate Loader Operator

Victorville, CA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Ideal Tridon

Coil Loader Floop Operator

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$25.49/hr

We are seeking a Coil Loader and Loop Operator to join our team at Ideal Tridon - Wesanco in Garden Grove, California. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday (1st) Sunday - Thursday (3rd Shift) Shift: 1st ...

Ideal Tridon

Coil Loader Floop Operator

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$25.49/hr

We are seeking a Coil Loader and Loop Operator to join our team at Ideal Tridon - Wesanco in Garden Grove, California. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday (1st) Sunday - Thursday (3rd Shift) Shift: 1st ...

CERES

Logging Operator

Cameron Park, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Operate an excavator, bulldozer, wheel loader, wheel loader with grapple or log fork, track skid ... Essential Qualifications: * 2-3 years or more of experience in operating logging or heavy equipment.

Athens Services

Heavy Equipment Operator

Whittier, CA

$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 ...

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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 Jul 14, 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.

Do you need a license to drive a wheel loader?

Yes, a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or specific equipment operation certification is typically required to operate a wheel loader, depending on state or local regulations. Employers often require operators to complete safety training and demonstrate proficiency before use.

What are wheel loader operators?

Wheel loader operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery known as wheel loaders, which are used to move materials such as soil, gravel, sand, and debris on construction sites, quarries, and other industrial locations. Their responsibilities include loading and unloading materials, transporting them to designated areas, and maintaining the equipment to ensure safe operation. Operators must be attentive to safety protocols and often require specialized training or certification. They play a vital role in keeping construction and material-handling operations efficient and safe.

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.

Is a loader operator a good job?

A loader operator is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery like wheel loaders to move materials in construction, mining, or industrial settings. The job typically requires physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and may involve certifications such as OSHA training. It can offer steady employment and competitive wages depending on experience and location.

How to make money with a wheel loader?

A wheel loader operator can make money by working for construction, mining, or agricultural companies, performing tasks such as loading materials, moving earth, or clearing sites. Gaining experience, obtaining relevant certifications, and working in high-demand environments can increase earning potential. Some operators also rent out equipment or start their own contracting business to generate additional income.

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 jobs pay $700 a day?

Wheel loader operators in construction and mining can sometimes earn $700 or more per day, especially with overtime, experience, and specialized skills. High-paying roles often require certifications, operating heavy machinery, and working in demanding environments or during long shifts.
More about Wheel Loader Operator jobs
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Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Loader Operator

Loader Operator

Graniterock

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 2 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.

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