ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Yard Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Advanced Drainage Systems

Yard Loader

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20.65 - $23.60/hr

A Yard Loader must demonstrate safe and proper vehicle operation at all times. This position also interacts with company and non-company drivers as well as will-call customers and should display ...

Advanced Drainage Systems

Yard Loader

San Jose, CA

$20.65 - $23.60/hr

A Yard Loader is responsible for safely and accurately loading and unloading all deliveries made and received by ADS. A Yard Loader must demonstrate safe and proper vehicle operation at all times.

Advanced Drainage Systems

Yard Loader

Alviso, CA · On-site

$20.65 - $23.60/hr

A Yard Loader must demonstrate safe and proper vehicle operation at all times. This position also interacts with company and non-company drivers as well as will-call customers and should display ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Fremont, CA · On-site

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment ... About the team - Yard Operations We conduct hundreds of live auctions each year around the world.

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Fremont, CA · On-site

Accountable for helping to set up equipment in the yard for auctions. * Help customers load their ... Experience operating heavy machinery. * Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset.

RB Global Inc.

Loader Operator I

Dixon, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Accountable for helping to set up equipment in the yard for auctions. * Help customers load their ... Experience operating heavy machinery. * Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset.

Radius Recycling

Loader Operator

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Loader Operator The Loader Operator will contribute to the production team to ensure goals are met ... Move vehicles, cores, scrap, and other material safely through the yard. Ensure that loads are ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Dixon, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment ... About the team - Yard Operations We conduct hundreds of live auctions each year around the world.

Schnitzer Steel Industries Inc

Loader Operator

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

The Loader Operator will contribute to the production team to ensure goals are met safely and ... Move vehicles, cores, scrap, and other material safely through the yard. Ensure that loads are ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Dixon, CA · On-site

Accountable for helping to set up equipment in the yard for auctions. * Help customers load their ... Experience operating heavy machinery. * Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset.

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Dixon, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Accountable for helping to set up equipment in the yard for auctions. * Help customers load their ... Experience operating heavy machinery. * Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset.

Pick Your Part

Yard Worker

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Work with Loader Operator to stage vehicles or pull vehicles in yard properly * Walk the yard and place debris in the cars being removed from the yard * Dismantle tires * Maintain a safe and clean ...

Pick Your Part

Yard Worker

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Work with Loader Operator to stage vehicles or pull vehicles in yard properly * Walk the yard and place debris in the cars being removed from the yard * Dismantle tires * Maintain a safe and clean ...

Pick Your Part

Yard Worker

San Bernardino, CA

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Work with Loader Operator to stage vehicles or pull vehicles in yard properly * Walk the yard and place debris in the cars being removed from the yard * Dismantle tires * Maintain a safe and clean ...

Pick Your Part

Yard Worker

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Work with Loader Operator to stage vehicles or pull vehicles in yard properly * Walk the yard and place debris in the cars being removed from the yard * Dismantle tires * Maintain a safe and clean ...

Pick Your Part

Yard Worker

Bloomington, CA

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Work with Loader Operator to stage vehicles or pull vehicles in yard properly * Walk the yard and place debris in the cars being removed from the yard * Dismantle tires * Maintain a safe and clean ...

Pick Your Part

Yard Worker

Chula Vista, CA

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Work with Loader Operator to stage vehicles or pull vehicles in yard properly * Walk the yard and place debris in the cars being removed from the yard * Dismantle tires * Maintain a safe and clean ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsYard Loader Operator JobsYard Loader Operator Jobs in California

Yard Loader Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$20

How much do yard loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard loader operator in California is $17.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Yard Loader Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectYard Loader OperatorEquipment Operator
CertificationsForklift, skid steer, or loader certifications often requiredHeavy machinery operation certifications, such as CDL or specialized equipment licenses
Work EnvironmentYards, construction sites, warehouses, outdoor and indoor settingsConstruction sites, industrial facilities, outdoor environments
Job FocusLoading/unloading materials, moving goods within yardsOperating various heavy machinery for construction, excavation, or material handling

The Yard Loader Operator primarily handles loading and moving materials within yards using loaders and forklifts, focusing on material handling in outdoor or warehouse environments. Equipment Operators may work with a broader range of machinery across construction or industrial sites. Both roles require similar certifications and share work environments, but their specific duties differ based on the machinery and tasks involved.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Yard Loader Operator, and why are they important?

A Yard Loader Operator needs proficiency in operating heavy machinery, knowledge of safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as front-end loaders, forklifts, and computerized inventory systems is often required, along with certifications like OSHA training. Attention to detail, strong communication, and reliability are vital soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient operations. These abilities are crucial for maintaining productivity, preventing accidents, and supporting smooth workflow in busy yard environments.

What does a Yard Loader Operator do?

A Yard Loader Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery, such as front-end loaders, to move materials like gravel, sand, soil, or aggregate within a yard or construction site. Their duties often include loading and unloading trucks, organizing material stockpiles, and ensuring safe, efficient movement of materials. They also inspect equipment for maintenance needs and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. This role is vital in industries like construction, mining, and material supply, where timely handling of materials is essential.

What Are Duties and Responsibilities of a Yard Loader Operator?

The responsibilities of a yard loader operator include hauling materials in a loader safely and efficiently at a construction site. You drive a dump truck, operate a loader, and control other heavy equipment such as excavation machines or forklifts, abiding by all safety standards, to scoop and load aggregate and other materials necessary for construction. You report to the job site foreman, train new employees on safe loader operation, communicate with truck drivers before and after you load the trucks to ensure safety, and complete other duties as assigned. Some employers require attendance at weekly safety meetings and job site inspections. You also help investigate incidents and damage. Other duties include maintenance and regularly checking all equipment for fault, wear, or damage, following instructions from the job site foreman and other supervisors.

What are some common challenges faced by Yard Loader Operators, and how can they be managed on the job?

Yard Loader Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or crowded spaces, and maintaining safety while handling heavy equipment. Clear communication with team members and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential to minimize risks and ensure efficient operations. Many employers offer regular safety training and encourage operators to report hazards promptly, which helps create a supportive and proactive work environment.
More about Yard Loader Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Yard Loader Operator jobs in California? For Yard Loader Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Yard Loader Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Yard Loader Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Yard Loader Operator jobs in CA? For Yard Loader Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Yard Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Yard Loader Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,404 per year, or $18 per hour.

Yard Loader

Advanced Drainage Systems

San Jose, CA • On-site

$20.65 - $23.60/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Advanced Drainage Systems rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 84 rated plastic manufacturers

Job description

Overview
Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic wastewater solutions, committed to sustainability and innovation. With a vast manufacturing and distribution network, we deliver high-quality products across multiple industries while recycling over half a billion pounds of plastic annually. At ADS, we foster a culture where diverse perspectives drive better ideas, ensuring every employee feels valued, heard, and empowered to make an impact.
Responsibilities
A Yard Loader is responsible for safely and accurately loading and unloading all deliveries made and received by ADS. A Yard Loader must demonstrate safe and proper vehicle operation at all times. This position also interacts with company and non-company drivers as well as will-call customers and should display excellent customer service skills. This position requires the flexibility to work 40+ hours per week and weekends as required. Loaders report directly to the Yard Supervisor and/or Yard Manager.
Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:
  • Embrace a culture of safety. We expect our people to communicate unsafe conditions, acts or injuries immediately
  • Maintain a safe working environment that includes the consistent use of Personal Protection Equipment to ensure your safety
  • Safely operate a forklift and conduct preventative maintenance on forklifts and other machines in the plant
  • Ensure quality by conducting final visual inspections and labeling all finished goods
  • Promote good customer service skills when loading and unloading deliveries while minimizing errors
  • Ensure proper product rotation and tracking of inventory levels
  • Ability to learn and stay current on pipe specifications and packaging requirements
  • Practice continuous improvement with regard to process and facility housekeeping
  • Invest in your career with ADS. Build and maintain job skills and additional earning potential through company training programs
  • Other duties as assigned

Job Skills:
This position should possess the following skills/knowledge:
  • Self-motivated and the ability to work independently
  • Energetic and thrive in a fast paced environment
  • Basic inventory management skills
  • Forklift operation
  • Dependability
  • Ability to learn new skills
  • Team-oriented
  • Basic mathematical skills

Educational Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent

Preferred Experience:
  • Previous warehouse, industrial or manufacturing experience

Benefits
We offer a competitive salary and an excellent benefits program including:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (Health Care and Dependent Care)
  • Company-Paid Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Programs
  • Profit Sharing Plan (401k)
  • Paid Holidays/ Vacation Days
  • Bereavement Pay
  • Jury Duty
  • Military Leave

Hourly Range:
$20.65 - $23.60
Individual pay may vary and is determined by work location, shift, and factors such as job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. ADS offers competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and competitive medical and retirement benefit programs. Your recruiter can share more specific information on the role and location of which you apply.
Company Benefits:
Health & Welfare Benefits: Medical and prescription drug plans, telemedicine (with medical plan), High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and Health Savings Account (HSA), dental and vision plans, virtual physical therapy*, an employee assistance program (EAP)*, and voluntary accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnification programs.
Financial Benefits: Retirement 401k program with company match, an employee stock purchase plan (voluntary), financial wellness planning*, paid parental leave*, flexible spending accounts (FSA) for child care and health care, short-term and long-term disability*, basic life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)*, adoption financial reimbursement*, tuition reimbursement*, voluntary life insurance (for employees, spouses, and children), and voluntary identity theft and fraud protection.
*100% paid by ADS.
Why Join ADS?
Growth Opportunities & Global Presence: With a global network of approximately 70 manufacturing plants and 40 distribution centers, ADS offers extensive opportunities for career growth and development in various locations around the world.
Inclusive and Creative Work Culture: ADS fosters a culture of passion, innovation, and continuous improvement, empowering employees to shape industry-leading solutions. We value diverse perspectives, recognizing that they drive better ideas, processes, and performance. Our workplace is built on respect, inclusivity, and shared responsibility, ensuring every team member feels valued and contributes to our collective success.
Innovative & Sustainability Focused: Advanced Drainage Systems is one of the largest plastic recyclers in North America, ensuring over half a billion pounds of plastic is kept out of landfills every year.
Learn More: https://www.adspipe.com/about-us
EEO Statement
ADS supports an inclusive workplace that values diversity of thought, experience, and background. We celebrate the power of our differences to create better solutions for our customers by ensuring employees can be their authentic selves each day. ADS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, creed, status with regard to public assistance, genetic status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.

What Advanced Drainage Systems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply