ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Yard Operative Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

American Recycling Holdings

Yard Laborer

Escalon, CA

$17 - $18/hr

Operating various yard equipment, such as forklifts and skid steers * Assisting with inventory management and tracking * Performing basic maintenance and repairs on yard equipment * Assisting with ...

American Recycling Holdings

Yard Laborer

Modesto, CA

$17 - $18/hr

Operating various yard equipment, such as forklifts and skid steers * Assisting with inventory management and tracking * Performing basic maintenance and repairs on yard equipment * Assisting with ...

American Recycling Holdings

Yard Laborer

Stockton, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Operating various yard equipment, such as forklifts and skid steers * Assisting with inventory management and tracking * Performing basic maintenance and repairs on yard equipment * Assisting with ...

Harris Ranch Beef Company

Yard Operator (24741)

Coalinga, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $19.25/hr

The Yard Operator Secures premises by patrolling property, closing/locking designated gates, monitoring equipment, inspecting buildings (including office, barns, shop, hospitals, and mill), equipment ...

HARRIS FEEDING CO

Yard Operator (24741)

Coalinga, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $19.25/hr

The Yard Operator Secures premises by patrolling property, closing/locking designated gates, monitoring equipment, inspecting buildings (including office, barns, shop, hospitals, and mill), equipment ...

Knife River

Yard Operator - Stockton, CA

Stockton, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Yard Operator - Stockton, CA Job Category: Labor Requisition Number: YARDO003164 Full-Time On-site Stockton, CA 95205, USA Pay or shift range: $24 USD to $26 USD The estimated range is the budgeted ...

SHR CORP USA

Be Seen First

Yard Goat/ Sit Down Forklift

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

The Yard Goat / Sit-Down Forklift Operator is responsible for safely moving trailers within the yard, operating a sit-down forklift to load and unload freight, and supporting warehouse shipping and ...

New

Venturi Supply

Pipe Yard Machine Operator

Shafter, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Role Overview The Pipe Yard Machine Operator will be responsible for operating and maintaining various pipe machining equipment to produce high-quality precision components. Your expertise in ...

Venturi Supply LLC

Pipe Yard Machine Operator

Shafter, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Role Overview The Pipe Yard Machine Operator will be responsible for operating and maintaining various pipe machining equipment to produce high-quality precision components. Your expertise in ...

Central Valley

Yard Manager

Woodland, CA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Central Valley is a leading family-owned and operated building ... The Yard Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient, and organized daily operation of the yard.

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

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsYard Operative JobsYard Operative Jobs in California

Yard Operative information

See California salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do yard operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard operative in California is $17.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Yard Operative, you typically need basic literacy and numeracy skills, physical fitness, and familiarity with health and safety regulations. Experience with forklifts, pallet trucks, and inventory management systems, plus relevant certifications like a forklift license, are often required. Strong teamwork, communication, and attention to detail help you excel in a busy yard environment. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure efficient operations, workplace safety, and accuracy in handling goods.

What are some typical challenges faced by Yard Operatives, and how can they be managed effectively?

Yard Operatives often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment, working outdoors in varying weather conditions, and ensuring the safe handling of heavy equipment and materials. To manage these effectively, it’s important to prioritize safety protocols, maintain clear communication with team members, and stay organized to handle workflow efficiently. Many companies offer training and support to help operatives develop these skills, making it easier to adapt and succeed in the role.

What is the difference between Yard Operative vs Warehouse Operative?

AspectYard OperativeWarehouse Operative
CredentialsTypically no formal certifications requiredOften requires basic health & safety training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor yard, open space, often in logistics or construction sitesIndoor warehouse, storage facilities
Employer & IndustryLogistics, construction, manufacturingRetail, distribution, manufacturing
Common TasksLoading/unloading, yard maintenance, vehicle movementPicking, packing, inventory management

While both roles involve physical work and logistics, Yard Operatives primarily work outdoors managing yard activities, whereas Warehouse Operatives work indoors handling stock and order processing. The choice depends on your preferred environment and specific skills.

What are yard operatives?

Yard operatives are workers responsible for maintaining the organization, safety, and efficiency of outdoor storage areas such as warehouses, distribution centers, or construction sites. Their duties typically include loading and unloading goods, operating machinery like forklifts, keeping the yard tidy, and ensuring materials are stored correctly. They play a vital role in the smooth movement of goods and materials, often collaborating with drivers, warehouse staff, and supervisors. The job may require physical labor, attention to detail, and adherence to health and safety guidelines.
Yard Operative jobs near you
Infographic showing various Yard Operative job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,352 per year, or $17 per hour.

Yard Laborer

American Recycling Holdings

Escalon, CA

$17 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a hardworking and reliable Yard Laborer to join our team. The Yard Laborer will be responsible for performing a variety of tasks related to yard operations, including but not limited to:
Responsibilities:
  • Assisting with loading and unloading of materials and equipment
  • Maintaining cleanliness and organization of the yard
  • Operating various yard equipment, such as forklifts and skid steers
  • Assisting with inventory management and tracking
  • Performing basic maintenance and repairs on yard equipment
  • Assisting with customer service and sales as needed
Qualifications and Skills:
  • Previous experience as a yard operations laborer or similar role
  • Ability to operate various yard equipment, such as forklifts and skid steers
  • Basic knowledge of inventory management and tracking
  • Ability to perform basic maintenance and repairs on yard equipment
  • Strong communication and customer service skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Physical ability to lift heavy objects and work in various weather conditions
  • High school diploma or equivalent

Apply