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Yard Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

D.P. Nicoli, Inc.

Yard Operator

San Jose, CA

$25 - $28/hr

D.P. Nicoli is looking for a Yard Operator to join our team in San Jose! Each day in this role brings new challenges and opportunities -- from operating equipment and managing materials to ...

DP Nicoli Inc

Yard Operator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Nicoli is looking for a Yard Operator to join our team in San Jose! Each day in this role brings new challenges and opportunities - from operating equipment and managing materials to maintaining ...

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 ...

Vehicle Management Solutions

Yard Attendant

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$18/hr

We are seeking a motivated and dependable individual to join our team as an overnight Yard Operator/Assistant for our company. The primary responsibility of this role is to efficiently manage and ...

Vehicle Management Solutions

Yard Attendant

Van Nuys, CA · On-site

$18/hr

We are seeking a motivated and dependable individual to join our team as an overnight Yard Operator/Assistant for our company. The primary responsibility of this role is to efficiently manage and ...

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 ...

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 ...

American Recycling Holdings

Yard Laborer

Modesto, 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Blackrock Logistics Inc

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA

$25 - $28/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Blackrock Logistics Inc

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA

$25 - $28/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

TEC Group

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $27.75/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

TEC Group

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $27.75/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Blackrock Logistics Inc

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

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All JobsYard Operator JobsYard Operator Jobs in California

Yard Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$24

How much do yard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard operator in California is $20.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a yard operator?

A Yard Operator is responsible for managing the movement, storage, and organization of materials, vehicles, or equipment within a facility's yard or storage area. They typically operate heavy machinery such as forklifts, cranes, or yard trucks to load, unload, and relocate items safely and efficiently. Yard Operators also inspect equipment, maintain inventory records, and ensure compliance with safety protocols. This role is essential in industries like logistics, shipping, construction, and manufacturing, where efficient yard management directly impacts overall operations.

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

To thrive as a Yard Operator, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, strong mechanical aptitude, and experience with material handling or heavy equipment operation. Familiarity with forklifts, cranes, inventory management systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure operational efficiency, workplace safety, and accurate material handling within busy yard environments.

What are some common challenges yard operators face, and how can they be managed?

Yard Operators often work in fast-paced environments where managing multiple tasks—such as coordinating vehicle movements, ensuring safety protocols, and handling weather-related complications—can be challenging. Effective communication with dispatchers, drivers, and warehouse staff is essential for smooth operations. Staying organized, maintaining attention to detail, and adhering strictly to safety guidelines help manage these challenges and contribute to an efficient yard operation.

What is the difference between Yard Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectYard OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and safety certificationsRequires similar certifications, often including specific equipment licenses
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly outdoors in yards, warehouses, or storage facilitiesOperates machinery outdoors or on construction sites
Industry UsageCommon in logistics, shipping, and warehousing industriesCommon in construction, mining, and heavy industry
Job FocusManaging yard activities, organizing shipments, and equipment movementOperating heavy machinery like forklifts, bulldozers, or cranes

While both Yard Operators and Equipment Operators work outdoors and require safety certifications, Yard Operators focus on managing yard activities and logistics, whereas Equipment Operators specialize in operating heavy machinery. The roles often overlap in industries like logistics and construction, but their primary responsibilities differ.

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

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

Yard Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Yard Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,118 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Yard Operator

D.P. Nicoli, Inc.

San Jose, CA

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 hours ago

Job description

D.P. Nicoli is looking for a Yard Operator to join our team in San Jose! Each day in this role brings new challenges and opportunities — from operating equipment and managing materials to maintaining safety and supporting yard operations. The ideal candidate is a hands-on, safety-minded individual who thrives in a dynamic work environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate yard equipment, including forklifts and other material-handling machinery.
  • Load and unload shoring and construction equipment for rental or transport.
  • Manage inventory and organize yard materials efficiently.
  • Maintain a clean and safe yard environment while adhering to all company and governmental safety regulations.
  • Perform general yard maintenance and assist coworkers as needed.
  • Depending on experience and CDL qualifications, may drive company vehicles for deliveries or equipment transport.

Qualifications:

  • Previous experience in yard operations or a related field preferred.
  • Willingness to obtain CDL license through company-sponsored training.
  • Proven ability to operate forklifts and other heavy machinery safely.
  • Physical stamina and ability to work in a fast-paced, outdoor environment.
  • Strong teamwork, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Operation of company vehicles and yard equipment is an essential function of this position.  Employees must maintain a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record in accordance with company policy and insurer requirements

Our Comprehensive Benefits & Perks

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): Become an owner in the company you help build and secure your financial future.
  • Generous Paid Time Off: Enjoy 2 weeks of paid vacation, 5 paid sick days, and 10 paid holidays, including your birthday!
  • Employer-Paid Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision benefits are covered by the company for the employe
  • Annual Bonus Program: Share in the company's success with an annual bonus.
  • Additional Benefits: 401(k) with company match, disability, and life insurance.
  • Company Provided Apparel: Receive D.P. Nicoli shirts, jackets, and sweatshirts.

Logistics and Details

  • Trucking Driver Type: Company Driver
  • Home Time: Home Daily
  • Route: Local
  • Work Location: In person

We Are 100% Employee Owned

We are experts in the field of underground excavating, shoring supply and training.

D.P. Nicoli, Inc has become a leader in the shoring market by building long-lasting relationships with our customers, supplying the best products for their jobsite safety. To achieve this goal, we hire and train the best possible employees. We look at ourselves as partners with our customers.

DPN has strategically established offices located in Woodinville, Seattle, Lakewood, and Spokane, WA; Wilsonville, OR; Boise, ID; and San Jose, South San Francisco, Bay Point, CA, and Salt Lake City, UT.

We play more, we pay more, and our employees stay more! D.P. Nicoli is a employee-owned company. Become an owner of the company you work for and secure your economic future. We are looking for 'Right Fit' candidates that want to work for a company that combines energy, humor, competitiveness and the financial strength to continue growing. We hire people with a strong sense of integrity and team that think on their feet, are quick-witted, passionate and want to have a long career with a private 40-year-old company.

Pay $25-$28/HR

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