Heavy Equipment Operator – Front-End Loader & Excavator

Location: Lost Hills, CA
Pay Rate: $20.00–$28.00/hour (DOE)
Schedule: 1st & 2nd Shift | Up to 6 Days Per Week
Industry: Mining, Recycling & Industrial Processing
Employment Type: Temp-to-Hire

Job Summary

Key Staffing is seeking experienced operators ready to bring their skills to a busy industrial operation in Lost Hills, CA.

Qualified candidates must have hands-on experience operating BOTH front-end loaders and excavators in mining, recycling, aggregate processing, construction, agriculture, or similar industrial environments.

We are seeking dependable, safety-conscious operators who can work efficiently in a fast-paced, outdoor production environment. Candidates must be flexible to work 1st or 2nd shift, up to six days per week, including alternate shifts as operational needs arise.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate front-end loaders, excavators, and other heavy equipment to support mining, recycling, and material processing operations.

• Load, unload, transport, sort, and stockpile raw materials, recycled products, and bulk materials.

• Use front-end loaders to move and feed materials into hoppers, processing equipment, and designated areas.

• Operate excavators to dig, lift, move, sort, and position materials according to production needs.

• Maintain consistent material flow to support production efficiency and minimize downtime.

• Conduct daily equipment inspections, including fluid levels, tires/tracks, hydraulics, and overall operating condition.

• Identify and report equipment malfunctions, maintenance concerns, and safety hazards.

• Follow all safety regulations, operating procedures, and facility guidelines.

• Maintain awareness of surrounding personnel, machinery, vehicles, and potential hazards.

• Assist with material handling, equipment cleanup, and general facility housekeeping as needed.

• Communicate with supervisors, maintenance personnel, and fellow operators to coordinate daily operations.

• Meet production expectations while maintaining safe equipment operation.

• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Required: Previous hands-on experience operating front-end loaders and/or excavators.

• Experience in mining, recycling, aggregate processing, construction, agriculture, or heavy industrial operations preferred.

• Ability to safely maneuver heavy machinery in active production environments.

• Knowledge of equipment safety procedures, daily inspections, and basic preventive maintenance.

• Ability to recognize mechanical issues and report maintenance concerns.

• Strong situational awareness, attention to detail, and commitment to workplace safety.

• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions and work effectively with a team.

• Dependable attendance, punctuality, and strong work ethic.

• Reliable transportation to the Lost Hills facility.

• Must be available to work up to six days per week and demonstrate flexibility between 1st and 2nd shifts.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, dust, dirt, and noise.

• Ability to sit for extended periods while operating heavy machinery.

• Ability to safely and frequently climb into and out of equipment.

• Ability to perform repetitive hand, arm, and foot movements when operating machinery.

• Comfortable working around moving equipment, uneven terrain, and active industrial processing operations.

• Ability to wear required PPE and comply with facility safety standards.

• Ability to perform essential job functions, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Apply Today

Equal Employment Opportunity 

Key Staffing is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any legally protected status. 

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