Night shift jobs often pay more than day shift — sometimes $2-4 more per hour. Here are the best-paying overnight jobs you can get in Stockton, Modesto, and the 209.
Highest-Paying Night Shift Jobs
| Job | Night Pay | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| RN (Hospital) | $55-75/hr | RN License |
| LVN (Hospital) | $32-40/hr | LVN License |
| CNA (Hospital) | $22-28/hr | CNA Certification |
| Forklift Operator | $21-26/hr | Forklift Cert |
| Security (Armed) | $22-30/hr | Guard Card + Firearms |
| Security (Unarmed) | $18-22/hr | Guard Card |
| Warehouse Lead | $24-30/hr | 2+ years experience |
| Production Operator | $20-25/hr | None (training provided) |
Entry-Level Night Jobs That Pay Well
No certifications? These overnight jobs still pay above average:
- Amazon Night Shift: $19.50-22/hr (includes differential)
- FedEx Package Handler: $18-21/hr
- Retail Stocker (Target/Walmart): $17-20/hr
- Hotel Night Auditor: $17-20/hr (plus lots of downtime)
- Gas Station Overnight: $17-19/hr
Quick Wins for Higher Night Pay
- Get forklift certified — Adds $2-4/hr, takes one weekend
- Get your Guard Card — Opens $18-22/hr security jobs
- Go direct hire — Temps make $1-2/hr less
- Ask about weekend differential — Some places add $0.50-1/hr for Sat/Sun
The Math
Let's say you're choosing between a $17/hr day job and a $19/hr night job:
- Day shift: $17 × 40 hrs × 52 weeks = $35,360/year
- Night shift: $19 × 40 hrs × 52 weeks = $39,520/year
- Difference: $4,160/year for the same work
Add overtime (common in warehouses), and night shift easily clears $45-50K.
Built 209.works after watching Central Valley businesses overpay for hiring tools that don't work for them. Grew up in the Valley and wanted to create something that actually helps.
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