2

Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... wheels; knowledge of equipment and their uses; basic mathematical skills * Ability to work ...

The Palletizer, Bagger, Entry Level Equipment Operator roles serve a key function in the operation ... Operating automatic bulk packing machinery to load/unload various size can onto pallets * Removing ...

Bagger Operator- 2nd Shift

Dubuque, IA

$15.75 - $19/hr

The Palletizer, Bagger, Entry Level Equipment Operator roles serve a key function in the operation ... Operating automatic bulk packing machinery to load/unload various size can onto pallets * Removing ...

The Palletizer, Bagger, Entry Level Equipment Operator roles serve a key function in the operation ... Operating automatic bulk packing machinery to load/unload various size can onto pallets * Removing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator information

How much do loader operators make a year?

Entry level wheel loader operators typically earn between $35,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. With additional certifications and skills, such as operating different machinery or working in specialized environments, wages can increase.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Entry level wheel loader operator roles typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with highly experienced or specialized positions, often in construction, mining, or heavy equipment contracting. These roles may require certifications, extensive experience, or working in remote or high-demand environments, and pay can vary based on project scope and location.

Do you have to be certified to run a loader?

Entry level wheel loader operators typically do not need formal certification to operate loaders, but many employers prefer or require OSHA-compliant training and a valid driver's license. Certification may be required for certain specialized or commercial roles, and safety training is essential for all operators. Regulations can vary by state or company policies.

Can you be a machine operator with no experience?

Entry level wheel loader operator positions often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may need to complete on-the-job training or certification programs. Having basic knowledge of safety procedures and equipment operation can improve job prospects, but employers often provide training for new operators.

What is the difference between Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectEntry Level Wheel Loader OperatorEquipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, material handlingConstruction, industrial, mining, and transportation settings
Job DutiesOperate wheel loaders for loading, moving materialsOperate various heavy machinery including loaders, excavators

Both roles require safety certifications and involve working in construction or industrial environments. The main difference is that an Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator specializes in operating wheel loaders specifically, while an Equipment Operator may handle a variety of heavy machinery. The choice depends on the specific equipment and tasks involved in the job.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Operator Journeyman

Operator Journeyman

Mortenson

Cedar Rapids, IA

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Mortenson rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Operator Journeyman 

SUMMARY  

Mortenson is currently seeking an Operator Journeyman that will be responsible for operating heavy equipment as directed and specified while adhering to all rules and regulations as mandated by Mortenson safety policies and procedures. 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid-steer, boom lifts/aerial lifts, and roller 
  • Follow prescribed safety regulations and maintain clear and orderly housekeeping 
  • Perform routine maintenance, observe equipment operation, and detect malfunctions 
  • Follow work plans and pre-task cards; provide leadership by displaying resourcefulness, work habits, and problem-solving skills 
  • Build relationships with diverse backgrounds and organizational levels 
  • Perform all other duties as assigned 

QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Equipment certifications as required 
  • Minimum one (1) year of related experience 
  • Current driver’s license with proper classification including endorsements as required by law 
  • Strong teamwork orientation, positive attitude, professional customer service skills, and detail-oriented; ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals 
  • Ability to operate equipment by moving levers, shifting gears, depressing pedals, and maneuvering steering wheels; knowledge of equipment and their uses; basic mathematical skills 
  • Ability to work independently with active listening and effective communication skills, open to diverse input and feedback 
  • Repetitive hand, arm, leg movements 
  • *Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling: up to 50 lbs 
  • Please note: this position description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position. The duties and responsibilities of this position may change without notice. 

*Lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling over 50 lbs will be done with assistance of another team member or equipment. 

Please make note:  

  • Visa sponsorship is not offered for this position.  
  • Our postings are typically open a minimum of 5 days and an average of 44 days.  

ABOUT MORTENSON 

As a top builder, developer, and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction), our expertise spans markets like sports, renewable energy, data centers, healthcare, and more. We are builders at heart, working to ensure the built environment has a lasting positive impact.  

Let’s Redefine Possible®  

Equal Employment Opportunity 

Your uniqueness brings new and creative perspectives to the team. Mortenson is committed to providing equal opportunities of employment (EOE) to all individuals, regardless of your race, religion, gender, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, marital status or any other legally protected category. 

Other Items to Note 

  • Mortenson reserves the right to hire any individual without legal or financial obligation on unwanted solicitations. No agency emails, calls, or solicitations are accepted without a valid agreement. 
  • Must be currently legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status, 0-1, TN, CPT, OPT, etc.). We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time. 

What Mortenson employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


M. A. Mortenson logo

About M. A. Mortenson

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

M. A. Mortenson is a prominent name in the construction industry, based out of Minneapolis, MN, US. Established in 1954 by M.A. Mortenson Sr., the company has over six decades of experience offering construction services that have contributed to building lasting infrastructures across various sectors, including healthcare, energy, corporate, and sports. Mortenson has proven its exceptional expertise through a range of complex building and facility projects across the US fulfilling the customer's specifications and exceeding their expectations. Moreover, the company's core values are outlined as ‘Do the Right Thing’, ‘We Before I’, ‘Inspire What’s Possible’, and ‘In it for the long haul’.

Industry

Manufacturing and construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Social media