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Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Kentucky

Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY ยท On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Purpose The Heavy Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work ... Operate heavy duty construction equipment, which includes wheel loaders, excavators, dozers, and ...

Purpose The Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work which ... Operate heavy duty construction equipment, which includes wheel loaders, excavators, dozers, and ...

Purpose The Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work which ... Operate heavy duty construction equipment, which includes wheel loaders, excavators, dozers, and ...

The Quarry Equipment Operator will primarily be operating a large wheel front-end loader and will be responsible for feeding material to the crushing plant, loading material in off road trucks and ...

... loaders, wheel loaders, off road dump trucks, and other equipment as required * Conduct pre-trip ... Operating the yard tractor on site to move and stage trailers as needed based on locations

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Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator information

How to become a wheel loader?

To become a wheel loader operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or a vocational program in heavy equipment operation. Many employers require certification from a recognized training program and a valid driver's license; experience with equipment controls and safety procedures is also important.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Entry level wheel loader operators typically do not earn $700 a day; such high daily pay is usually associated with experienced heavy equipment operators, specialized construction roles, or union positions that require certifications and extensive experience. These roles often involve working long hours, overtime, or in high-demand environments to reach that earning level.

How much do beginner operators make?

Entry-level wheel loader operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on location, company, and experience. Starting salaries may increase with certifications, such as OSHA or equipment-specific training, and familiarity with machinery and safety protocols.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job 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 knowledge of equipment operation, safety procedures, and physical fitness can improve job prospects for beginners.

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 Kentucky are hiring for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Equipment Operator

Equipment Operator

LPX Group

Louisville, KY โ€ข On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Purpose
The Heavy Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work which focuses on the operation of heavy equipment utilized in construction projects. We are hiring for jobs in the Northern Kentucky, Central Kentucky, Southern Indiana, and Greater Louisville area.
Job Responsibilities
  • Operate heavy duty construction equipment, which includes wheel loaders, excavators, dozers, and other pieces of equipment.
  • Perform servicing and maintenance of equipment as scheduled and required.
  • Perform maintenance of road such as cutting, sloping, and grading of shoulders and roadbeds.
  • Compact road areas and perform other types of road construction and maintenance operations.
  • Work on the flood control and maintenance such as clearing of mud and rocks from channels, and perform any other operations on flood control and maintenance.
  • Assist and perform solid waste disposal such as filling and packing to establish grade.
  • Direct maintenance staff members when necessary.
  • Perform duties responsibly and proficiently, following all company safety guidelines.

Education and Experience
  • 2+ years of experience operating a wheel loader, excavator, backhoe, dozer, or similar equipment required.

Skills and Specifications
  • Operate equipment with a high degree of competency, skill, and proficiency.
  • Knowledge of basic maintenance of operating equipment.
  • Ability to work independently and complete daily activities according to work schedule.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects, walk and stand for long periods of time, and perform strenuous physical labor under adverse field conditions.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills. Experience working effectively in a team environment.

The above description covers the principal duties and responsibilities of the job. The description shall not be constructed as a complete listing of all duties which may be required for this position.
An Equal Opportunity Employer
At LPX Group and our family of brands (Louisville Paving and Construction, Pace Contracting, Material Transfer, Bluegrass Testing and Bluegrass Blasting), we take pride in being an Equal Opportunity Employer and, as such, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment, development and promotion opportunities are decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.