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Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Homer Companies

Wheel Loader Operator

Lockport, IL

$18 - $25/hr

Wheel Loader Operator Position : Wheel Loader Operator- Full Time Job Summary: The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for performing a variety of basic tasks using heavy equipment such as skid ...

Grit One

Be Seen First

Production & Heavy Machinery Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24 - $29.50/hr

Equipment Operated: * -Material Loader * -Heavy machinery * -Sennibogan * -Wheel Loader * -Pneumatic Hoppers * -Blending System * -Wheel Bobcat * -Other Hoppers * -Conveyors * -Field Unloader Who ...

NTN Bearing Corp.

Machine Operator

Elgin, IL · On-site

$19/hr

Operate CNC Machines used in the production of automotive wheel bearings Start up and shut down ... information May load and unload parts on machine Starting Wage: $19.00 We offer a 2nd shift ...

Combined Metals

Grinding Operator - 1st Shift

Elgin, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Responsible for wheel changes, correctly breaking down the machine, and setting up rolls to be ... Load and adjust the programs as needed for the proper finished product. * Consistently grind the OD ...

Elite Staffing

Grinder Operator

Carol Stream, IL

$18 - $22.50/hr

Grinder Operator The Grinder Operator will locate and stage material, and to produce quality ... wheels, using wrenches. Loads feed mechanism by lifting stock into position. Maintains safe ...

Pae

Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Reads and understands the manufacturer's operating manual for each piece of equipment before ... as articulating loaders, wheeled forklifts, snow/dirt moving and grooming equipment, etc.

Amentum Services, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Reads and understands the manufacturer's operating manual for each piece of equipment before ... as articulating loaders, wheeled forklifts, snow/dirt moving and grooming equipment, etc.

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All JobsEntry Level Wheel Loader Operator JobsEntry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$19

$26

How much do entry level wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level wheel loader operator in Chicago, IL is $19.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator job openings:
Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,664 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Wheel Loader Operator

Wheel Loader Operator

Homer Companies

Lockport, IL

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Wheel Loader Operator
Position: Wheel Loader Operator- Full Time
Job Summary: The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for performing a variety of basic tasks using heavy equipment such as skid steers and wheel loaders, as directed by your supervisor. The Wheel Loader Operator must possess the ability to safely operate equipment, ensuring the safety of all persons, equipment, and property. Responsible for adhering to all safety regulations and reporting any violations to the field supervision immediately.
Duties amp; Responsibilities:
  • Ability to operate wheel loader
  • Assist all other project site personnel with related activities when not operating equipment.
  • Maintain awareness of safety rules and procedures.
  • Perform routine equipment checks and maintenance
  • Load and unload equipment
  • Identify safety hazards and report to project supervisors.
  • Perform additional assignments at supervisor’s direction.
Qualifications amp; Skills:
  • OSHA familiarity/training
  • Clean driving record with no violations
  • Experience with operating skid steer and/or wheel loader
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds
  • Must be able to bend, stand, or sit for long periods of time
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment
  • Effective Communication with supervisors and coworkers
  • Working conditions sometimes include both high heat and cold temperatures
Benefits:
  • Starting pay is $18-25/hr
  • Pay is determined by experience, skill, education, and other factors
  • Able to enroll in benefits after 60-day new hire probation period
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan and employer matching (up to a certain amount) and 100% vesting as soon as contributions are made
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays (6)
Homer Companies is a second-generation, family-owned, full-service tree care company that provides unparalleled services throughout the Midwest. We are an EEO Employer that offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefit plan that includes medical, dental, vision, 401K retirement plan, short- and long-term disability, and life insurance. Homer Companies also offers vacation and holiday pay. A great work atmosphere with top pay!
Direct all questions regarding the Equipment Operator position to hr@homertree.com

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