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Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Grinding Operator - 1st Shift

Elgin, IL ยท 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 ...

Casual Loader

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$25.94/hr

R+L Carriers has an immediate need for Part-time Forklift Operators at our Wheeling, IL service center. As a Forklift Operator, you will be tasked with moving all different types of freight safely in ...

Casual Loader

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$25.94/hr

R+L Carriers has an immediate need for Part-time Forklift Operators at our Wheeling, IL service center. As a Forklift Operator, you will be tasked with moving all different types of freight safely in ...

Casual Loader

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$25.94/hr

R+L Carriers has an immediate need for Part-time Forklift Operators at our Wheeling, IL service center. As a Forklift Operator, you will be tasked with moving all different types of freight safely in ...

Grinder Operator

Carol Stream, IL ยท On-site

$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 ...

Grind Shop Operator - 2nd Shift

Elgin, IL ยท 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 ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 9, 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.

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 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:

Grinding Operator - 1st Shift

Combined Metals

Elgin, IL โ€ข On-site

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Combined Metals is a premier North American processor and specialty strip and wire distributor built through 50 years of growth and acquisition. Combined Metals is North America's largest independent processor and distributor of specialty strips and wire. Combined Metals has nine service centers supporting over 3,000 customers in the Aerospace, Defense, Nuclear, Medical, Petrochemical, Oil & Gas, Electrification, Automotive, and Consumer industries. Decades of quality and reliability have made Combined Metalsโ„ข a chosen source in performance applications.
Responsibilities:
  • Support and adhere to all plant safety policies and procedures at all times.
  • Prepare tooling by using machinery to grind, and polish according to customer and manufacturing needs.
  • Make set-ups and operate all controls on manual and/or CNC machines.
  • Responsible for wheel changes, correctly breaking down the machine, and setting up rolls to be grinded.
  • Do proper roll alignments.
  • Load and adjust the programs as needed for the proper finished product.
  • Consistently grind the OD of slitter knives, idlers, drivers, and lateral rolls with and without tappers
  • Have a mechanical aptitude to adjust feed and speeds, and consistently grind to tolerance.
  • Make minor repairs, change the grinding wheel, and balance wheels.
  • Maintain accurate records of all maintenance and production activities in the designated logbooks.
  • Assist in the preparation and inspection of bulk products, identifying and reporting defects such as deformation, discoloration, and misshaping.
  • Follow proper communication protocols with manufacturing, quality, and operations teams to address and escalate equipment or product issues promptly.
  • Troubleshoot basic equipment problems and make necessary adjustments to ensure smooth operations.
  • Operate various equipment, including heavy machinery, forklifts, overhead cranes, and general tools (wrenches, tape measures, hammers).
  • Monitor and maintain equipment oil levels, change coolants, adjust coolant levels, replace filter paper and filter bags, and empty sludge tanks as needed.
  • Participate in required training and certification programs to enhance skills and knowledge.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment by removing scrap, checking machines, and identifying potential hazards.
  • Conduct visual inspections of strip finishes to identify grind shop defects when necessary.
  • Train and mentor new operators, ensuring they are well-prepared for their roles.
  • Accurately use measuring tools such as micrometers, calipers, snap gauges, dial indicators, and surface testers for quality control.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be able to pass the company mechanical test.
  • Manufacturing experience preferred.
  • Sufficient ability to maintain records and reports.
  • Ability to read blueprints and use measuring instruments.
  • Working knowledge of measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.).
  • Understanding of production procedures.
  • Analytical skills.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Teamwork and communication skills.
  • Adherence to health and safety regulations (e.g., constant use of protective gear).
  • Mechanical aptitude.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.