Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Topeka, KS

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator ($24-26/hour)

Shift: 1st Shift 7:30AM-4:30PM (Monday-Friday with likely overtime on the weekends, working 60+ hours per week)

Job Description

The equipment operator will play a crucial role in leading the operation of equipment at our St. Mary's, Kansas location within the Westar Energy plant confines. This role supports daily operations by managing the on-site landfill, taking gypsum from the plant for company usage, and working closely with plant leadership to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the operation of equipment such as dump or water trucks, wheeled loaders, and skid steers.
• Perform routine equipment start-up, operation, shutdown, and changeovers in accordance with plant procedures.
• Conduct general housekeeping duties to maintain a clean and safe operating environment.
• Adhere to all company safety procedures and regulatory requirements, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Identify equipment issues and perform basic troubleshooting; escalate maintenance concerns to supervisors or maintenance personnel as needed.
• Support preventive maintenance activities and assist with plant repairs when appropriate.
• Collaborate with plant leadership and team members to meet production goals and maintain efficient operations.
• Participate in safety meetings, training programs, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency in operating heavy equipment, including skid steers, dump trucks, and wheeled loaders.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.
• Strong attention to safety, quality, and operational procedures.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and maintain accurate records.
• Capability to work independently as well as part of a small operations team.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience in manufacturing, production, agriculture, fertilizer, or industrial processing environments preferred.
• Willingness to work flexible schedules, including occasional overtime during peak production seasons.
• Physical ability to stand, walk, bend, and climb stairs or ladders for extended periods.
• Comfort working in an industrial manufacturing environment with dust, noise, and varying temperatures.

Why Work Here?

We offer a competitive hourly wage proportionate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, life, disability, and vision insurance. Enjoy a 401(k) with company match and professional development opportunities.

Work Environment

This role involves working in the elements of weather within an industrial manufacturing environment, which may include exposure to dust, noise, and varying temperatures. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Saint Marys, KS.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $26.50/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Saint Marys,KS.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 6, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.