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Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of wheel loaders on heavy civil and highway construction projects. This role supports earthwork, grading ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

What you will be doing The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of wheel loaders on heavy civil and highway construction projects. This role supports ...

S M Hentges and Sons, Inc.

Loader Operator

Jordan, MN · On-site

The Loader Operator is responsible for operating a wheel loader safely and efficiently to move materials, assist in trenching, and support the pipe crew in the installation of underground utilities ...

S M Hentges and Sons, Inc.

Loader Operator

Jordan, MN · On-site

$28.95 - $46.11/hr

The Loader Operator is responsible for operating a wheel loader safely and efficiently to move materials, assist in trenching, and support the pipe crew in the installation of underground utilities ...

Ruach Resources

Loader Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Job Summary The Loader Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating various front-end loaders (wheel loader) in a sand and gravel pit environment. This role supports daily production ...

Koppers

Loader Operator

Newsoms, VA

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Loader Operator works closely with all employees and has no supervisory responsibilities * Loading ... Perform daily maintenance and safety checks on wheel loader * Other work-related duties as required ...

Koppers, Inc.

Loader Operator

Newsoms, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Loader Operator works closely with all employees and has no supervisory responsibilities * Loading ... Perform daily maintenance and safety checks on wheel loader * Other work-related duties as required ...

Koppers Holdings

Loader Operator

Newsoms, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Loader Operator works closely with all employees and has no supervisory responsibilities * Loading ... Perform daily maintenance and safety checks on wheel loader * Other work-related duties as required ...

Koppers Holdings

Loader Operator

Kennedy, AL · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Loader Operator works closely with all employees and has no supervisory responsibilities * Loading ... Perform daily maintenance and safety checks on wheel loader * Follow all safety regulations and ...

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsEntry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs

Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator information

See salary details

$10

$18

$25

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

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level wheel loader operator in the United States is $18.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

More about Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs? The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs are:
Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,474 per year, or $19 per hour.
Loader Operator (1st Shift)

Loader Operator (1st Shift)

Armstrong Flooring, Inc.

Elkins, WV • On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago

Armstrong Flooring rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Loader Operator (1st Shift)

Job Category: Production

Shift: Day Shift

Location: 1644 Buckhannon Pike Coalton, WV 26257

Description

AHF Products has a job opportunity for a Log Loader/Lumber Forklift Operator to be located in Norton, WV. Reporting to the Mill Supervisor, the Loader Operator is responsible for handling logs in the lumber yard and operating machinery as needed.

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k

Job Duties

Qualified individuals must have the ability (with or without reasonable accommodation) to perform the following duties:

  • Load flatbed lumber trailers.
  • Unload and move lumber carts.
  • Sort and stack logs with a wheel loader.
  • Sort and stack lumber packs with a wheel loader or lumber lift.
  • Organize lumber yard and track loads coming off chain.
  • Perform any other work-related task deemed necessary by the mill management.
Job Qualifications
  • Must be able to successfully complete and pass a background check, employment verification and drug screening.
  • Positive and verifiable work history.
  • Previous experience in the wood manufacturing sector.
  • Log loader or lumber forklift experience.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects and perform physically demanding tasks when needed.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Excellent time management skills to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
Physical Demands

The demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

  • Push, pull, carry and lift 20 - 50lbs.
  • Frequent walking and sitting.
  • Regular stretching, bending, stooping, twisting, reaching, grasping and other such repetitive movements.
  • Must be able to communicate, hear, comprehend, and write in English.
  • Frequent exposure to dust.
  • Exposure to noise environment requiring hearing protection.
  • Must be able and willing to work in non-temperature-controlled environment, exposed to weather conditions.
Mental Demands

The demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

  • Work with a team.
  • Maintain regular and punctual attendance (consistent with ADA and/or FMLA).
  • Attention to detail.
  • Communicate effectively.
  • Multitask in a fast-paced environment.
  • Work with a sense of urgency.

AHF Products provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

What Armstrong Flooring employees say

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