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Front End Loader Driver Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The Loader/Driver utilizes a variety of heavy equipment including tractor, scraper, dozers, excavators, front-end loader, 40-ton haul truck grader and back hoes at the mine. This position is ...

The Loader/Driver utilizes a variety of heavy equipment including tractor, scraper, dozers, excavators, front-end loader, 40-ton haul truck grader and back hoes at the mine. This position is ...

The Loader/Driver utilizes a variety of heavy equipment including tractor, scraper, dozers, excavators, front-end loader, 40-ton haul truck grader and back hoes at the mine. This position is ...

The Loader/Driver utilizes a variety of heavy equipment including tractor, scraper, dozers, excavators, front-end loader, 40-ton haul truck grader and back hoes at the mine. This position is ...

Loader

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$20.30/hr

The Loader is responsible for ensuring all outgoing orders are accounted for, audited and loaded into the trailer in a safe, secure and accurate manner. * Read work orders to confirm customer ...

Loader

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$20.30/hr

The Loader is responsible for ensuring all outgoing orders are accounted for, audited and loaded into the trailer in a safe, secure and accurate manner. * Read work orders to confirm customer ...

Loader

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$20.30/hr

The Loader is responsible for ensuring all outgoing orders are accounted for, audited and loaded into the trailer in a safe, secure and accurate manner. * Read work orders to confirm customer ...

Loader

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$22/hr

A warehouse loader is responsible for ensuring our products are moved within the warehouse in a ... Must possess a valid Driver's License and have an acceptable driving record (no major driving ...

Loader

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$22/hr

A warehouse loader is responsible for ensuring our products are moved within the warehouse in a ... Must possess a valid Driver's License and have an acceptable driving record (no major driving ...

The Loader is responsible for ensuring all outgoing orders are accounted for, audited and loaded into the trailer in a safe, secure and accurate manner. * Read work orders to confirm customer ...

A warehouse loader is responsible for ensuring our products are moved within the warehouse in a ... Must possess a valid Driver's License and have an acceptable driving record (no major driving ...

Loader Operator

Clinton, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Position Details An opening currently exists for 1st and 2nd shift Loaders in our Clinton, IL facility. In this role, you will be responsible for fulfilling orders, preparing them for delivery and ...

Loader Operator

Clinton, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

Position Details An opening currently exists for 1st and 2nd shift Loaders in our Clinton, IL facility. In this role, you will be responsible for fulfilling orders, preparing them for delivery and ...

Loader Operator

Clinton, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Position Details An opening currently exists for 1st and 2nd shift Loaders in our Clinton, IL facility. In this role, you will be responsible for fulfilling orders, preparing them for delivery and ...

Load trucks, trailers, and containers using forklifts, pallet jacks, or by hand * Verify outgoing shipments against documentation (bills of lading, invoices, packing slips) * Properly stack, secure ...

Loader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Load trucks, trailers, and containers using forklifts, pallet jacks, or by hand * Verify outgoing shipments against documentation (bills of lading, invoices, packing slips) * Properly stack, secure ...

Loader Operator I

Lincoln, IL

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions. IAA Holdings, LLC (IAA) IAA ...

Loader Community Values: The W.I.N. Philosophy W - Wow the Customer: Exceed expectations with exceptional service, building loyalty and creating LoadUp ambassadors. I - Integrity in Action: Act with ...

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Front End Loader Driver information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do front end loader driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader driver in Illinois is $19.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges front end loader drivers face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Front End Loader Drivers often encounter challenges such as operating machinery in tight or uneven spaces, managing varying weather conditions, and maintaining safety on busy worksites. These challenges can be addressed through ongoing safety training, clear communication with team members, and regular equipment inspections. Staying attentive and following established protocols helps minimize risks and ensures smooth operations. Collaboration with site supervisors and other operators is also crucial for efficient workflow.

What is a front end loader driver?

Front End Loader Drivers are skilled operators who use heavy machinery known as front end loaders to move and load materials such as soil, gravel, sand, and debris on construction sites, mines, and other work areas. Their primary responsibilities include operating the loader safely, performing routine maintenance checks, and ensuring materials are moved efficiently according to site plans. These drivers play a crucial role in site preparation, material handling, and cleanup operations. They must be knowledgeable about equipment safety protocols and often require specific licenses or certifications to operate heavy machinery. Good hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, and adherence to safety regulations are essential in this role.

How much does a front end loader driver make?

A front end loader driver typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry. Experienced operators with certifications may earn higher wages, especially in construction or mining environments.

What is the difference between Front End Loader Driver vs Excavator Operator?

AspectFront End Loader DriverExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often required, equipment-specific trainingOperator certification or license, equipment-specific training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, loading docks, mining operationsConstruction sites, excavation projects, demolition sites
Industry UsageHeavy construction, mining, agricultureHeavy construction, infrastructure, demolition

Both roles involve operating heavy machinery in construction and industrial settings. While a Front End Loader Driver primarily handles loaders for loading and moving materials, an Excavator Operator specializes in operating excavators for digging and trenching. Both require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but their equipment and specific tasks differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a front end loader driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Front End Loader Driver, you need strong equipment operation skills, knowledge of safety regulations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a relevant operator’s license or certification. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, maintenance procedures, and standard construction site protocols is essential. Attention to detail, communication, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of heavy machinery, which is critical for productivity and workplace safety.

Is a front end loader hard to operate?

Front end loader drivers need to learn how to operate the equipment safely and efficiently, which involves understanding controls, load handling, and safety procedures. While it requires training and practice, many find it manageable with proper instruction and experience.

What license do you need to drive a front end loader?

To operate a front end loader as a front end loader driver, you typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or a specialized equipment operator certification, depending on local regulations and the work environment. Employers may also require training on specific machinery and safety protocols before employment.

What does a front end loader driver do?

As a front-end loader driver, your job is to operate a large, tractor-like machine that scoops materials into a bucket and haul them to other locations. In this role, you may help fill containers with waste, move recyclables to the correct processing areas, scoop up dirt or other small materials, and coordinate with other staff members. Some details of this job vary based on your employer and the materials you move. For example, a front-end loader driver may help load and unload train cars, or help excavate worksites and prepare them for construction.

What are popular job titles related to Front End Loader Driver jobs in IL?

For Front End Loader Driver jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Front End Loader Driver job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,912 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Haul Truck Driver

odc

Mounds, IL • On-site

$30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Description                                                                    

Job Title:    Haul Truck Driver 

Location:      MD  

Department: Hauling 

Reports To:  Processing Supervisor/ Plant Manager 

Hours: 7A - 3P

Job Overview:   

The Loader/Driver utilizes a variety of heavy equipment including tractor, scraper, dozers, excavators, front-end loader, 40-ton haul truck grader and back hoes at the mine. This position is responsible for ensuring the clay is transported from the mine to the plant in a safe manner obeying all rules and regulations set forth by the Department of Transportation including maintaining a current valid Class A license with a manual endorsement .   

Responsibilities: 

  • Mines raw material at pit using heavy equipment such as those listed above in a safe manner. 
  • Ensures proper quality of clay mined. 
  • Records quantity of material mined as well as the hours of operation of the equipment. 
  • Hauls ore from pit to plant. 
  • Hauls waste back to the pit and maintains dust pit area for haul trucks to dump waste. 
  • Maintains roads and berms to ensure adequate height and ensure roads are clear of obstruction. 
  • Utilizes hand tools to make miner equipment adjustments. 
  • Keeps areas clean and free of clutter.  Obey all Company, State and Federal safety policies, rules and regulations 
  • Inform appropriate personnel of any abnormal conditions, defects, changes made in machines, and/or job procedures or conditions. 
  • Completes Pre-Shift and workplace examination checklists and ensures areas that need repair are reported to appropriate personnel.  Files daily Workplace Examinations and inspection forms properly. 
  • Must be able to work independently with limited supervision. 
  • Uses water truck/sprinklers for dust control as necessary. 
  • Ability to read mining maps as necessary. 
  •  
  • Must act in accordance with WE CARE, participates in improvement activities. 
  • Maintain security of the mine by securing the mine from trespassers and directing the contractors to adhere to the safety rules and regulations set forth by MSHA and Oil-Dri. 
  • Other actions as needed to satisfy company goals, process, and procedures to uphold values inherent to Oil-Dri. 
  • Performs other related duties as assigned 

Qualifications:  

Education:  

  • HS Diploma or equivalent required. 
  • 2-3 years driving and heavy equipment operation. 
  • Clean DMV (Must provide print-out). 
  • Class A Driver’s license with a manual endorsement 

Skills & Abilities: 

  • Basic mechanical knowledge. 
  • Knowledge of hand tools. 
  • Ability to work in a safe manner. 
  • Must be able to pass the Essential Job Function Exam set up during the employment offer period. 
  • Must meet assessment requirements.  Pass the pre-employment tests at required results.  (WPT, Quantitative, Verbal, BMCT) 
  • Must be able to read, comprehend, and act on product specifications, SOP’s (Standard Operating Procedures), PWI (Process Work Instructions), AIQ processes, and similar documents. 
  • Receive and pass training, and operate equipment associated with the mine, (i.e., dozers, scrapers, excavators, water truck, haul truck, front-end loader, tractor grader). 
  • Maintenance background helpful, to work with Plant Maintenance personnel to learn maintenance skills. 
  • Demonstrated ability to perform detail-oriented work. 
  • Basic math skills.  
  • Good communication skills. Demonstrated ability to read and write the English language. 
  • Ability to safely operate trucks and heavy equipment. 
  • Physical endurance to withstand operation of geared equipment and to withstand heavy physical labor required. 
  • Ability to walk and work on uneven, rocky or sloped terrain. 
  • Ability to climb ladders, stairs, and inclines while carrying tools. 
  • Must be able to carry/lift 50 pounds frequently. 
  • Must be able to hear radio communications. 
  • Must be able to function in the required role while wearing appropriate PPE including, but not limited to: Safety glasses, hearing protection, dust mask, protective coveralls, and other as may be required by a hot/cold, dusty, load industrial environment.

Pay Rate: $30+ (varying wage range)