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Front End Loader Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SA Recycling

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

As a Front-End Loader Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of wheel loaders at a metals recycling center. Duties include loading and moving material and debris ...

SA Recycling

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

As a Front-End Loader Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of wheel loaders at a metals recycling center. Duties include loading and moving material and debris ...

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

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader driver in the United States is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.36 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 are Front End Loader Drivers?

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.

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.

How hard is it to drive a front-end loader?

Driving a front-end loader requires operating heavy machinery with controls for lifting, tilting, and steering, which can be challenging for beginners. It demands good hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and often some training or certification to operate safely and efficiently in construction or industrial environments.

What license do you need to drive a front loader?

To operate a front end loader as a heavy equipment operator, you typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or a specialized heavy equipment operator license, depending on local regulations. Employers may also require certification in equipment operation and safety training. Licensing requirements can vary by region and job site regulations.

What is the highest paying heavy equipment operator?

The highest paying heavy equipment operators are often those who specialize in operating large machinery like cranes, bulldozers, or excavators, especially in industries such as oil and gas, mining, or construction. Certifications, experience, and working in high-demand regions can significantly increase earning potential for front end loader drivers and other heavy equipment operators.

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.

How much does a front-end loader driver earn?

A front-end loader driver typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment may earn higher wages and additional benefits.
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Front End Loader Driver jobs near you
Front-End Loader Operator

Front-End Loader Operator

SA Recycling

Massillon, OH • On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

SA Recycling rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 72 rated recycling and waste

Job description

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a dependable and experienced individual to join our team as a Front-End Loader (Wheel Loader) Operator, specifically a Volvo H180S, or similar models. As a Front-End Loader Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of wheel loaders at a metals recycling center. Duties include loading and moving material and debris, organizing work areas, maintaining equipment, and supporting yard operations.
This position will work outside in varying weather conditions, and SA Recycling strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.
This is a rotating schedule working 4 days on, 2 days off from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
SA Recycling offers:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Eligible for Safety and Performance Bonuses
  • Comprehensive benefits including affordable medical options, dental and vision care
  • 401k with a Company Match
  • Growth opportunities and promotions from within
  • Weekly Pay
  • Referral Incentives
  • Company provided uniforms and PPE
Responsibilities of a Front-End Loader Operator
  • Preform pre- and post- operations inspections of assigned equipment according to Company policy to ensure windows, lights, mirrors, review cameras, and safety features are clean and operable.
  • Continuously check the condition of the equipment to ensure it is always operationally ready to minimize production downtime.
  • Determine load weights and verify against lifting abilities to prevent overloads and dangerous situations.
  • Safe and efficient operations of the assigned machine to move vehicles for decommissioning, debris to proper storage site, and the loading of trucks and/or train cars.
  • Aid in yard organization to help meet targeted production goals.
  • Preform routine maintenance functions of assigned machine (fueling, lubricating, and cleaning).
  • Perform daily loader inspections and report any concerns, defects or needed repairs to supervisor.
  • Comply with all applicable federal, state, local, & SA Recycling safety, health, & environmental rules, regulations, policies, & procedures.
Qualifications of a Front-End Loader Operator
  • High School diploma, GED Certification, or equivalent work experience.
  • 1-year experience running a Front-End Loader; operations in the scrap metal, mining, or construction industries preferred.
  • Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) a plus.
  • Ability to follow instructions provided in written or oral form.
  • Ability to learn new tasks as assigned required.

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.
An offer of employment by SA Recycling is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen, physical exam, and background check with a credit check (if position specified).
All US applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
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.

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