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Front End Loader Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Loader Operator - Durango, CO 1

Durango, CO · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview Elam Consttruction, a divison of Summit Materials, is looking for a mechanically inclined, safety-oriented Loader Operator to operate Front End loaders in our Durango, Colorado Aggregate Pit.

Asphalt Plant Loader Operator

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Position Overview Operates a front-end loader to ensure proper supply of materials to the asphalt ... Frequent sitting and operating heavy equipment/loader. * The employee is occasionally required to ...

Asphalt Plant Loader Operator

Grand Junction, CO

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Position Overview Operates a front-end loader to ensure proper supply of materials to the asphalt ... Frequent sitting and operating heavy equipment/loader. * The employee is occasionally required to ...

Equipment Operator

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

... , front-end loader, hydraulic excavators, backhoe, sideboom, trencher, skid steers, etc. • Work ... Operating construction equipment in road right of way with existing utilities and traffic. • ...

Asphalt Plant Loader Operator

Golden, CO · On-site

$34.01/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Equipment Operator II is expected to possess a higher degree of technical proficiency ... Operate heavy front-end loaders (e.g., Cat 980 or 988 series) to feed cold feed bins * Organize and ...

Asphalt Plant Loader Operator

Golden, CO · On-site

$34.01/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Equipment Operator II is expected to possess a higher degree of technical proficiency ... Operate heavy front-end loaders (e.g., Cat 980 or 988 series) to feed cold feed bins * Organize and ...

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Greeley, CO · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Greeley, CO · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Greeley, CO · On-site +1

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Greeley, CO · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor; * Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required; * Assures unit is never operated in an ...

Showing results 21-40

Front End Loader Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$11

$20

$29

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader operator in Colorado is $20.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a front end loader operator?

To thrive as a Front End Loader Operator, you need proficiency in operating heavy machinery, a high school diploma or GED, and often a valid equipment operator’s license or certification. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, basic mechanical maintenance, and safety protocols is essential, along with experience using loaders and related construction equipment. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication help operators work safely and efficiently within a team. These skills are vital to ensure safe operations, reduce accidents, and maintain productivity on construction or industrial sites.

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

AspectFront End Loader OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often preferred, OSHA safety trainingOSHA safety training, sometimes specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, agriculture, loading/unloadingConstruction sites, demolition, excavation projects
Employer & IndustryConstruction, mining, agricultureConstruction, demolition, infrastructure projects

Both roles require safety training and operate heavy machinery, but Front End Loader Operators primarily handle loading and moving materials with wheel loaders, while Excavator Operators operate hydraulic excavators for digging and trenching. The choice depends on the specific project needs and machinery used.

Is operating a front end loader easy?

Operating a front end loader requires training and practice to develop the necessary skills for safe and efficient operation. While the controls are straightforward, understanding load handling, safety procedures, and equipment maintenance is essential, making it a job that involves learning and experience rather than being inherently easy.

What is a front end loader operator?

Front End Loader Operators are skilled workers who operate heavy machinery known as front end loaders, which are used to lift, move, and transport materials like soil, gravel, sand, and debris on construction sites, quarries, and other work environments. These operators are responsible for safely maneuvering the equipment, performing routine maintenance, and ensuring efficient material handling. They play a crucial role in site preparation, earthmoving, and loading materials into trucks or other machinery. Safety awareness, equipment knowledge, and attention to detail are essential skills for this job.

What are some common challenges faced by front end loader operators on construction sites?

Front End Loader Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven spaces, and maintaining safety while operating heavy equipment around other workers and machinery. Effective communication with site supervisors and fellow operators is crucial to ensure smooth coordination and to prevent accidents. Additionally, operators are expected to perform regular equipment checks and basic maintenance to minimize downtime and extend the life of the loader.

What are the most commonly searched types of Front End Loader Operator jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Front End Loader Operator jobs in Colorado are:

What job categories do people searching Front End Loader Operator jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Front End Loader Operator jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Front End Loader Operator jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Front End Loader Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Front End Loader Operator jobs in CO?

For Front End Loader Operator jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Front End Loader Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,309 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Loader Operator - Durango, CO 1

Summit Materials

Durango, CO • On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Summit Materials rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
Elam Consttruction, a divison of Summit Materials, is looking for a mechanically inclined, safety-oriented Loader Operator to operate Front End loaders in our Durango, Colorado Aggregate Pit. As a member of your team, the success of this operation is very dependent on your willingness and desire to be a team player. Seek for opportunities to make your co-workers successful. They will also be seeking for opportunities to make you successful.
Roles and Responsibilites
  • Operate equipment to assist with the daily production and operations of the plant.
  • Assist plant supervisor with the daily operations and upkeep of the plant.
  • Ability to inspect all areas of the plant to perform belt repairs, screen changes, bearing replacements and other necessary maintenance.
  • Perform welding and fabrication duties as needed.
  • Detect safety hazards and equipment malfunctions and respond accordingly.
  • Must be able to work evenings and weekends when necessary.
  • Perform other job duties as assigned.

Skills and Qualifications
  • Proficiency in operating a diverse range of large aggregate heavy machinery, including excavators, bulldozers, and loaders.
  • Knowledge of welding and general mechanics preferred.
  • Ability to adapt to evolving project requirements, operational strategies, and safety regulations, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
  • Deep understanding of MSHA Regulations.
  • High school education or GED equivalent.

Benefits
Recession Resistant Industry
Year-Round Work
Overtime Available
Paid Holidays
Paid Time Off / Vacation Pay
401(k) Retirement Plan w/ 100% employer match up to 4% contribution
Medical Insurance - United Health Care
Vision Insurance
Dental Insurance
Life Insurance - Company Paid
Short-Term / Long-Term Disability Insurance - Company Paid
Get Hired: What To Expect During Our Hiring Process
  • Background Check
  • Motor Vehicle Record Check
  • DOT 5-Panel Drug Screen
  • Fit for Duty Baseline Physical
  • Paid Orientation
  • A great team to support you throughout your career with Summit Materials companies!

Req #: 2272

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