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Front End Loader Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Martin Marietta

Plant Loader Operator

Denver, CO

$34.01/hr

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 ...

Martin Marietta

Plant Loader Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

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 ...

Martin Marietta

Plant Loader Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$34.01/hr

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 ...

Martin Marietta

Equipment Operator

Golden, CO

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Pit Loader Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of front-end loaders (typically ranging from CAT 982 to 992 sizes) within a quarry or aggregate facility. Your ...

Martin Marietta

Equipment Operator

Golden, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Pit Loader Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of front-end loaders (typically ranging from CAT 982 to 992 sizes) within a quarry or aggregate facility. Your ...

CRH

Loader Operator & Quality Control

Montrose, CO

$20 - $26/hr

... order and operated properly. * Prepares plant for operations at the beginning of each shift and ... Operates front end loader, skid steer, and other equipment as needed. * Performs plant maintenance ...

Martin Marietta Materials

Equipment Operator

Golden, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Safely operate heavy front-end loaders to charge plants with raw materials (sand, gravel, or stone ... Maintain proficiency in operating auxiliary equipment as needed, including haul trucks, water ...

Martin Marietta

Equipment Operator

Golden, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Safely operate heavy front-end loaders to charge plants with raw materials (sand, gravel, or stone ... Maintain proficiency in operating auxiliary equipment as needed, including haul trucks, water ...

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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 Jun 16, 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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A front end loader operator can earn around $10,000 a month with experience, especially in high-demand industries like construction or mining. These roles typically require specialized training, certifications, and operating heavy machinery, but often do not require a college degree.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Front End Loader Operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; their pay depends on experience, location, and project scope. High-paying construction or heavy equipment roles may reach such daily rates, especially for specialized or overtime work, but these are less common. Skilled operators with certifications and experience working on large projects or in remote areas can sometimes earn high daily wages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Front End Loader Operator, and why are they important?

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.

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

Operating a front-end loader requires training to understand controls, safety procedures, and proper handling techniques. While it can be physically demanding and requires coordination, most operators learn through hands-on experience and certification programs. Proficiency develops over time with practice and adherence to safety standards.

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.

What are Front End Loader Operators?

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 jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Front end loader operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually found in executive, specialized medical, or high-level corporate roles. Some highly experienced or owner-operator heavy equipment professionals in large construction or mining projects may approach high six-figure incomes, but reaching $500,000 is uncommon for this position. Earning this level often requires advanced skills, certifications, or ownership of business operations.
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Front End Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Front End Loader Operator job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,309 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Plant Loader Operator

Plant Loader Operator

Martin Marietta

Denver, CO

$34.01/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 hours ago

Martin Marietta Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 126 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

329th of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Equipment Operator II is a mid-level role responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy mobile equipment and stationary plant machinery essential to asphalt production. The Equipment Operator II is expected to possess a higher degree of technical proficiency, performing complex maneuvers and assisting in the mechanical troubleshooting of the plant.

The primary objective of this role is to manage raw material stockpiles, feed the plant 'cold bins' with precision to maintain mix integrity, and ensure the continuous flow of production. This individual serves as a critical link between the yard and the high-heat production environment, maintaining a commitment to Martin Marietta’s Guardian Angel safety culture.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Operate heavy front-end loaders (e.g., Cat 980 or 988 series) to feed cold feed bins
  • Organize and maintain stockpiles to prevent segregation and moisture buildup; manage the 'pushing up' of materials to maximize yard space.
  • Skillfully operate skid steers, water trucks for dust control, backhoes, and man-lifts as required for plant maintenance and site cleanliness.
  • Monitor and report on raw material quality (e.g., excessive moisture or oversized rock) before it enters the production stream.
  • Assist the Plant Operator in monitoring conveyor speeds, temperature gauges, and asphalt oil flow to ensure the final product meets DOT specifications.
  • identify and diagnose early signs of mechanical failure in conveyors, screens, and crushers. Perform minor field repairs such as replacing idlers, adjusting belt tracking, or clearing blockages.
  • Function as a relief or secondary operator for the scale house, weighing out trucks and generating load tickets using specialized plant software.
  • Perform daily 'walk-around' inspections and document fluid levels, tire pressures, and grease points.
  • Assist the maintenance crew during 'shutdowns' with tasks including liner replacements, baghouse filter changes, and welding/cutting (if certified).
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment by removing 'spill' buildup under conveyors and around the drum using shovels and skid steers.
  • Maintain strict compliance with OSHA regulations, including the proper use of PPE and Fall Protection.
  • Perform Pre-Shift Inspections (PSI). Identify and mitigate site hazards through the Near-Miss reporting system.
  • Monitor for oil leaks or spills and follow company protocols for containment and cleanup to protect the local environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

High school diploma, GED, or relevant experience

CDL Class A or B is significant plus

Work Experience

2 – 4 years of experience operating heavy equipment, specifically in an asphalt plant environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Mechanical aptitude

Computer literacy

Troubleshooting

Critical thinking

Safety focused (OSHA)

Regulatory compliance

Effective communication (written and spoken)

Time management

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Physical Requirements

You must be able to lift and carry up to 50–75 lbs regularly. This includes handling heavy tools, equipment parts, or materials.

Climb on and off large machinery frequently.

Walk across steep, rough, or uneven terrain.

Bend, stoop, squat, and reach into tight spaces for equipment inspections and minor repairs.

Climb stairs or ladders to heights up to 100 feet (for plant maintenance).

Travel

You are often required to travel between different plants or job sites.

All duties require outside assignments and require periods of work in all weather conditions, cold, wet, dry and dusty. Must be able to work in areas where noise levels are up to 85 dbs.

Union

We are excited to share the base hourly rate for this position is $34.01+. Membership with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local Union No, 9 is required upon hire. Condition and terms of employment and benefits are in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement.

What Martin Marietta Materials employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Martin Marietta

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Martin Marietta is an American-based company and a leading supplier of building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready mixed concrete and asphalt.

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1994

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