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Front End Loader Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Henningsen Construction Inc

Loader Operator

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Loader Operator Atlantic, IA 50022 Company Info Henningsen Const. Inc is a street and highway construction firm and a pre-engineered building construction firm that offers a challenging and rewarding ...

Osage Cooperative Elevator

Seasonal Help

Osage, IA · On-site

$12.25 - $14.75/hr

Openings include Front-End loader operator for our dry plant, hopper bottom driver, or dry fertilizer tender driver. Experience driving semi-trucks or front-end loaders is required. This is a ...

Henningsen Construction, Inc.

Loader Operator

Atlantic, IA

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Henningsen Const., Inc. is seeking a motivated loader operator for our portable asphalt plant. Most work consists of working at the Asphalt Plants stockpiling materials. Some heavy lifting is ...

Henningsen Construction, Inc.

Loader Operator

Atlantic, IA

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Henningsen Const., Inc. is seeking a motivated loader operator for our portable asphalt plant. Most work consists of working at the Asphalt Plants stockpiling materials. Some heavy lifting is ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Davenport, IA

$19.75 - $25.75/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 ...

ENSTRUCTURE LLC

Equipment Operator

Buffalo, IA · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Pushing up product QUALIFICATIONS: 3+ years of heavy equipment experience such as front end loader ... Minimum 1-3 years' experience operating heavy equipment including: front-end loader , bulldozer ...

BARD Materials

Aggregate Production Operator I

Dubuque, IA

$15.75 - $19/hr

Operate a front-end loader to load aggregate materials into trucks, hoppers, and stockpiles as ... Prior experience operating a front-end loader or similar heavy equipment preferred * Previous ...

BARD Materials

Aggregate Production Operator I

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Operate a front-end loader to load aggregate materials into trucks, hoppers, and stockpiles as ... Prior experience operating a front-end loader or similar heavy equipment preferred * Previous ...

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All JobsFront End Loader Operator JobsFront End Loader Operator Jobs in Iowa

Front End Loader Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$18

$26

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader operator in Iowa is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $21.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

How much does a front end loader operator make?

A front end loader operator's average salary varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $15 to $25 per hour, with annual earnings between $30,000 and $50,000. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages and may receive benefits such as overtime pay and health insurance.

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.

Is operating a front end loader easy?

Operating a front end loader requires training to develop skills in controlling heavy machinery, understanding safety protocols, and performing precise movements. While some individuals may find it straightforward with practice, it generally involves learning to handle the equipment safely and efficiently, often through certification programs. Experience and familiarity with controls and load management are key to becoming proficient.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Front End Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Front End Loader Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,686 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Loader Operator for Asphalt Plant Operations

Western Engineering Co Inc

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Western Engineering Co., Inc. is seeking a dependable and safety-focused Asphalt Plant Loader Operator to join our team. This position is responsible for operating a front-end loader to maintain a steady supply of aggregates to the asphalt plant, managing stockpiles, loading trucks when needed, and performing routine equipment maintenance. The ideal candidate takes pride in operating equipment safely and efficiently while supporting plant production and quality.

Responsibilities
  • Operate a front-end loader to feed aggregate bins and maintain continuous plant production.
  • Manage and organize aggregate stockpiles to prevent contamination and maximize efficiency.
  • Load customer and company trucks with aggregate materials as required.
  • Perform daily pre- and post-operation inspections of equipment.
  • Monitor loader performance and report maintenance or repair needs promptly.
  • Maintain clean and safe work areas around the asphalt plant.
  • Assist with routine plant maintenance, housekeeping, and general labor as needed.
  • Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and environmental requirements.
  • Communicate effectively with plant operators, truck drivers, mechanics, and supervisors.
  • Work extended hours, weekends, and overtime during peak construction season as needed.

Requirements

  • Proven experience operating loaders or similar heavy equipment, preferably in asphalt plant or construction settings
  • Strong commitment to safety and adherence to operational protocols
  • Good mechanical aptitude to perform basic equipment inspections and maintenance
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
  • Strong communication skills to coordinate with plant and project personnel
  • Flexibility to work varying hours and travel to different plant sites in Iowa and Nebraska
  • Pass pre-employment drug screening.

Benefits

  • ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) The chance to be an employee owner
  • $500 sign on bonus
  • Competitive wages
  • Paid Holidays
  • Weekly pay
  • Daily travel per diem
  • Medical insurance available through Blue Cross Blue Shield with dental and vision also available
  • 401K plan with company match 
  • Achievement points system for rewards
  • A culture that promotes opportunities for growth, development and internal promotions