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Front End Loader Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Golden Grain Energy LLC

Material Handler

Mason City, IA · On-site

$23/hr

Responsible for safely operating heavy equipment and machinery to load finished product into semi ... Experience in truck loading and unloading, railcar loading, front end loader, skid loader and ...

Golden Grain Energy LLC

Material Handler

Mason City, IA · On-site

$23/hr

Responsible for safely operating heavy equipment and machinery to load finished product into semi ... Experience in truck loading and unloading, railcar loading, front end loader, skid loader and ...

Golden Grain Energy LLC

Material Handler

Mason City, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Responsible for safely operating heavy equipment and machinery to load finished product into semi ... Experience in truck loading and unloading, railcar loading, front end loader, skid loader and ...

Golden Grain Energy LLC

Material Handler

Mason City, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Read, understand and follow standard operating procedures for operation of plant and associated ... Experience in truck loading and unloading, railcar loading, front end loader, skid loader and ...

Opal Foods LLC

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

Iowa Falls, IA · On-site

Position Responsibilities:Keep equipment running and operating safely and efficiently by ... front end loader to move litterDetect faulty operations, defective material and report those and ...

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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 Aug 8, 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 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 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:
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What cities in Iowa are hiring for Front End Loader Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Front End Loader Operator job openings:
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, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,686 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Martin Marietta

Gilmore City, IA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Martin Marietta Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

351st of 537 rated manufacturers

Job description

Martin Marietta is currently looking for a versatile, motivated Heavy Equipment Operator at our Moore Quarry in Gilmore City, Iowa. This position is responsible for safely and efficiently performing cross-functional duties in safety, plant maintenance, production, and equipment operation. This is a full-time nonunion position. 

Essential Functions

  • Performs preventative and routine maintenance on mobile and plant equipment, including cutting and welding under the guidance of the Leadperson or other designated personnel       
  • Performs daily pre/post-shift inspections on equipment and maintains maintenance log      
  • Uses a hand shovel and operates a skid steer, front-end loader, and other tools to clean around plant equipment and maintain roadways and parking areas      
  • Participates in plant operations including production, loading, shipping, and quality control      
  • Maintains good housekeeping in areas of responsibility and safe traffic flow throughout the site      
  • Operates plant-specific mobile equipment in a safe manner as needed      
  • Aides in the training of co-workers as needed      
  • Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor      
  • Participates in Monthly Safety Observations and Suggestions, along with taking part in the Martin Marietta Safety Culture

Competencies

  • Safety Acumen
  • Teamwork
  • Motivation
  • Results-Driven
  • Commitment to Excellence

Work Environment
This position operates 100% of the time in an outdoor surface quarry setting at our Moore Quarry in Gilmore City, Iowa.

Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift or move up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.   
 
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position that regularly requires long hours and weekend work

Required Education and Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent 
  • 1 + year related experience
  • Must hold a valid, unrestricted driver’s license      

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

  • Must be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated
  • Will take an active role in the plant safety initiatives
  • Willing to work overtime and weekends as needed
  • Willing to cross-train in different areas of production
  • Willing to travel to various work locations

Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This is a safety-sensitive role and Martin Marietta will continue to require drug testing that does include testing for cannabis/THC,

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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