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Front End Loader Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Loader Operator I

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

They utilize our front-end loaders to maneuver vehicles around our facilities in preparation for auction. While Loader Operators always focus on safety first, they understand the importance of a ...

Loader Operator I

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

They utilize our front-end loaders to maneuver vehicles around our facilities in preparation for auction. While Loader Operators always focus on safety first, they understand the importance of a ...

They utilize our front-end loaders to maneuver vehicles around our facilities in preparation for auction. While Loader Operators always focus on safety first, they understand the importance of a ...

Loader Operator I

Nashville, TN

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

They utilize our front-end loaders to maneuver vehicles around our facilities in preparation for auction. While Loader Operators always focus on safety first, they understand the importance of a ...

Loader Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Operate heavy equipment (i.e. Front-End Loaders, Excavators, Grinders, Screeners etc.) in compliance with Living Earth's operating safety policies and procedures. * Loading of mulches, soils, compost ...

Loader Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Operate heavy equipment (i.e. Front-End Loaders, Excavators, Grinders, Screeners etc.) in compliance with Living Earth's operating safety policies and procedures. * Loading of mulches, soils, compost ...

Loader Operator

Jefferson City, TN

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Martin Marietta is seeking a Loader Operator to join our team. The ideal individual will be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated. This individual is responsible for safely and efficiently ...

Loader Operator

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Loader Operator - Murfreesboro, TN Pay Range: $28.00 - $30.00 per hour We are looking for skilled craftsmen to add to our team of dedicated, safe, productive, and proven craftsmen. Ultimate LLC ...

Loader Operator

Jefferson City, TN

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Martin Marietta is seeking a Loader Operator to join our team. The ideal individual will be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated. This individual is responsible for safely and efficiently ...

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Front End Loader Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$17

$25

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

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader operator in Tennessee is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $20.29 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 cities in Tennessee are hiring for Front End Loader Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Front End Loader Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Front End Loader Operator jobs in TN? For Front End Loader Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Front End Loader Operator job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,382 per year, or $18 per hour.

Front End Loader (Loudon, TN) - Austin Industrial

Austin Industries

Loudon, TN • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


Austin Industries rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 80 rated construction


Job description

Austin Industrial delivers premier maintenance, construction, and soft craft services to leading industrial companies across the U.S. An industry leader for more than 60 years, we offer single-source solutions to our customers in the oil, gas, chemical, food, agriculture, power, and manufacturing industries. Our team of employee-owners, equipped with innovative technology and optimized procedures, helps owners optimize safety, productivity, profit margins, and cost-efficiency.

Front-End Loader Operator

The Front-End Loader Operator is responsible for operating a stationary or traveling front end loader to lift, move, position, and reposition loads. Depresses buttons, lifts levers, and ensures load is safely loaded to Front-end loader before making any lift.  Move products, equipment, or materials to and from industrial work areas by performing the following essential duties and responsibilities. Other duties may be assigned.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Operate a front-end loader and forklift under general supervision to load trucks, and to move and fill hoppers.
  • Must have forklift and heavy equipment certifications.
  • Manipulate or depress controls to regulate speed and direction of Front-end loader and hoist movement according to written, verbal, or signal instructions.
  • Report any equipment malfunctions or safety concerns to plant contact and Austin Industrial supervision.
  • Clean and inspect Front-end loader for safety issues daily.
  • Determine if any parts are malfunctioning.
  • Complete job tickets, service quality summaries, and all other necessary paperwork.
  • Follows all Austin Industrial and plant safety procedures and guidelines to ensure safe operations of equipment.
  • May be required to operate mobile sweeper, wash down around columns and around hoppers, shoveling in hard-to-reach areas.
  • Must be able to perform work wearing personnel protective equipment. Including but not limited to the following: rain gear, chemical protective clothing, supplied air and air purifying respirators, safety harness, sand blast hoods, fire resistant coveralls, hard hat, ear plugs and safety glasses.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to have full range of mobility in upper and lower body, able to reach overhead, able to work in various positions, including, but not limited to, stooping, standing, bending over, sitting, kneeling, squatting; use hands to handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; work at heights; balance for extended periods of time.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Required for this Position:

Education – no minimum education requirements.

Experience – 3+ years of front-end loader operating experience.

Must pass drug screen and background check, as condition of employment.

This is a fulltime permanent position.  There is no per diem and no relocation funding.

This job will require working night shift; 3 on 3 off, 12-hour shifts.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work for ANY employer in the United States.  Austin is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this position.

We offer excellent benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, and a matching 401K plan. We are proud to be a 100% Employee-Owned Company (ESOP)! To learn more about Austin, please go to https://www.austin-ind.com/our-company/who-we-are.  

Austin Industrial is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

See the “Know Your Rights” poster available in English and Spanish.

About Austin Industrial

Austin Industrial provides premier self-perform maintenance, construction, and soft craft service to leading industrial companies across the U.S. An industry leader for more than 60 years, we offer single-source solutions to our customers in the oil, gas, chemical, food, agriculture, power, and manufacturing industries.

To learn more about us, visit https://www.austin-ind.com/what-we-do/industrial.

No Third-Party Inquiries Please

This Company does not accept and will not consider unsolicited resumes, or any other unsolicited candidate information submitted to the Company or any of its employee-owners by staffing agencies, search firms, or third-party recruiters in response to a posted vacancy. The Company will not pay any placement fee(s) without a written agreement to do so (i.e., payment must be required pursuant to the terms of a written agreement). 

Any unsolicited resumes or candidate information submitted to this Company or any of its employee-owners becomes the property of the Company. 

Accessibility Note

If you are a job seeker with a disability and require reasonable accommodation to apply for one of our jobs or have accessibility concerns, please contact the People Services Team at (877) 831-1217.


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