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Front End Loader Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Potters Industries Inc

Operations Technician I

Canby, OR · On-site

$24.11/hr

... Operator's position. We are looking for candidates that set themselves apart from their peers in ... Safely operate plant vehicles forklifts and front-end loader in support of production activities

Bigfoot Staffing

Metal Buyer

Portland, OR

$19/hr

The ideal candidate will have experience identifying metal grades, operating heavy equipment such as forklifts and front-end loaders, and providing excellent customer service in a fast-paced ...

Bigfoot Staffing

Metal Buyer

Hillsboro, OR

$19/hr

The ideal candidate will have experience identifying metal grades, operating heavy equipment such as forklifts and front-end loaders, and providing excellent customer service in a fast-paced ...

Glass Roots Construction

Excavator Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Excavator Operator Glass Roots Construction (GRC) is a first-class fiber optic utility construction ... or front-end loaders * Ensures equipment is in good working order, at all times * Must possess ...

Pacific Sports Turf, Inc.

Be Seen First

Equipment Operator - Sports Turf Maintenance Specialist

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Our Turf Technicians are responsible for the safe delivery and operation of a variety of different equipment such as top-dressers, front end loaders, aerators, seeders, deep tine aerators, core ...

Pacific Sports Turf, Inc.

Be Seen First

Equipment Operator - Sports Turf Maintenance Specialist

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Our Turf Technicians are responsible for the safe delivery and operation of a variety of different equipment such as top-dressers, front end loaders, aerators, seeders, deep tine aerators, core ...

Fred Meyer

GROCERY/COURTESY CLERK

Scappoose, OR · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

Greet customers, help customers load merchandise on the conveyor belt, bag merchandise and thank ... Observe scheduled shift operating hours. * Display a positive, friendly attitude. * Reinforce ...

Fred Meyer

GROCERY/COURTESY CLERK

Scappoose, OR · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

Greet customers, help customers load merchandise on the conveyor belt, bag merchandise and thank ... Observe scheduled shift operating hours. * Display a positive, friendly attitude. * Reinforce ...

All JobsFront End Loader Operator JobsFront End Loader Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

Front End Loader Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11

$21

$30

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader operator in Portland, OR is $21.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $23.70 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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Front End Loader Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Front End Loader Operator jobs in Portland, OR? For Front End Loader Operator jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Front End Loader Operator jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Front End Loader Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:
Front End Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Front End Loader Operator job openings in Portland, OR 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 $43,680 per year, or $21 per hour.

Operations Technician I

Potters Industries Inc

Canby, OR • On-site

$24.11/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

New Hourly Rate!

Base Pay Starting at - $24.11 per hour + $1.00 per hour night premium

Potters Industries in Muscatine, IA is seeking qualified candidates for our Furnace / Grinding Operator’s position. We are looking for candidates that set themselves apart from their peers in their quest to learn and be successful while meeting production goals in a “Safety First” environment.

This position is for night shift – 7:00p.m. - 7:00a.m.

What we offer:

  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement


Job Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate our furnace and grinding equipment to meet quality & production goals
  • Safely operate plant vehicles forklifts and front-end loader in support of production activities
  • Perform basic analytical testing to confirm quality of material in processes
  • Interpret analytical data and adjusts processes to maintain quality output
  • Monitor levels of product within process equipment and record data within computer database and fill out paper logs during daily operations
  • Housekeeping and basic maintenance of production area
  • Participate in all Health, Safety and Environmental activities, monthly plant audits, accident investigations and Hazard IDs

Minimum Requirements for Consideration:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • One year of experience in a manufacturing or industrial setting
  • Must be able to work any day of the week
  • Must be able to be medically cleared to wear a dust filtering respirator when needed for housekeeping.
  • Forklift / front-end loader operational experience
  • Computer skills working with Microsoft Outlook / Excel / Word / Access