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Front End Loader Operator Jobs in Washington, DC

Operate excavators and front-end loaders to perform backfilling in controlled lifts according to ... Experience operating additional heavy equipment such as backhoes and dozers is a plus.

Loader - Landover, MD

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Back 45d Loader #26-399 Landover, Maryland, United States Apply X Facebook LinkedIn Email Copy ... Experience operating reach trucks and sit-down forklifts; certification may be required. * Basic ...

Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The Operator must: * 3+ years of experience on large excavators (ie John Deere 180 or larger), backhoes and/or front end loaders. * Responsible for safe operation and maintenance (ie greasing) of ...

Backhoe Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$53K - $70K/yr

One (1) year of experience operating heavy/specialized equipment such as backhoes, concrete trucks, medium and tandem dump trucks, crane trucks, front-end loaders, asphalt rollers, asphalt/concrete ...

Copy of Tipping Floor Technician

Jessup, MD · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Must have experience in operating tractors, front-end loaders, skid-steers or similar hydraulic equipment * Basic math skills required * Competency with technology, entering data onto a screen or ...

CWD Driver/Loader

Mclean, VA · On-site

$33.83/hr

Monday-Friday 5:30 AM - 2:00 PM Essential Responsibilities: • Load, transport, and unload ... Incumbents may work in conditions that require operating industrial machinery/power tools and motor ...

Equipment Operator

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Operate all assigned equipment such as (but not limited to): front-end loaders, skid steers, track ... Experience operating equipment such as front-end loaders, skid steers, track loaders, articulating ...

Equipment Operator

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Operate all assigned equipment such as (but not limited to): front-end loaders, skid steers, track ... Experience operating equipment such as front-end loaders, skid steers, track loaders, articulating ...

Showing results 21-40

Front End Loader Operator information

See Washington, DC salary details

$12

$22

$32

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader operator in Washington, DC is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $25.29 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 Washington, DC?

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

Infographic showing various Front End Loader Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,632 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Tow Truck Driver I - DOT (Manheim)

Cox Automotive

Elkridge, MD • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Cox Automotive rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

99th of 151 rated financial services


Job description

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate tow trucks and other equipment to move disabled, improperly parked, or non-operational vehicles across the lot
  • Safely load, secure, transport, and unload vehicles in accordance with company safety guidelines
  • Respond to requests for vehicle recovery, removals, or repositioning in a timely manner
  • Support lot organization by staging vehicles for sale, transport, inspection, or customer pickup
  • Conduct pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections and report any mechanical or safety issues
  • Maintain accurate records/logs of towed or moved vehicles as required
  • Follow all local, state, and company safety regulations while operating equipment
  • Communicate effectively with Lot Operations team, coordinators, and leadership regarding vehicle status and priorities
  • Assist with general lot operations tasks as needed (e.g., traffic flow, customer assistance, basic vehicle movement)
  • Operates a tow truck to provide tow service to customer vehicles on the auction lot and in different locations as needed.
  • Operates a front-end loader to provide a loading and unloading service for the customers. As well as move vehicles around the lot for auction shops.
  • Properly affix tow truck and front-end loader to vehicle needing tow, assuring that the vehicle will not be damaged or cause any danger to others in the towing process. Releases vehicle from the tow truck and assures that vehicle is left in a safe, immobile manner.
  • In a safe and courteous manner, hauls vehicles to directed areas.
  • Scans every towed vehicle using the TC75 to the location where the vehicle has been delivered.
  • Assists employees and customers with towing and jump-starting vehicle battery, as requested via phone or in person.
  • As appropriate, assist in unlocking customer vehicles, jump-starting, or locating using Lot Vision.
  • Tows vehicles requiring towing service to the Mechanic shop as requested.
  • Removes customer and employee vehicles parked incorrectly or in an unsafe manner to customer lot as requested.
  • Performs routine maintenance checks on tow truck and front-end loader to have (i.e., oil changes, lubes, filter changes, tire changes).
  • Operate truck and front-end loader in compliance with safety regulations.
  • May assist lot operations when not operating tow truck and in sale day activities.
  • Visibly demonstrate safety commitment by following all safety and health procedures and modeling the behaviors related to such. Actively participate in support of all safety activities aligned with Safety Excellence.
  • Run reports to move vehicles into the sale TRA area for auction.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management.
  • May be required to work overtime as business needs dictate.

Qualifications:
Minimum-
  • High School Diploma/GED and 5 years' experience in a related field.
  • OR the right candidate could also have a different combination, such as any level degree/certification beyond a HS diploma/GED in a related discipline and 3 years' experience;
  • OR 7 years' experience in a related field.
  • Safe drivers needed; valid driver's license required.
  • Pre-hire Physical needed for DOT medical card.
  • Completion of DOT Driver Qualification file.
  • Valid Class C CDL preferred.
  • Rollback tow truck experience.
  • 1 - 3 years of experience driving a service/tow truck or frontend loader
  • Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time.
  • Ability to walk long distances.
  • Regularly required to stand, walk, reach, talk and hear.
  • Frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend, squat, and climb.
  • Ability to lift 1-30 pounds.
  • Vision abilities required include close, distance and color vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
  • Experience on a wheel lift and some forklift experience

Schedule:
  • Tuesday - Friday
  • 7:30am - 4:30pm / Saturday 7:00am - 4:00pm

Work Environment:
  • Frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions. Moderate noise level. Occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts and electrical shock hazard.

USD 20.00 - 30.00 per hour
Compensation:
Hourly pay rate is in the range of $20.00 - $30.00/hour. The hourly base rate may vary within the anticipated range based on factors such as the ultimate location of the position and the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, and abilities. Position may be eligible for additional compensation that may include commission (annual, monthly, etc.) and/or an incentive program.
Benefits:
Employees are eligible to receive a minimum of sixteen hours of paid time off every month and seven paid holidays throughout the calendar year. Employees are also eligible for additional paid time off in the form of bereavement leave, time off to vote, jury duty leave, volunteer time off, military leave, and parental leave.
Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States for any employer without current or future sponsorship.
EOE, including disability/vets

What Cox Automotive employees say

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About Cox Automotive

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Cox Automotive, people of every background are driven by their passion for mobility, innovation and community. We transform the way the world buys, sells, owns and uses cars, accelerating the industry with global powerhouse brands like Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book, Manheim and more. What's more, we do it all with an emphasis on employee growth and happiness. Drive your future forward and join Cox Automotive today! Cox empowers employees to build a better future and has been doing so for over 120 years. With exciting investments and innovations across transportation, communications, cleantech and healthcare, our family of businesses - which includes Cox Automotive and Cox Communications - is forging a better future for us all. Ready to make your mark? Join us today! Benefits of working at Cox may include health care insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement planning (401(k)), and paid days off (sick leave, parental leave, flexible vacation/wellness days, and/or PTO). For more details on what benefits you may be offered, visit our benefits page . Cox is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer - All qualified applicants/employees will receive consideration for employment without regard to that individual's age, race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetic information, ethnicity, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law. Cox provides reasonable accommodations when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with disability, unless such accommodations would cause an undue hardship. Statement to ALL Third-Party Agencies and Similar Organizations: Cox accepts resumes only from agencies with which we formally engage their services. Please do not forward resumes to our applicant tracking system, Cox employees, Cox hiring manager, or send to any Cox facility. Cox is not responsible for any fees or charges associated with unsolicited resumes.

Industry

Automobile dealers and technology, communication and media

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Atlanta, GA, US