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Front End Loader Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Loader Operator (Expression of Interest)

Prudhoe Bay, AK · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

JOB SUMMARY The loader operator operates a 966 front end loader or equivalent; Load and unload equipment, materials and tubulars. Maintain clear access to drilling rig, camp, materials and equipment ...

Loader Operator I

Wasilla, AK

$17 - $22.25/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 ...

The Customer Service Associate (Driver Helper) will assist the driver in catering aircraft and transporting meals/beverage/equipment to assigned flights. They will help provide excellent customer ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Operate heavy machinery including front-end loader, excavator, rollers, road grader, pavers, backhoes, brush cutting, and tractors to move materials and prepare sites for construction activities

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Front End Loader information

See Alaska salary details

$11

$21

$30

How much do front end loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader in Alaska is $21.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Front End Loader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Front End Loader operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent, sometimes with specific equipment certification. Familiarity with machine controls, basic maintenance tools, and computerized systems used for diagnostics is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well in a team are crucial soft skills for this position. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and precise operation, minimizing workplace accidents and maximizing productivity on job sites.

What are some common challenges faced by Front End Loader operators and how can they be managed on the job?

Front End Loader operators often encounter challenges such as working in tight spaces, handling uneven terrain, and ensuring safety around other heavy equipment and personnel. Effective communication with team members and adherence to site safety protocols are crucial for preventing accidents. Regular maintenance checks on the loader can also help prevent unexpected breakdowns, and ongoing training ensures operators stay up-to-date with best practices for efficient and safe operation. Being proactive and vigilant helps operators manage these challenges successfully.

How much does a front-end loader operator earn?

Front-end loader operators typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What is the highest paid heavy equipment operator job?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those who specialize in operating large machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, or excavators in industries like oil and gas, mining, or construction. Experienced operators with specialized skills, certifications, and working in remote or high-risk environments tend to earn the highest wages, which can exceed $70,000 to $100,000 annually depending on location and experience.

Do you need a CDL to operate a front loader?

Typically, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is not required to operate a front end loader, as it is a construction equipment operator role that usually requires specific training and certification in operating heavy machinery. However, some employers or jurisdictions may have different requirements, so it's important to check local regulations and employer policies. Operating a front loader often involves safety training and knowledge of equipment controls and maintenance.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Front end loader operators can earn around $700 a day, especially with experience, overtime, or working in high-demand industries like construction or mining. These roles often require specialized skills, certifications, and physical stamina, and pay varies based on location and project complexity.

What are Front End Loaders?

Front End Loaders, also known as front loaders or wheel loaders, are heavy equipment machines used primarily in construction, agriculture, and other industries to move or load materials such as soil, gravel, sand, or debris. They feature a large bucket mounted at the front, which can be raised, lowered, and tilted to scoop and transport materials. Operators use front end loaders for tasks like loading trucks, clearing rubble, and leveling ground. These machines are valued for their versatility, efficiency, and ability to handle a wide variety of tasks on job sites.

What is the difference between Front End Loader vs Backhoe Operator?

AspectFront End LoaderBackhoe Operator
Primary EquipmentLoader bucket for loading and moving materialsBackhoe for digging and trenching
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, agricultureConstruction, utility work, excavation
CertificationsOperator licenses, safety trainingOperator licenses, safety training
Common UsageLoading materials, stockpilingDigging trenches, excavations

While both Front End Loaders and Backhoe Operators work in construction and excavation, the main difference lies in their equipment and tasks. Front End Loaders are primarily used for loading and moving materials with a large bucket, whereas Backhoe Operators focus on digging and trenching with a backhoe attachment. Both roles require similar certifications and safety training, but their functions and equipment differ significantly.

Infographic showing various Front End Loader job openings in Alaska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,357 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Loader Operator (Expression of Interest)

Doyon

Prudhoe Bay, AK • On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Overview
This post is to build a talent pool for upcoming projects this fall/winter.
JOB SUMMARY
The loader operator operates a 966 front end loader or equivalent; Load and unload equipment, materials and tubulars. Maintain clear access to drilling rig, camp, materials and equipment stored on drill pad. Assists in pipe shed or drill rig as required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
• Follow DDI and customer policies and standard operating procedures
• Operate front end loader with forks, buckets, and misc. attachments
• Maintains organization of pad, stores and keeps inventories of equipment
• Deliver tools, equipment and materials to drilling rig
• Record equipment operating information on daily report
• Maintain spare parts, oil and grease inventories
• Monitor and fuel auxiliary equipment
• Alerts personnel when wildlife is on location
• Maintain clear communication with relief, Driller, and Toolpusher
• Participate in emergency drills
• Assists with supervising and training roustabouts
• Performs other duties assigned
CORE COMPETENCIES:
• Commitment to Excellence - Identifies what needs to be done and takes action to achieve a standard of excellence beyond job expectations.
• Corporate Values- Understand, embraces, and integrates Doyon corporate values into everyday duties and responsibilities.
• Customer Service - Identifies and responds to current and future client needs by providing excellent service to internal and external clients.
• Safety and Security - Promotes a safe work environment for co-workers and customers.
• Teamwork - Resourceful team player that builds, strengthens, and maintains collaborative relationships with others inside or outside the organization.
JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES
• Adaptability- Adapts to changing conditions and work assignments, sets priorities and manages multiple assignments, and tasks.
• Attention to Detail- Ensures one's own and other's work and information are complete and accurate.
• Communication Skills- Listens, writes, and speaks effectively, and positively relates and interacts with co-workers, customers and others.
• Dependability- Consistently adheres to operational standards, ensures smooth operations and positive customer experiences, builds a productive workplace, is reliable, and improves team morale
• Self-motivated- Requires little to no supervision, works well both independently and as part of a team.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Two or more years' experience as an oil rig loader operator
• NSTC (North Slope Training Certificate)
• Valid driver's license
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Alaska North Slope experience
WORKING ENVIRONMENT
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to extreme weather conditions both on and off shore. Temperatures reach as low as 50 degrees below zero during the winter months. Employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places, extreme heat and high noise levels. Employee will be required to work at various heights on the rig. Employee will work in an environment where there is risk that they will be exposed to toxic, caustic and/or hazardous chemicals, fumes or airborne particles. Workers are required to wear personal protective equipment while on the job.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
An individual will be required to work the majority of hours in a remote industrial environment, and will need to be able to quickly respond to a change in work demands. Occasional lifting up to (1-50 lbs.) is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
It is Doyon Drilling's business philosophy and practice to provide reasonable accommodations, according to applicable state and federal laws, to all qualified individuals with physical or mental disabilities.
PREFERENCE STATEMENT
Doyon grants preference to qualified Doyon Shareholders first, and second to qualified shareholders of other Alaska Native corporations that grant a similar preference in all phases of employment and training, which include, but are not limited to hiring, promotion, layoff, transfer, and training.