1

Front End Loader Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Plant Operator ( Salcha, AK)

Salcha, AK · On-site

$21.31 - $29/hr

Operating equipment or frontend loader experience is a plus * Tractortrailer driving experience is a plus * Basic mechanical aptitude or experience using hand tools preferred * Prior plant operations ...

Heap Leach Pad Mechanic

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$25 - $32.75/hr

... front-end loaders and dozers. Experience preferred. 6. Perform ground and facility maintenance including but not limited to snow removal and general cleanup. 7. Perform small equipment and machine ...

Heap Leach Pad Mechanic

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$25 - $32.75/hr

... front-end loaders and dozers. Experience preferred. 6. Perform ground and facility maintenance including but not limited to snow removal and general cleanup. 7. Perform small equipment and machine ...

Part Time - Head Cashier - Flexible

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

... (Front End/Loaders) • Removes security tags, verifies product information, and bags merchandise for customers • Answers incoming phone calls and directs calls or takes messages as needed • ...

Full Stack Java Developer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$78K - $997K/yr

Strong foundation in Java backend development combined with expertise in contemporary frontend ... Reduced page load time by 40% through lazy loading and code splitting techniques * Built full-stack ...

Showing results 41-60

Front End Loader information

See Alaska salary details

$11

$21

$30

How much do front end loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 is a front end loader?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a front end loader?

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.

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.

How much does a front end loader driver make?

The average salary for a front end loader operator typically ranges from $15 to $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in construction or mining environments may earn higher wages and benefits.
Infographic showing various Front End Loader job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,357 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Plant Operator ( Salcha, AK)

Orica

Salcha, AK • On-site

$21.31 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

About Orica

At Orica, it's the power of our people that leads change and shapes our futures. Every day, all around the world, our people help mobilize vital resources essential to progress. Established in 1874, we have grown to become the world leader in mining and civil blasting with a diverse team of more than 13,000 across the world. From the production and supply of explosives, blasting systems, mining chemicals, and geotechnical monitoring to our cutting-edge digital solutions and comprehensive range of services, we sustainably mobilize the earth's resources.


It's an exciting time to join us - we are shaping the future of mining through digital and automated technologies, embracing new ways of thinking, pioneering innovation, and reimagining the way we work.
Orica has been recognized as one of the top companies for women to work for in the transportation industry by the Women in Trucking Association (WIT) in 2023, 2024, and 2025.
If you are interested in joining the Orica team and would like to be contacted by the Orica recruiting team, text "New Job" to 52345. 

Orica does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role.  Do not apply for this role if you will need Orica Immigration Sponsorship (e.g., H1-B, TN, STEM OPT, etc.) now or in the future

About the role - Plant Operator ( Salcha, AK)

We are excited to announce an opportunity at Orica for a Plant Operator within our Orica USA Commercial team.

The Plant Operator is responsible for safely operating the emulsion plant and supporting daily manufacturing activities. This role ensures products meet customer requirements by closely monitoring production processes, product quality, and raw material standards. The position also involves equipment operation, basic troubleshooting, and maintaining safe, efficient, and compliant plant operations.

Work schedule
  • Monday through Friday
  • Early morning starts at 7:00 AM
  • Work approximately 10-12 hour shifts
What you will be doing
  • Ensure Distribution Safety schedules are met and provide feedback to Distribution Operators
  • Manage equipment and machinery breakdowns to reduce downtime
  • Communicate postgoods issue progress and updates
  • Coordinate with the site Distribution to ensure documentation is completed in time to meet scheduling requirements
  • Maintain explosives inventory levels according to the Explosives Regulations
  • Accurately track, manage, and document magazine inventory
  • Support costeffective and timely product delivery
  • Build efficient working relationships with distribution contractors
  • Deliver agreedupon service levels to internal and external customers
  • Maintain magazine and inventory compliance with relevant regulatory requirements
  • Will cross-train with other equipment and distribution duties
  • Other job duties as required
What you will bring
  • Operating equipment or frontend loader experience is a plus
  • Tractortrailer driving experience is a plus
  • Basic mechanical aptitude or experience using hand tools preferred
  • Prior plant operations experience is beneficial but not required-we provide full onthejob training
Physical requirements
  • The work environment involves being outside in all types of weather
  • Lifting up to 60 pounds / carrying 50 pounds or more of product or other materials
  • Ability to push, pull, bend, and squat while operating equipment or handling materials
Your qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Up to 2 years' experience in plant operations is a plus
What we offer

As part of a truly global company, you will have the ability to grow and learn in a diverse, collaborative culture. We foster relationships and learning through connected global and local teams, promote flexible and diverse career paths, and support the development of your knowledge and skills. 

You will be paid a competitive salary, learn from talented individuals across multiple disciplines, and be able to thrive in a safe workplace within a collaborative culture. Ignite your career at a place where your distinct potential can find its home.

Compensation
  • Hourly pay range: $21.31 - $29.00

(Salary to be determined by the applicant's experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.)

Benefits
  • Medical/Prescription Drug - Three (3) plans to choose from
  • Dental - Two (2) plans to choose from
  • Vision - Two (2) plans to choose from
  • Health Savings Account
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Basic Employee Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
  • Voluntary Employee/Dependent Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
  • Company provided Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
  • Company provided Employee Assistance Program
  • Voluntary Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness & Accident Plans
  • Voluntary Identity Theft Protection
  • Voluntary Legal Plan
  • 401(k) + Company Match
  • Company provided Maternity Leave
  • Company provided Bonding Leave
  • Acrrued Paid Time Off
  • Paid Sick & Safe Time
  • Nine (9) Scheduled Holidays + Two (2) Floating Holidays
We respect and value all

Orica promotes and fosters a culture of inclusion and Equal Opportunity Employment everywhere we operate. We treat our people and applicants with fairness, dignity, and respect, getting the best of everyone's contributions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, nationality, age, military or veteran, marital or disability status.

We have been made aware that some individuals have received scam emails which include false and invalid offers of employment from Orica.  Please note that Orica will not offer employment to any candidate without first undertaking a formal application and recruitment process.  All candidates are required to actively participate in the recruitment process applicable to the specific role and location where the role is based, prior to any offer of employment being made.  Please also be advised that Orica will never request payment or require candidates to deposit a check during the recruitment and onboarding processes.

Orica is an Equal Opportunity Employer and we are a Drug-free workplace.