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Front End Loader Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Abode Construction, Inc.

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Marion, IA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Operates trucks and construction or power equipment, such as excavator w/ GPS, backhoe, dozer, skid-steer, forklift, man-lift, dump truck, snowplow, road grater, front-end loader, and hydraulic ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$32.31/hr

Operates motorized heavy equipment, including locomotives, skid steers, front-end loaders, JLG boom lifts, scissor lifts, articulating boom lights, and telehandlers. * Monitors truck driver unloading ...

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All JobsFront End Loader JobsFront End Loader Jobs in Iowa

Front End Loader information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$18

$26

How much do front end loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader in Iowa is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $21.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Front End Loader jobs in Iowa? For Front End Loader jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Front End Loader jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Front End Loader jobs in Iowa are:
Front End Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Front End Loader job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Temporary, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,686 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

2nd shift Laborer Skid Loader/Shag Operator

Darling Ingredients

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Darling Ingredients rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 436 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Summary

The Laborer operates loader, forklifts, bobcat and yard tractor pumps. Will need to be able to climb tanks, tankers, shovels material, completes daily sanitation, lifts and rolls barrels when needed. Loads and unloads raw materials and finished products. Must be legible and accurate on all documentation.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

  • Operates skid loader, payloader, forklifts, bobcat and yard tractor.
  • Unload raw material. Washes trailers and tankers.
  • Documents all movement and completes accurately.
  • Shovels, sweeps and washes plant. Completes needed daily sanitation work.
  • Follows all Company safety procedures, GMP and guidelines.
  • All other duties as assigned by management.
  • Must be timely.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High School diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Minimum 1 yr experience operating a skid loader or shag truck
  • Must have good work history and attendance record.
  • Must have Drivers License

Preferred Qualifications

  • Communicates clearly in verbal and written form.
  • Highly organized; superior time management skills. Follows direction
  • Ability to maintain composure in difficult situations; adaptable to changing situations.
  • Ability to pass pre-employment drug screen.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers.
  • Able to climb high and tolerate heights.

Physical Demands

  • Constantly required to walk, stand, sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crawl, and crouch.
  • Occasionally push, pull, up to 100 lbs. with both arms
  • Occasionally lift up to 80 lbs. with both arms.
  • Frequently lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Regularly required reach with hands and arms.
  • Continually entering and exiting cab of tractor, front end loader, bobcat and forklift.

Work Environment

Job functions will be carried out at a plant location.

Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military service, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and local law. Know Your Rights: If you would like more information, please click on the link and paste into your browser: https://www.eeoc.gov/poster

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