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Front End Loader Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler

Mason City, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Experience in truck loading and unloading, railcar loading, front end loader, skid loader and railcar mover is preferred. Physical Requirements: Must have ability to lift at least 50 pounds, must ...

Experience in truck loading and unloading, railcar loading, front end loader, skid loader and railcar mover is preferred. Physical Requirements: Must have ability to lift at least 50 pounds, must ...

Material Handler

Mason City, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Experience in truck loading and unloading, railcar loading, front end loader, skid loader and railcar mover is preferred. Physical Requirements: Must have ability to lift at least 50 pounds, must ...

... front end loader to move litterDetect faulty operations, defective material and report those and any unusual situations to proper supervisionComply with safety regulations and maintain clean and ...

Production Assistant

Davenport, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Performs general utility work including pushing up piles of rock and coal with front end loader and other equipment, unplugging belts, and general labor work as directed. * Provides operational ...

Equipment Operator

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Description ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB • Operating a dozer, excavator, front end loader and forklift • Ensuring all equipment is maintained and used in accordance with company health and ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

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.

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description

General Summary:  Responsible for safely operating heavy equipment and machinery to load finished product into semi-trucks and railcars while adhering to all safety procedures and operational standards. 


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Load Dried Distiller Grains in semi-trucks and railcars
  • Load ethanol in tank cars meeting all federal, state, and local hazardous material regulations
  • Operate heavy machinery and equipment to load trucks with additional co-products (Modified, Off-Grade)
  • Accurately complete railcar and tank car inspections to ensure car is in proper loading condition before, during and after loading
  • Keep and record an accurate log of the loading activities each day
  • Operate a railcar mover on a consistent basis to assure rail cars are in their proper location to be loaded and picked up by the railroad
  • Read, understand and follow standard operating procedures for operation of plant and associated equipment
  • Ensure the quality of product being shipped is of excellent standard
  • Communicate with the maintenance department for timely repairs and routine maintenance
  • Contribute to a team effort by accomplishing related results as needed in a self-directed fashion while focusing on continuous improvement in all aspects of the job
  • Complete required training and attend additional training/conferences as recommended by the company
  • Keep the facility clean and safe taking into account all local, city, state and federal laws and regulations
  • Other duties as assigned


Requirements

Education and Experience: Experience in truck loading and unloading, railcar loading, front end loader, skid loader and railcar mover is preferred.


Physical Requirements: Must have ability to lift at least 50 pounds, must have the ability to climb ladders and work at heights of at least 30 feet and must have ability to stand and walk for long periods of time.


Working Conditions: Work areas are exposed to all elements of weather, loud noise, and dusty conditions. Also exposure to chemicals and heavy moving machinery.


Schedule:

Monday - Off

Tuesday - Off

Wednesday - 8 am to 4:30 pm

Thursday - 5 am to 4:30 pm

Friday - 5 am to 4 pm

Saturday - 5 am to 2 pm

Sunday - Off


EOE:

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee incumbent in this position. Employee will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.