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Front End Loader Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Amrize

Mobile Equipment Operator II

Smithland, KY · On-site

Primary operations of front end loaders (993s, 992s, 988s, 980s, etc.), dozers, backhoes, grader, excavators and skid steer loaders. * Depending upon quarry operational requirements, operating mobile ...

Wood

Plant Operator ll

Louisville, KY

$19 - $23/hr

May be required to become proficient and operate Front end loader, Skid Steer, Dump Truck and Vacuum Truck. Skills / Qualifications * Must be observant and have normal color vision acuity in addition ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Bowling Green, KY

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... front end loaders to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials around the recycling yard. This position will work outside in varying weather ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$90K/yr

Preferred Qualifications: * 2-3 years' experience using a front-end loader, excavator, or scrap handler in an industrial/outdoor work environment. Nucor is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a drug ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$90K/yr

Preferred Qualifications: * 2-3 years' experience using a front-end loader, excavator, or scrap handler in an industrial/outdoor work environment. Nucor is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a drug ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$80K/yr

Operate mobile heavy equipment of various sizes and types (mobile shear, excavator, front end loader, backhoe, track hoe, grapple or magnet material handlers). * Communicates over radio with team ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$80K/yr

Operate mobile heavy equipment of various sizes and types (mobile shear, excavator, front end loader, backhoe, track hoe, grapple or magnet material handlers). * Communicates over radio with team ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

... front end loaders to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials around the recycling yard. This position will work outside in varying weather ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... front end loaders to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials around the recycling yard. This position will work outside in varying weather ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

... front end loaders to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials around the recycling yard. This position will work outside in varying weather ...

Cargill

Operator-ULE Refinery

Owensboro, KY · On-site

$32.82/hr

Forklift, Skid Loader, Sit Down Floor Sweeper, Front End Loader) * Inspect buildings, grounds and equipment utilized by the facility to troubleshoot, perform light maintenance and complete repair ...

Cargill

Operator-ULE Refinery

Owensboro, KY · On-site

$32.82/hr

Forklift, Skid Loader, Sit Down Floor Sweeper, Front End Loader) * Inspect buildings, grounds and equipment utilized by the facility to troubleshoot, perform light maintenance and complete repair ...

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All JobsFront End Loader JobsFront End Loader Jobs in Kentucky

Front End Loader information

See Kentucky salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do front end loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader in Kentucky is $17.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $19.42 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.

What are popular job titles related to Front End Loader jobs in Kentucky?

For Front End Loader jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Front End Loader jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Front End Loader jobs in Kentucky are:

Front End Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Front End Loader job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,772 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Packaging Machine Operator (Baler Operator) - 2nd Shift

American Wood Fibers, Inc

Lebanon, KY • On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

American Wood Fibers rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

American Wood Fibers (AWF) is a manufacturer of both consumer and industrial products that are sold to multiple manufacturers as well as pet, agricultural, and home-heating markets. AWF is comprised of 400+ employees and holds operations at 11 locations, generating over $100M in annual sales revenue. We are currently seeking a candidate for the 2nd Shift Packaging Machine Operator (Baler Operator) role in our Lebanon , KY facility.

JOB SUMMARY

The Packaging Machine Operator (Baler Operator) is responsible for working in a safe, efficient manner to maximize hands-on production and shipping of products and raw materials

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Operates baler in a safe and efficient manner producing packaged materials for our customers.
  • Operates a variety of mobile equipment (front end loader, skid steers, fork lifts, etc.) in the loading, hauling, and unloading of materials.
  • Operates mobile equipment in a safe and efficient manner while moving pallets of packaged material and raw material. May also be required to load customer trailers. May be asked to complete paperwork for shipping.
  • As required, perform outside duties to include sweeping, picking up debris.
  • Maintains and verifies that all current quality assurance measures are being followed and communicated to supervisors, production employees, truck drivers, office personnel, and customers.


QUALIFICATIONS*

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Physical capability to bend, squat, or stoop
  • Previous mobile equipment and/or forklift preferred


EXPERIENCE

Manufacturing: 1 Year (Preferred)

BENEFITS

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

SCHEDULE

  • Sunday - Thursday

For consideration…

Due to the nature of our business, American Wood Fibers requires a tobacco and smoke-free environment. We offer a competitive package to include health, dental, vision and life insurance, plus profit bonus, paid time off and matching 401(k). For more company information, please visit our web site www.awf.com AWF is an EEO employer.

Corporate Office

9740 Patuxent Woods Drive, Ste. 500

Columbia, MD 21046

800-624-9663 / 410-290-8700

Fax 410-290-6660

Other Locations

Jessup, MD / Schofield, WI / Pella, IA / Lebanon, KY / Marysville, CA / Marshall, TX / Circleville, OH / Marion, VA / Jamestown, CA / Laurinburg, NC

Visit us at: www.awf.com

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