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Front End Loader Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Potters Industries Inc

Operations Technician I

Canby, OR · On-site

$24.11/hr

Safely operate plant vehicles forklifts and front-end loader in support of production activities * Perform basic analytical testing to confirm quality of material in processes * Interpret analytical ...

Bigfoot Staffing

Metal Buyer

Portland, OR · On-site

$19/hr

Forklifts * Front-end loaders * Shears * Wire strippers * Tote tippers * Load and unload trailers, trucks, and containers * Move materials throughout the warehouse and processing yard * Enter ...

Bigfoot Staffing

Metal Buyer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$19/hr

Forklifts * Front-end loaders * Shears * Wire strippers * Tote tippers * Load and unload trailers, trucks, and containers * Move materials throughout the warehouse and processing yard * Enter ...

Pacific Sports Turf, Inc.

Be Seen First

Equipment Operator - Sports Turf Maintenance Specialist

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Our Turf Technicians are responsible for the safe delivery and operation of a variety of different equipment such as top-dressers, front end loaders, aerators, seeders, deep tine aerators, core ...

Pacific Sports Turf, Inc.

Be Seen First

Equipment Operator - Sports Turf Maintenance Specialist

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Our Turf Technicians are responsible for the safe delivery and operation of a variety of different equipment such as top-dressers, front end loaders, aerators, seeders, deep tine aerators, core ...

Glass Roots Construction

Excavator Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Must be able to operate various types of heavy equipment, such as excavators, dozers, backhoes, compactors, articulated dump trucks, and/or front-end loaders * Ensures equipment is in good working ...

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All JobsFront End Loader JobsFront End Loader Jobs in Portland, OR

Front End Loader information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11

$21

$30

How much do front end loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for front end loader in Portland, OR is $21.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $23.70 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 Portland, OR? For Front End Loader jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Front End Loader jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Front End Loader jobs in Portland, OR are:
Front End Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Front End Loader job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,680 per year, or $21 per hour.

Operations Technician I

Potters Industries Inc

Canby, OR • On-site

$24.11/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

New Hourly Rate!

Base Pay Starting at - $24.11 per hour + $1.00 per hour night premium

Potters Industries in Muscatine, IA is seeking qualified candidates for our Furnace / Grinding Operator’s position. We are looking for candidates that set themselves apart from their peers in their quest to learn and be successful while meeting production goals in a “Safety First” environment.

This position is for night shift – 7:00p.m. - 7:00a.m.

What we offer:

  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement


Job Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate our furnace and grinding equipment to meet quality & production goals
  • Safely operate plant vehicles forklifts and front-end loader in support of production activities
  • Perform basic analytical testing to confirm quality of material in processes
  • Interpret analytical data and adjusts processes to maintain quality output
  • Monitor levels of product within process equipment and record data within computer database and fill out paper logs during daily operations
  • Housekeeping and basic maintenance of production area
  • Participate in all Health, Safety and Environmental activities, monthly plant audits, accident investigations and Hazard IDs

Minimum Requirements for Consideration:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • One year of experience in a manufacturing or industrial setting
  • Must be able to work any day of the week
  • Must be able to be medically cleared to wear a dust filtering respirator when needed for housekeeping.
  • Forklift / front-end loader operational experience
  • Computer skills working with Microsoft Outlook / Excel / Word / Access