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Front Loader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Radius Recycling

Loader Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Loader Operator The Loader Operator will contribute to the production team to ensure goals are met ... Operation of a Front Loader, Crusher, Fork Lift or Skid Steer: Move vehicles, cores, scrap, and ...

Radius Recycling

Loader Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Loader Operator The Loader Operator will contribute to the production team to ensure goals are met ... Operation of a Front Loader, Crusher, Fork Lift or Skid Steer: Move vehicles, cores, scrap, and ...

Schnitzer Steel Industries Inc

Loader Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

The Loader Operator will contribute to the production team to ensure goals are met safely and ... Operation of a Front Loader, Crusher, Fork Lift or Skid Steer: Move vehicles, cores, scrap, and ...

Schnitzer Steel Industries Inc

Loader Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

The Loader Operator will contribute to the production team to ensure goals are met safely and ... Operation of a Front Loader, Crusher, Fork Lift or Skid Steer: Move vehicles, cores, scrap, and ...

TMS International

Loader Operator

Flowood, MS · On-site

$23/hr

Experience in operating a CAT 988 or larger loader * Ability to dig hot pits and feed processing ... Front Loader: 2 years (Preferred) License/Certification: * Driver's License (Required) Ability to ...

Amrize

Loader Operator

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$23 - $32/hr

Loader Operator ABOUT THE ROLE The Loader Operator operates straight or articulated rubber-tired tractor-type vehicle equipped with front-mounted hydraulically powered bucket or scoop to lift and ...

Branch Group

LOADER OPERATOR

Providence Forge, VA · On-site

$38K - $63K/yr

The Front-End Loader Operator operates straight or articulated rubber tired or crawler type machine equipped with front mounted hydraulically powered bucket, scoop or other accessories used to grade ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$24/hr

Employment applications will be available at the front and a drop box will be available in the ... What you will be doing The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$24/hr

Employment applications will be available at the front and a drop box will be available in the ... What you will be doing The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and ...

Flatiron Construction

Loader Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$19/hr

Employment applications will be available at the front and a drop box will be available in the ... What you will be doing The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Employment applications will be available at the front and a drop box will be available in the ... What you will be doing The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and ...

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Front Loader Operator information

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How much do front loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for front loader operator in the United States is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a front loader operator?

Front Loader Operators are skilled workers who operate heavy machinery known as front-end loaders. These machines are used to move materials such as soil, gravel, sand, and debris at construction sites, mines, quarries, and other similar locations. Operators are responsible for safely maneuvering the loader, performing routine equipment checks, and ensuring materials are loaded and transported efficiently. They must have good hand-eye coordination, attention to safety protocols, and often require specialized training or certification. Front Loader Operators play a critical role in supporting construction and earth-moving projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a front loader operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Front Loader Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and experience or certification in operating heavy machinery. Familiarity with equipment like front-end loaders, safety protocols, and sometimes OSHA certification or a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are typically required. Attention to detail, communication, and teamwork are crucial soft skills that help ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently. These skills and qualifications are essential to maintain worksite safety, optimize productivity, and prevent costly accidents or equipment damage.

What are some common safety challenges faced by front loader operators, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Front Loader Operators often work in environments with heavy equipment, uneven terrain, and limited visibility, which can present significant safety challenges. To address these risks, operators are usually required to follow strict safety protocols, such as conducting pre-operation equipment inspections, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and adhering to site-specific traffic patterns. Regular safety training and clear communication with ground personnel are also crucial to prevent accidents and ensure a safe work environment. Employers typically provide ongoing training and emphasize a safety-first culture to support operators in minimizing workplace hazards.

What is the difference between Front Loader Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectFront Loader OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often required, OSHA certificationOSHA certification, specialized excavator training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, loading docks, mining operationsConstruction sites, trenching, demolition
Industry UsageConstruction, agriculture, miningConstruction, demolition, utility work
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for equipment operation skills and certificationsCompared for digging, trenching, and material handling

While both Front Loader Operators and Excavator Operators work in construction and mining environments, they operate different equipment suited for specific tasks. Front Loader Operators primarily handle loading and moving materials with wheel loaders, whereas Excavator Operators focus on digging and trenching with hydraulic excavators. Certifications and work environments overlap, but their roles are distinct based on the machinery used and the tasks performed.

How much does a front loader operator earn?

A front loader operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Annual salaries generally range from $30,000 to $55,000, with higher wages often available for those with specialized skills or certifications. Wages can vary based on the industry and whether the work is seasonal or year-round.
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What states have the most Front Loader Operator jobs?

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Front Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Front Loader Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,188 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Front Loader Operator

Dakota Hardscape Supply

Harrisburg, SD

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Front Loader Operator – Seasonal

Dakota Hardscape Supply – Harrisburg, SD

Start Date: August 3

Dakota Hardscape Supply is looking for a dependable, safety-minded Front Loader Operator to join our team for the remainder of the construction season.

This is a seasonal position with competitive pay, opportunities for wage increases, and the potential to return each spring.

Compensation
  • Starting Pay: $22.00 per hour
  • After a 2-month probationary period, hourly pay will increase to $23.00–$25.00, based on performance, experience, certifications, and overall contribution.
Responsibilities
  • Safely operate a front-end loader to load customer vehicles and company trucks.
  • Maintain organized material stockpiles and a clean, safe yard.
  • Assist customers with loading products in a friendly and professional manner.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections before operation.
  • Help maintain the overall health and reliability of the loader by monitoring fluid levels, greasing the machine, keeping it clean, reporting mechanical issues promptly, and completing routine preventative maintenance as assigned.
  • Work closely with the yard team to keep operations running efficiently and safely.
Preferred Qualifications

Additional skills and qualifications may be considered when determining pay:

  • Previous front loader or heavy equipment operating experience
  • Loader or heavy equipment certifications
  • Spanish fluency (English/Spanish bilingual)
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Dependable attendance and a strong work ethic
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Benefits
  • Employees who complete the full season are eligible for 10 days of paid time off (PTO) for the following season.
  • Opportunity for seasonal rehire beginning in early March.
  • Performance-based wage increases.
Seasonal Employment

This is a seasonal position, with layoffs typically occurring shortly after Thanksgiving, depending on weather and business needs. Reliable employees in good standing are encouraged to return each spring and become a valued part of our seasonal team.

If you're looking for a hands-on position with a growing local company that values hard work, safety, and reliability, we'd like to hear from you.

Apply today and join the team at Dakota Hardscape Supply in Harrisburg, SD.


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