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Front Loader Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Front Load Driver

Holland, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Front Load Driver Holland - Holland, MI 49423 Description Priority Waste is a fast-growing ... Must possess a valid Class A or Class B CDL * 1-2 years experience operating a front end load truck ...

Front Load Driver

Holland, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Job Purpose In your role as a Front End Load CDL Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a front end load truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling ...

Front Load Driver

Holland, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Job Purpose In your role as a Front End Load CDL Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a front end load truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling ...

Front Load Driver

New Hudson, MI · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Job Purpose In your role as a Front End Load CDL Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a front end load truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling ...

Front Load Driver

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Job Purpose In your role as a Front End Load CDL Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a front end load truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling ...

Front Load Driver

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Job Purpose In your role as a Front End Load CDL Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a front end load truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling ...

Front Load Driver

New Hudson, MI · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Job Purpose In your role as a Front End Load CDL Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a front end load truck and ancillary equipment on assigned route to haul solid waste/recycling ...

All dump trucks, front loaders, tractors, prime trailer, chloride truck, mowers, air compressor ... Equipment Operator III 2 • Analyze and report needed street repairs. • Perform related work as ...

... front load trucks and containers, Priority Waste makes the customer experience our #1 priority. Job Purpose: In your role as a Residential Truck Driver, you will be responsible for safely operating a ...

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Front Loader Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do front loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for front loader operator in Michigan is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

How much does a front-end loader operator earn?

A front loader operator typically earns between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Annual salaries can range from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 or more, with higher wages often available for skilled operators with certifications and experience working in construction or mining environments.

How to become a front-end loader operator?

To become a front loader operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete on-the-job training or a certification program in heavy equipment operation. Many employers require a valid driver's license and may prefer candidates with experience operating loaders and other construction machinery. Certification from organizations like the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) can improve job prospects.

What are Front Loader Operators?

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.

Is a loader operator a good job?

A loader operator is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery like front loaders to move materials in construction, mining, or agriculture. The job typically requires physical strength, attention to safety protocols, and may involve shift work or outdoor environments. It can offer steady employment and opportunities for advancement with proper certifications and experience.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Front loader operators in construction, mining, or heavy equipment industries can sometimes earn $700 or more per day, especially with experience, certifications, and working in high-demand environments or overtime. Such roles often require operating heavy machinery, safety training, and adherence to strict regulations.

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 popular job titles related to Front Loader Operator jobs in Michigan? For Front Loader Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Front Loader Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Front Loader Operator jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Front Loader Operator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,899 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Front Load Commercial Driver

Front Load Commercial Driver

Priority Waste

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago


Priority Waste rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 75 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Front Load Commercial Driver

Brown Rd Dirt Lot - Auburn Hills, MI 48326

Description

Company Summary Priority Waste, headquartered in Clinton Township, Michigan, provides waste hauling services. Our company has experienced rapid growth since its founding in 2018. This growth has allowed us to continually expand our workforce. The Company operates out of several facilities, including two transfer stations. Priority Waste maintains a diversified platform providing service to both municipal solid-waste, construction and demolition customers. Through our yellow fleet of residential, roll off, and front load trucks and containers, Priority Waste makes the customer experience our #1 priority.

Duties and Responsibilities

Duties include but are not limited to:

  • Performs pre and post trip inspections of truck
  • Operates truck in accordance with OSHA and DOT requirements as well as all local, municipal, state, and federal laws
  • Mounts and dismounts a heavy-duty truck many times each day
  • Completes assigned residential route daily, leaving the customers location free of debris
  • Professionally communicates with customers as needed
  • Notifies Route Manager/Dispatch of any accidents, injuries, property damage, or any other incidents
  • Notifies Route Manager/Dispatch of any service interruptions such as closed lots, blocked containers, safety hazards etc
  • Identifies and reports all containers in need of repair/replacement
  • Attends training programs, briefings, and meetings as required
  • Communicates customer requests to Route Manager/Dispatch
  • Immediately communicates mechanical problems to Mechanic and Supervisor
  • Maintains cleanliness of vehicle
  • Maintains professional appearance
Qualifications

The successful candidate profile includes:

  • Must possess a valid Class A or Class B CDL
  • 1-year experience operating a front end load truck preferred
  • 1-year experience in solid waste industry preferred
  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Must be able to pass criminal background check, physical and DOT drug screen
  • Must have safe driving record, including no avoidable accidents in the past five years
  • Must have ability to communicate professionally with customers, dispatch and internal customer service
  • Must be able to sit, kneel, crouch, stoop, crawl, balance, hear, talk and smell
  • Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds
  • May be required to work in emergency situations
  • Must be able to work 5 am 5 pm

At Priority Waste, there are fundamental qualities that we look for in all our employees:

  • People who excel in a collaborative environment (team players)
  • A willingness to do whatever the situation calls for
  • An excitement to be part of a growing organization
  • A genuine understanding that the quality of your work has a direct impact on the companys success

What Priority Waste employees say

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