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Heavy Equipment Loader Operator Jobs in Michigan

Copart, Inc.

Loader Operator

Wayland, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

The Loader Operator will be responsible for moving and loading vehicles with a company-provided ... Ability to operate heavy equipment. * Must be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.

Copart, Inc.

Loader Operator

Wayland, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

The Loader Operator will be responsible for moving and loading vehicles with a company-provided ... Ability to operate heavy equipment. * Must be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.

Clark Companies

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lansing, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Location: Lansing, MI Pay: $25-$35/ HR Operate Modern Equipment on High ... Operate excavators, loaders, dozers, skid steers, and other heavy equipment * Perform excavation ...

CRIPPS FONTAINE EXCAVATING

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Position Must have knowledge and experience running * Excavator ... Loader * Skidsteer * Roller CDL Class A possession is a plus, experience with GPS on equipment is ...

CRIPPS FONTAINE EXCAVATING

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Position Must have knowledge and experience running * Excavator ... Loader * Skidsteer * Roller CDL Class A possession is a plus, experience with GPS on equipment is ...

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Heavy Equipment Loader Operator information

What does a heavy equipment loader operator do?

A Heavy Equipment Loader Operator is responsible for operating large machinery—such as front-end loaders—to move materials like soil, gravel, sand, and debris on construction sites, quarries, and other work environments. They load materials into trucks, feed machinery, and help prepare and clean job sites. Operators must follow safety protocols, perform routine equipment inspections, and sometimes assist with minor maintenance. The role requires good hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, and knowledge of machinery operation and site safety regulations.

Are heavy equipment loader operator jobs in demand?

Heavy equipment loader operator jobs are generally in demand due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and industrial development. Employers seek skilled operators with certifications and experience to operate loaders safely and efficiently, supporting a steady job market in the construction and mining sectors.

What are some common safety challenges faced by heavy equipment loader operators, and how can they be managed on the job?

Heavy Equipment Loader Operators often encounter safety challenges such as working in close proximity to other machinery, managing blind spots, and ensuring stable loads. To manage these risks, operators should consistently follow site-specific safety protocols, perform daily equipment inspections, and maintain clear communication with ground crews using hand signals or radios. Additionally, staying up-to-date with required certifications and participating in regular safety training sessions can greatly reduce the likelihood of workplace incidents.

Which heavy equipment loader operator job pays the most?

Heavy equipment loader operators working in specialized industries such as mining, oil and gas, or construction in high-demand regions tend to earn the highest wages. Factors like experience, certifications, and operating advanced machinery can also increase earning potential, with some roles paying over $25 an hour or more. Typically, jobs requiring additional skills or working in remote or hazardous environments offer higher pay.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Loader Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectHeavy Equipment Loader OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often preferred, equipment-specific certificationsOperator certifications for excavators, often OSHA-compliant
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, material handlingConstruction, demolition, excavation projects
Industry UsageHeavy equipment operation across construction, mining, agriculturePrimarily excavation and trenching in construction and infrastructure

While both roles involve operating heavy machinery, a Heavy Equipment Loader Operator primarily handles loaders for moving materials, whereas an Excavator Operator specializes in operating excavators for digging and trenching. Both require similar certifications and work in construction or mining environments, but their equipment and specific tasks differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy equipment loader operator?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Loader Operator, you need proficiency in operating loaders, understanding safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with on-the-job training or specialized certification. Familiarity with equipment controls, maintenance systems, and sometimes GPS or telematics tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills help operators work efficiently and safely on busy job sites. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining productivity, preventing accidents, and ensuring the smooth operation of construction or industrial projects.

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Loader Operator jobs in Michigan?

For Heavy Equipment Loader Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Loader Operator jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Loader Operator jobs in Michigan are:

Heavy Equipment Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Loader Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Heavy Equipment / Loader Operator - Graveyard shift

LIGNETICS INC

White Pigeon, MI

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Lignetics rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description

Woodyard Loader Operator

Job Type: Full Time

Shift Schedule: 6pm-6am 4 days a week - One day off each week - 8 hr OT

Salary: $19-21/hour

** Pre-employment background check and drug screen required.


Woodyard Loader Operator Job Duties:

Raw Material Material Mixing and Intake Process

  • Mix material per specification to ensure production is set up for upcoming days to ensure proper blend and moisture content.
  • Receiving incoming loads of raw materials and separate by species
  • Inspect quality of raw material to standard and notify plant leadership of any defects
  • Load infeed bin per production schedule requirements
  • Will cross train and help out other positions (Packaging, Clean up, Forklift) as needed
  • Conduct loader inspections and perform loader maintenance
  • Communicate with co-workers regarding status of work flow
  • Other accountabilities as required


Woodyard Loader Operator Requirements


  • One to two years loader operation experience in an industrial setting highly preferred
  • Will need to be willing to help out with other positions as well.  I.E. Packaging line, Forklift, Clean up, etc. 
  • Will need good eye, hand and foot coordination
  • Will need the ability to concentrate for extended periods of time and multi-task
  • Will need to lift, push, or pull up to 50 lbs on a repetitive basis and stand and sit for long periods of time
  • Will need to climb up and down stairs to get in and out of loader with no fear of confined spaces or heights
  • Requires the ability to do simple math calculations, use basic tools, and exhibit mechanical aptitude when conducting loader maintenance

Woodyard Loader Operator Benefits:

  • Employee referral bonus program
  • 2 weeks paid time off + 2 floating holidays
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (FSA & HSA options)
  • Educational assistance
  • Life insurance, short term & long-term disability
  • 401(k) with employer match & immediate vesting
  • Employee heating pellet program
  • Lignetics SWAG gear to include an annual pair of work boots & other PPE 


Lignetics believes that all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunity (EEO) and does not discriminate against its employees or applicants because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, or on any other protected status under state, local or federal law. Equal employment opportunity is extended to all persons in all aspects of the employer-employee relationship, including, but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, transfer, discipline, layoff, recall and termination.


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