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Heavy Equipment Loader Operator Jobs in Michigan

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Flint, MI · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions. Responsibilities

Hutch Paving

Heavy equipment operator

Warren, MI · On-site

Hutch Paving is currently seeking experienced Heavy Equipment Operators to join our team ... Load, move, and properly place demolition materials. * Perform site cleanup and preparation ...

Hutch Paving

Heavy equipment operator

Warren, MI · On-site

Hutch Paving is currently seeking experienced Heavy Equipment Operators to join our team ... Load, move, and properly place demolition materials. * Perform site cleanup and preparation ...

Levy

Heavy Equipment Operator, AGG

Burton, MI · On-site

$26/hr

The Heavy Equipment Operators perform all functions as it pertains to operating heavy off-road ... Load trucks and stockpile material * Unload rail cars and stockpile in correct material piles

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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.

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 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.

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 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, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavator / Loader / Skid Steer)

Hamtramck Recycling

Hamtramck, MI • On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavator / Loader / Skid Steer)
Location: Hamtramck Recycling – 3333 Hamtramck Dr, Hamtramck MI 48211
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Yard Supervisor / Operations Manager

Job Summary

Hamtramck Recycling & Transfer Station is seeking a skilled, safety-focused Heavy Equipment Operator to support day-to-day operations. In this role, you will operate loaders, skid steers, and other machinery to manage the flow of recyclable materials, load compactors, and help maintain a clean and efficient transfer station and recycling yard. This includes conducting pre- and post-operation checks, identifying and reporting equipment issues, and supporting safe and organized truck traffic throughout the facility.

Key Responsibilities

  • Equipment Operation: Operate heavy equipment such as front-end loaders, skid steers, and forklifts to move, stack, and load materials including plastics, cardboard, metals, construction, and cleanout debris.

  • Loading Compactors & Trailers: Efficiently load materials into compactors and transfer trailers. Monitor compactor performance and communicate with dispatch when loads are ready for transport.

  • Transfer Station Support: Keep tipping floors and loading areas clear of obstructions. Constantly manage the material flow to ensure a safe and efficient transfer of waste and recyclables.

  • Pre- and Post-Checks: Perform daily inspections of equipment before and after use. Check fluids, tire pressure, hydraulics, and safety features.

  • Issue Reporting: Identify any equipment malfunctions or concerns and immediately report them to supervisors or maintenance.

  • Material Handling: Assist with sorting and staging different material streams as needed. Ensure proper separation of recyclables from landfill waste.

  • Yard & Floor Maintenance: Clean around compactors, loading docks, and dumping areas. Keep the site organized and free from excess debris to prevent hazards.

  • Safety Compliance: Follow all OSHA regulations and site-specific safety protocols, including high-visibility wear, seat belt usage, and safe driving practices.

  • Team Communication: Work closely with truck drivers, scale house staff, and operations personnel to support smooth and timely material flow.

  • Documentation: Log machine hours, inspection checklists, material loads, and any incidents or near misses.

Qualifications

  • Experience: At least 1 year operating heavy equipment in a recycling yard, transfer station, or similar environment.

  • Certifications: Valid equipment certifications (e.g., loader, skid steer, forklift). CDL a plus.

  • Mechanical Awareness: Ability to recognize and report mechanical or operational issues with equipment.

  • Physical Fitness: Able to lift 50 lbs, operate equipment for extended periods, and work in all weather conditions.

  • Safety-Oriented: Strong understanding of safe machine operation, vehicle traffic awareness, and workplace safety.

  • Communication Skills: Capable of clear communication with coworkers and supervisors in a fast-paced environment.

  • Adaptability: Willingness to handle changing priorities and support other yard tasks when needed.

Preferred Skills

  • Experience operating CAT, CASE, Volvo, or Bobcat equipment

  • Knowledge of compactor operations and load balancing

  • Familiarity with recycling material types and contamination prevention

Education

  • High school diploma or equivalent required

  • Vocational or safety training in equipment operation preferred

What We Offer

  • Competitive wages and benefits

  • Opportunities for advancement

  • A stable, year-round work environment

  • A team-oriented, supportive workplace

Company Description

Hamtramck Recycling is a waste recycling company located in Hamtramck Michigan. Our facility sorts and recycles material from the industrial and commercial waste stream that would otherwise find its home in one of the states many landfills. Our company is making an impact not only in our local community but in the entire metro Detroit area.