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Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Heavy Equipment Operator

Waterloo, NE

$23 - $28/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - Front-End Loader & Backhoe Position Overview We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our construction team. This full-time position is responsible for ...

PrimeCrew Solutions

Front-End Loader Operator

Morrisville, PA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

The Front-End Loader Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment to move, load, and transport materials safely and efficiently while maintaining a clean and organized work area. The ideal ...

Misti Pett

Heavy Equipment Operator

South Paris, ME · On-site

Basic Job Functions for Heavy Equipment Operator: Safety is the most important part of all jobs ... Operate mobile heavy equipment of various sizes and types (mobile shear, front end loader, wheel ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader Jobs

Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader information

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$28

How much do heavy equipment operator front end loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator front end loader 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, safety procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized training or certification. Familiarity with heavy equipment controls, maintenance systems, and sometimes GPS or telematics technology is typically required. Attention to detail, strong spatial awareness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient, and precise operation, reducing workplace accidents and maximizing productivity on construction or industrial sites.

How much does a front-end loader operator earn?

A front-end loader operator typically earns between $18 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often command higher wages, especially in construction and mining environments.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Heavy equipment operators, including front end loader operators, can earn around $700 a day with experience, overtime, or working in high-demand industries such as construction or mining. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in remote or hazardous environments often contribute to higher daily pay rates.

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

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator Front End LoaderExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often preferred, equipment-specific certificationsSimilar certifications, often requiring specialized training for excavators
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, loading docks, mining operationsConstruction sites, demolition, excavation projects
Industry UsageConstruction, mining, agricultureConstruction, demolition, utility work
Common Search/ComparisonHeavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader vs Excavator Operator

The main difference between a Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader and an Excavator Operator lies in the equipment they operate and their typical tasks. Front end loaders are primarily used for loading materials, moving earth, and site cleanup, while excavator operators handle digging, trenching, and demolition tasks. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, often within the construction and mining industries.

How hard is it to operate a front-end loader?

Operating a front-end loader as a heavy equipment operator requires training to learn controls, safety procedures, and proper techniques. While it involves coordination and attention to detail, with experience and instruction, most operators can become proficient. Certification and hands-on practice are essential for safe and effective operation.

What is the highest paying heavy equipment operator job?

The highest paying heavy equipment operator jobs typically involve specialized roles such as crane or excavator operators working in construction, mining, or oil and gas industries. These positions often require advanced certifications, experience, and operating large or complex machinery, which can lead to higher wages compared to standard front end loader operators.

What are some common challenges faced by Heavy Equipment Operators specializing in front end loaders, and how can they be addressed?

Heavy Equipment Operators working with front end loaders often encounter challenges such as operating in confined spaces, managing uneven terrain, and ensuring precise load placement. Weather conditions and maintaining clear communication with ground crews can also add complexity to the role. To address these challenges, operators must stay vigilant about safety protocols, participate in regular equipment maintenance, and engage in ongoing skills training. Effective teamwork and clear hand signals or radio communication help ensure smooth operations and reduce the risk of accidents.

What is a Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader?

A Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader is a skilled professional who operates large machinery known as front end loaders. These machines are typically used on construction sites, in mining operations, or in other industrial settings to move materials such as soil, gravel, sand, and debris. The operator is responsible for safely maneuvering the loader, performing routine maintenance checks, and following site safety protocols. Proper training and certification are usually required for this role to ensure both efficiency and safety.
More about Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader jobs
What cities are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader jobs? Cities with the most Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader job openings:
What states have the most Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader jobs are:
Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,188 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operator - Front End Loader

Heavy Equipment Operator - Front End Loader

Weihe Construction, Inc.

Indianapolis, IN

$25 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator - Front End Loader
NOTE: THIS IS NOT A WAREHOUSE POSITION
We are seeking skilled heavy equipment operators in the greater Indianapolis area.
Well qualified candidates will have a minimum of 2 years of experience operating Track Loader or Wheel Loader
Sought out skills include:
- Transporting Pipe on Forks
- Maintaining Material in Stone Box
- Transporting Supplies and Tools
- Mechanically inclined - daily/preventative maintenance
- Mass excavation/earth work experience in residential setting
- Excavator experience
Must be able to work Monday - Saturday, overtime if available
Must have valid state ID / reliable transportation
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Must be able to pass violent criminal background check
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Pay range: $25.00 - $34.00, based on experience
Benefits:
• Medical
• HSA
• Dental
• Vision
• Short-term disability
• Life insurance
• PTO
• Paid Holidays
• 401k match
• IRA

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