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Hourly Pit Loader Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Night Shift Forklift Operator

Alcoa, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

MARS Solutions Group is looking for an experienced Night Shift Forklift Operator located in Alcoa ... Strong knowledge of warehouse safety, PIT operation standards, and load stability principles.

Forklift Operator I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Knoxville Pay Range: 18.00 - 19.00 Hourly, depending on experience Schedule: 1st shift schedule ... the use of a PIT Forklift, such as building pallets, inbound unloading, outbound loading ...

Forklift Operator I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Knoxville Pay Range: 18.00 - 19.00 Hourly , depending on experience Schedule: 1st shift schedule ... Load outbound product and/or deposit items by transporting from their assigned storage area within ...

Forklift Operator I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Knoxville Pay Range: 18.00 - 19.00 Hourly , depending on experience Schedule: 1st shift schedule ... Load outbound product and/or deposit items by transporting from their assigned storage area within ...

Forklift Operator I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Knoxville Pay Range: 18.00 - 19.00 Hourly , depending on experience Schedule: 1st shift schedule ... Load outbound product and/or deposit items by transporting from their assigned storage area within ...

Load raw materials into machines and unload finished products. * Monitor production output and ... Competitive hourly wage with opportunities for advancement. * Comprehensive training and ...

Overview As a Forklift Operator , you'll get to load and unload trailer with wooden pallets and ... Hourly Pay: $18.00/hr. Shift(s): 1st Shift: Monday-Friday 7:00am-3:30pm Location: Knoxville, TN ...

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Hourly Pit Loader Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do hourly pit loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for hourly pit loader operator in Oak Ridge, TN is $18.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Hourly Pit Loader Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectHourly Pit Loader OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, possibly certification in equipment operationHigh school diploma, certification or licensing often required
Work EnvironmentMining sites, construction sites, industrial facilitiesConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projects
Industry UsageCommonly used in mining, quarrying, and industrial operationsUsed across construction, mining, and infrastructure industries

While both roles involve operating heavy machinery in industrial settings, the Hourly Pit Loader Operator specifically focuses on loading materials in mining or quarry environments, often requiring specialized training for loaders. The Heavy Equipment Operator has a broader scope, operating various types of heavy machinery across multiple industries. Both roles require safety certifications and hands-on experience, but the Pit Loader Operator is more specialized in material loading tasks within mining operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an hourly pit loader operator?

To thrive as an Hourly Pit Loader Operator, you need experience with heavy equipment operation, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a valid operator’s license or certification. Familiarity with loader controls, safety protocols, and maintenance systems like pre-shift inspections is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work independently in outdoor environments are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, efficient material handling and contribute to overall site productivity and safety.

What is an hourly pit loader operator?

An Hourly Pit Loader Operator is a worker responsible for operating heavy machinery, such as loaders, in mining pits, quarries, or construction sites. Their main task is to load materials like rock, sand, or gravel into trucks or onto conveyors for transport. They must follow safety protocols, perform routine equipment checks, and may assist with basic maintenance. This position is typically paid by the hour and requires attention to detail and adherence to operational procedures.

What are some common challenges hourly pit loader operators face and how can they be overcome?

Hourly Pit Loader Operators often encounter challenges such as working in variable weather conditions, managing equipment maintenance, and maintaining safety in active mining or construction sites. Staying alert, following strict safety protocols, and maintaining clear communication with team members are essential for minimizing risks. Regular equipment inspections and quick reporting of mechanical issues also help prevent downtime and ensure a safer work environment. Proactively addressing these challenges contributes to smoother operations and supports career growth within the company.
What job categories do people searching Hourly Pit Loader Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Hourly Pit Loader Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Hourly Pit Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Hourly Pit Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Hourly Pit Loader Operator job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,739 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Loader Operator - TN Knoxville

Smyrna Ready Mix, LLC

Knoxville, TN

$16 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Do you love running big machines and being part of a team that gets the job done? At SRM Concrete, we’re looking for hands-on, hard-working people to join us as Loader Operators. If you take pride in a good day’s work, enjoy driving heavy equipment, and want to help build the future of your community, this is the job for you.


  • Take the wheel of powerful front-end loaders and other heavy equipment to move sand, gravel, and cement around the plant—keeping our concrete flowing and our operations moving.
  • Load and unload trucks, hoppers, bins, and conveyors so our team always has the materials they need.
  • Work side-by-side with your crew and production team to keep things running on schedule.
  • Check your equipment before and after each shift, and let the team know if something needs fixing—your safety and theirs comes first.
  • Follow all safety rules, wear your gear, and help keep the plant a safe place for everyone.
  • Pitch in to keep your work area clean and organized—because a tidy site is a safer site.
  • Help count inventory and make sure we never run low on the materials that keep us going.
  • Share your ideas with plant leaders and help us get better every day.
  • Be ready to lend a hand wherever you’re needed—whether it’s helping a teammate or jumping in on a tough job.

  • Experience running loaders or other big machines is great, but if you’re willing to learn and work hard, we’ll train you.
  • Valid Driver’s License.
  • You care about safety—yours and your team’s—and you’re not afraid to speak up if something’s not right.
  • You know how to check your equipment and handle basic fixes.
  • You’re a team player who communicates well and shows up ready to work.
  • You’re physically able to handle a job that keeps you moving in all kinds of weather.
  • High school diploma or equivalent is helpful, but not required.
  • Willingness to complete our pre-employment screenings.
  • You live by our 5 Principles of Service: Safety, Quality, Kindness, Cleanliness, and Go-Getter.

SRM Concrete (Smyrna Ready Mix) is a family-owned, values-driven leader in the ready mix concrete industry. Founded in 1999 with a single plant in Smyrna, Tennessee, we’ve grown to over 600 locations nationwide by focusing on quality, integrity, and service. Our mission is to serve our customers, our communities, and our team members with excellence—every load, every day.

Why Join SRM Concrete?
  • Operate Big Equipment, Make a Big Difference: As a Loader Operator, you’ll get to run powerful machines and play a vital part in keeping our concrete plants moving every day.
  • Local Work, Home Daily: Enjoy steady, reliable work with the benefit of being home after every shift. We’re closed every Sunday so you can count on time for yourself and your family.
  • Growth & Advancement: Be part of a rapidly expanding company with real opportunities to learn new skills and grow your career.
  • Competitive Compensation: Hourly pay with overtime after 8 hours, plus eligibility for bonuses and annual raises. If your region slows down, we offer opportunities nationwide to keep you working.
  • Exceptional Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package including low-cost medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, and life insurance; paid holidays; PTO and vacation programs; 401k with $100 weekly match; family days; and more!
  • Team Culture: At SRM Concrete, we value hard work, respect, and teamwork. We support each other, recognize a job well done, and believe in doing what’s right—on the job and in the community. You’ll find a straightforward, dependable environment where every team member matters.

At SRM Concrete, you’re more than a Loader Operator—you’re a valued team member helping to build America’s future. If you’re ready to say “YES” to new opportunities and deliver service that sets the standard in our industry, apply today and join the SRM family!