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Loader Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Loader Operator - Durango, CO 1

Durango, CO · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Overview Elam Consttruction, a divison of Summit Materials, is looking for a mechanically inclined, safety-oriented Loader Operator to operate Front End loaders in our Durango, Colorado Aggregate Pit.

Loader Operator - Durango, CO 1

Durango, CO · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Overview Elam Consttruction, a divison of Summit Materials, is looking for a mechanically inclined, safety-oriented Loader Operator to operate Front End loaders in our Durango, Colorado Aggregate Pit.

Loader Operator - Durango, CO 1

Durango, CO · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Overview Elam Consttruction, a divison of Summit Materials, is looking for a mechanically inclined, safety-oriented Loader Operator to operate Front End loaders in our Durango, Colorado Aggregate Pit.

... operated properly. * Prepares plant for operations at the beginning of each shift and performs shut down procedures at the end of day. * Operates front end loader, skid steer, and other equipment as ...

Loader Operator & Quality Control AMAT Montrose, Colorado, United States Job ID: 523991 United Companies, is a CRH Company. Our purpose, commitment to the future, and formula for growth is to ...

High School diploma or general education degree (GED) required. * 1-3 years of experience as a loader operator or other heavy equipment operation preferred. Work Requirements * Must be 18 years in ...

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Showing results 1-20

Loader Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$11

$20

$29

How much do loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for loader operator in Colorado is $20.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Loader Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectLoader OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, material handlingConstruction sites, mining, excavation projects
Job DutiesLoading materials, moving debris, site cleanupDigging trenches, lifting heavy materials, excavation

Both Loader Operators and Excavator Operators require similar certifications and work in construction or mining environments. The main difference lies in their specific tasks: Loader Operators focus on loading and moving materials, while Excavator Operators handle digging and excavation work.

What is the role of a loader operator?

A loader operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery such as front-end loaders, skid steers, or backhoes to load materials like soil, gravel, or debris into trucks or containers. They inspect equipment, follow safety protocols, and may need certifications or training to operate specific machinery. Their work is typically performed in construction, mining, or industrial settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Loader Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Loader Operator, you need expertise in operating heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a valid equipment operator’s license or certification. Familiarity with equipment such as front-end loaders, forklifts, and basic maintenance tools is important, as is adherence to safety protocols. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for preventing accidents and ensuring smooth operations. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, productivity, and minimizing downtime on construction or industrial sites.

What are some common challenges faced by Loader Operators on construction sites, and how can they be managed effectively?

Loader Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, managing heavy loads, and maintaining safety while operating machinery around other workers and equipment. Effective communication with site supervisors and other team members is essential to coordinate movements and avoid accidents. Regular equipment inspections and adherence to safety protocols help prevent breakdowns and injuries, ensuring smooth daily operations. Building experience and staying up to date with industry best practices can also make handling these challenges more manageable.

What is a Loader Operator?

A Loader Operator is a skilled equipment operator who uses heavy machinery, such as front-end loaders or wheel loaders, to move materials like soil, gravel, sand, or debris on construction sites, mines, or other work environments. Their responsibilities include loading and unloading materials, maintaining the equipment, and following safety protocols to ensure efficient and safe operations. Loader Operators often work closely with other construction or site workers to keep projects running smoothly.

How much does a load operator make?

A loader operator's average salary varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $15 to $25 per hour, with annual earnings between $30,000 and $50,000. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in operating heavy machinery can earn higher wages and may receive additional benefits based on the employer and industry sector.

Is a loader operator a good job?

A loader operator is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery such as loaders and excavators, often requiring certification and safety training. The job typically offers steady employment, physical activity, and the potential for overtime, making it a viable career option in construction, mining, and logistics industries.

What jobs pay 700 a day?

Loader operators in construction, mining, or heavy equipment industries can sometimes earn around $700 per day, especially with overtime, specialized skills, or in high-demand projects. High-paying roles often require certifications, experience, and operating heavy machinery in demanding environments.
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Loader Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Loader Operator job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,309 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Loader Operator - Dirt

Loader Operator - Dirt

Martin Marietta

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$27 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Martin Marietta Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

345th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Description
JOB SUMMARY
The Dirt Equipment Operator II is a skilled role responsible for the operation of medium-to-heavy earthmoving and soil-conditioning equipment specifically for the preparation of roadbeds, parking lots, and other surfaces prior to asphalt or concrete application.
The Dirt Operator II is expected to operate equipment with a high degree of precision, particularly in finish grading and sub-grade preparation. This individual ensures that the 'dirt' phase of the paving project meets exact specifications for slope, elevation, and compaction, directly impacting the quality and longevity of the final paved surface.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operate a variety of heavy equipment including, but not limited to, Motor Graders (finish grade), Dozers (with GPS/LPS integration), Backhoes, Skid Steers, and Pad-foot/Smooth Drum Rollers.
  • Execute fine grading of sub-grade and base materials to within strict tolerances (typically within 0.1 foot) to prepare for asphalt or concrete paving.
  • Efficiently spread, level, and smooth dirt, gravel, or stone to the required depth and slope.
  • Operate tamping and rolling equipment to ensure soil density meets engineering requirements, preventing future settling or pavement failure.
  • Read and interpret construction stakes, grade markers, and blueprints to determine cut-and-fill requirements without constant supervision.
  • Utilize and troubleshoot onboard grade-control technologies to maintain automated precision during the grading process.
  • Identify and avoid underground and overhead utilities (water, gas, electric) through the study of 'One-Call' markings and site maps.
  • Conduct thorough 'Walk-Around' inspections daily. Document and report any mechanical deficiencies, fluid leaks, or safety hazards to the maintenance department immediately.
  • Perform basic field maintenance, including greasing joints, cleaning tracks/undercarriages, checking oil/coolant levels, and ensuring cabs are kept in a professional, clean condition.
  • Assist in the loading and unloading of equipment onto lowboy trailers and secure loads according to DOT and company standards.
  • Adhere strictly to Martin Marietta's 'Guardian Angel' safety culture. Ensure all tasks are performed in compliance with OSHA regulations.
  • Actively participate in daily safety meetings. Identify potential hazards such as unstable slopes, blind spots, or ground crew proximity.
  • Assist in the setting up of work zone traffic control (cones, signs, flagging) to ensure a safe buffer between heavy machinery and public or site traffic.
  • Assist in the training of Operators and Laborers on safe machine operation and basic grading techniques.
  • Communicate effectively with dump truck drivers, laborers, and paving crews via hand signals or two-way radio to maintain a continuous, efficient workflow.

QUALIFICATIONS
Education
High school diploma, GED, or relevant experience
Work Experience
1+ years of Heavy Equipment Operation experience, specifically in a dirt/grading or paving environment.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
OSHA compliance and regulations
Mechanical aptitude
Technical aptitude
Detail oriented
Time management
Effective communicator (written and spoken)
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Physical Requirements
Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. for plant maintenance and equipment servicing.
Required to bend, stoop, climb, and reach. You must be able to maintain three points of contact when climbing on/off machinery or on ladders.
Strong hand-eye-foot coordination is essential for operating hand/foot controls. You must have good depth perception with or without seeing aid for distances up to 150 feet.
Working Conditions
All duties require outside assignments and require periods of work in all weather conditions, cold, wet, dry and dusty. Must be able to work in areas where noise levels are up to 85 dbs.
The hiring range for this position is $27 -$36 exclusive of benefits or bonuses (discretionary and non-discretionary). The offered base compensation will be determined based on factors such as geographic location, business need, market conditions, proficiencies, skills, education, and experience. Additionally, at Martin Marietta we place a high value on internal pay equity and will consider the compensation for those in similarly situated roles and direct team members. The hiring range for this role represents the base compensation we expect to pay for the position at time of hire and does not represent the total possible base pay of the position.
In addition to our base compensation, we also offer a competitive benefits package for full-time employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage; prescription drug coverage; health savings accounts; flexible spending accounts; life, AD&D and disability insurance; 401(k) with a company match and an employer-funded defined benefit pension plan. Other benefits include paid time off, paid holidays, education/tuition assistance, an employee discount program, adoption assistance, wellness programs and more.
Part time employees are eligible to participate in the 401k plan and receive a company match. In addition, they are eligible to start accruing service for the pension plan.
A member of the S&P 500 Index, Martin Marietta is an American-based company and a leading supplier of heavy building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready-mixed concrete and asphalt. Through a network of operations spanning 28 states, Canada and the Bahamas, dedicated Martin Marietta teams supply the foundational resources upon which our communities thrive. Martin Marietta's Magnesia Specialties business produces high-purity magnesia and dolomitic lime products used worldwide in environmental, industrial, agricultural and specialty applications.
At Martin Marietta, we strive to work with the best and the brightest - those who have the potential to become our company's future leaders. Each of our roughly 9,500 people shares a common purpose regardless of their professional role or work environment. Together, we utilize our diverse skills and experiences to drive our company and its extraordinary culture forward. Our aim is to build on our foundation of success and help values-driven and hardworking people realize their full potential. When you decide to invest your career in Martin Marietta, you'll know what it's like to be respected, challenged and rewarded.
In return, we offer a highly competitive benefits package, including:
  • Medical
  • Prescription Drug
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Health Care Reimbursement Account
  • Dependent Care Reimbursement Account
  • Wellness Programs
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Paid Holidays and Vacation
  • 401(k) with Company matching
  • Pension
  • Salary Continuation - Short-Term Disability
  • Long-Term Disability Options
  • Employee Life Insurance
  • Spouse & Dependent Life Insurance
  • Business Travel Accident Insurance
  • Direct Deposit Payroll
  • Educational/Tuition Assistance Plan
  • College Scholarship Program - for dependent children
  • Matching Gift Program
  • New Auto Purchase Discount Plans

At Martin Marietta, we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all qualified applicants and teammates. We celebrate diversity and commit that qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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About Martin Marietta

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Martin Marietta is an American-based company and a leading supplier of building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready mixed concrete and asphalt.

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1994