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Loader Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Loader Operator I

Portland, OR

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

At IAA Loader Operators are essential to the success of our branch operations. They utilize our front-end loaders to maneuver vehicles around our facilities in preparation for auction. While Loader ...

Loader Operator I

Portland, OR · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

At IAA Loader Operators are essential to the success of our branch operations. They utilize our front-end loaders to maneuver vehicles around our facilities in preparation for auction. While Loader ...

Loader

Portland, OR · On-site

$23.50/hr

Load and unload route delivery trucks and trailers with products manually and/or with forklift. * Input product loads in and out of inventory system. * Participate in daily inventory activities ...

Loader

Portland, OR · On-site

$23.50/hr

Load and unload route delivery trucks and trailers with products manually and/or with forklift. * Input product loads in and out of inventory system. * Participate in daily inventory activities ...

Be Seen First

A well-established lumberyard in Hillsboro is looking for an Experienced Forklift Operator / Load Builder to join their team. If you have experience operating a forklift in a lumberyard, construction ...

Loads and unloads materials onto or from pallets, trucks or customer vehicles and installs strapping, bracing or padding to prevent shifting or damage in transit. * Performs load-building ...

Warehouse Loader (Night Shift)

Clackamas, OR

$19.75 - $23.50/hr

... load and unload tractor-trailer trucks per P.O requirements Process and re-stock returns if ... operating a forklift in a safe and lawful manner; handling customers' products safely and ...

Warehouse Loader (Night Shift)

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$19.75 - $23.50/hr

... load and unload tractor-trailer trucks per P.O requirements • Process and re-stock returns if ... operating a forklift in a safe and lawful manner; handling customers' products safely and ...

You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ... Forklift operator certificate or satisfactory completion of a forklift-training program within the ...

Forklift Operator

Gresham, OR · On-site

$24.75/hr

Operating Electric sit down forklift 90% of the time Position: 1st shift forklift operator Shift ... You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ...

Forklift Operator

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$21.02 - $23.27/hr

The accuracy of loads is key to save time and money for the company, so the load builder is an important component of the Parr team. As needed, the Forklift Operator assists other yard employees. The ...

Forklift Operator

Gresham, OR · On-site

$24.75/hr

Operating Electric sit down forklift 90% of the time Position: 1st shift forklift operator Shift ... You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ...

The accuracy of loads is key to save time and money for the company, so the load builder is an important component of the Parr team. As needed, the Forklift Operator assists other yard employees. The ...

Forklift Operator

Gresham, OR · On-site

$24.75/hr

Operating Pallet Jack and Sit Down Forklift Electric, Clamp experience preferred. and other ... You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ...

Operating Pallet Jack and Sit Down Forklift Electric, Clamp experience preferred. and other ... You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ...

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Loader Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11

$21

$30

How much do loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for loader operator in Portland, OR is $21.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.46 and $24.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Loader operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with specialized roles like oil rig workers, high-level contractors, or certain executive positions. These roles often require extensive experience, certifications, or working in high-risk environments with long hours or hazardous conditions.

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, excavators, or skid-steer loaders to move materials like soil, gravel, or debris. They inspect equipment, follow safety protocols, and often need certification or training to operate specific machinery efficiently and safely.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A loader operator can earn around $10,000 a month with experience, especially in high-demand industries like construction, mining, or logistics. Achieving this income typically requires specialized skills, certifications, and working in roles with long hours or hazardous conditions.

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.

Is a Loader Operator a good job?

A Loader Operator is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery such as loaders and excavators to move materials. The job typically offers steady employment, requires safety training and certifications, and can involve working outdoors in various weather conditions. It can be a good career choice for those interested in construction, mining, or logistics industries.
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Loader Operator job openings in Portland, OR 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 $44,568 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Loader Operator I

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 16 rated auctioneers


Job description

IAA, an RB Global, Inc. company is seeking a Loader Operator to join our team. At IAA Loader Operators are essential to the success of our branch operations. They utilize our front-end loaders to maneuver vehicles around our facilities in preparation for auction.  

While Loader Operators always focus on safety first, they understand the importance of a quick and smooth operation. As the frontline of IAA, this critical role enjoys learning new ways to use technology and being at the forefront of the auction industry in all our tools and resources.

IAA Holdings, LLC (IAA)


IAA Holdings, LLC (IAA), a Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers company (NYSE: RBA) and (TSX: RBA), is a trusted global marketplace for insights, services, and transaction solutions for commercial assets and vehicles. Leveraging leading-edge technology and focusing on innovation, IAA's unique platform facilitates the marketing and sale of total-loss, damaged and low-value vehicles. IAA serves a global buyer base - located throughout over 170 countries - and a full spectrum of sellers, including insurers, dealerships, fleet lease and rental car companies, and charitable organizations. Buyers have access to multiple digital bidding and buying channels, innovative vehicle merchandising, and efficient evaluation services, enhancing the overall purchasing experience. IAA offers sellers a comprehensive suite of services aimed at maximizing vehicle value, reducing administrative costs, shortening selling cycle time and delivering the highest economic returns.

RB Global full-time employees are offered medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurances. Employees are able to enroll in our company's 401k plan and RB Global will match 100% for the first 4% contributed.  Employees will also receive 15 days of PTO each year.


About the team - Yard Operations 

We conduct hundreds of live auctions each year around the world. It takes a hardworking team of energetic people in a wide variety of full-time and part-time roles to conduct a successful multi-million dollar auction - from equipment inspectors, yard managers and operators to administrative staff and customer service representatives.

A day in the life:

  • Utilizing a front-end loader to move vehicles and other equipment around the IAA facility
  • Loading and unloading trucks as they deliver or pick up vehicles
  • Making sure our equipment is fully functional, by performing routine inspections and basic maintenance and ensuring the safe operating condition of the loader
  • Being responsible for lot inventory of vehicles and parts
  • Documenting and recording vehicle information, performing vehicle improvements (i.e shrink wrapping, steam cleaning, etc.), and light maintenance in preparation for sale
  • Assisting visitors by providing appropriate guidance and/or advising them to the appropriate person for additional assistance
  • Remaining calm, alert, and actively avoiding potential safety hazards or situations that may cause damage to property while operating a front-end loader or other heavy equipment
  • Constantly maintaining a safe work environment by immediately reporting any violations of company policy to a supervisor or manager

First, let us double-check:

  • Our requirements are that all candidates for this role must have a valid drivers' license and high school diploma (or equivalent). There are physical demands of this role, so please read them carefully and understand that this is no desk job.
  • An upbeat demeanor to ensure every customer interaction is positive is necessary! If you know about cars or have general mechanical knowledge, you will fit in great. Teamwork is incredibly important to our success!
  • While it is not required, it would be great if you have:
  • Candidates with a forklift or front-end loader (Volvo L90G and L90H) operating experience have found this role to be an exceptionally great fit. Experience in the automotive and collision repair and/or related field is strongly preferred.

Physical Demand Highlights:

  • Ability to apply appropriate use of security, maintenance, and safety procedures to protect Company and customer assets
  • Ability to apply appropriate use of personal protective equipment (i.e., safety gloves, safety glasses)
  • Ability to avoid accidents by recognizing potentially unsafe situations and responding appropriately when accidents occur
  • Ability to follow appropriate industry-specific regulations related to the handling of hazardous materials
  • Ability to constantly lift, carry, push, or pull up to 20 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull over 100 lbs.
  • Ability to constantly reach outward, handle and finger objects, stand, walk, and sit
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat, kneel, twist, turn, climb, and crawl
  • This position involves primarily outdoor work in all types of weather
  • Must remain alert to potential hazards associated with heavy equipment and other vehicles operated in their work area

Working Conditions:

  • This position involves primarily outdoor work in all types of weather
  • Must remain alert to potential hazards associated with heavy equipment and other vehicles operated in their work area

What Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers employees say

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