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Loader Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Forklift Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$18 - $21.25/hr

Optimizing loads to ensure operational efficiency. Securing loads to the machine before transportation. Inspecting for damages to vehicles. Scheduling vehicles for maintenance and repairs. Operating ...

Forklift Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$18 - $21.25/hr

Optimizing loads to ensure operational efficiency. Securing loads to the machine before transportation. Inspecting for damages to vehicles. Scheduling vehicles for maintenance and repairs. Operating ...

Load and manage job files within the system to execute production orders * Monitor production to ... Experience operating laser cutting equipment or similar machinery * Experience in metal processing ...

Furnace Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

... Operator for various areas (Endothermic, Vacuum, Aluminum) to join the team at Stack. Day and Night ... Loads and unloads all furnaces * Changes time and temperature on all furnaces with minimum ...

Forklift Operator

Gladstone, OR · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Forklift Operator July 13, 2026 Located in Gladstone, OR Pay: 20-24 Job Full Description Forklift ... Load and unload trucks safely and efficiently. * Transport products to designated storage or ...

New

Load trucks according to delivery requirements, ensuring timely and accurate shipments. * Maintain proper inventory levels using Warehouse Management System (WMS) scan guns and tools, and assist with ...

Forklift Operator I

Donald, OR · On-site

$17.75 - $21/hr

Forklift Operator: Operates a forklift to lift, load, or move material. Inspects, maintains, and repairs forklift equipment as needed. Key competencies * Building Collaborative Relationships

Be Seen First

Operate heavy equipment such as dozers, loaders, backhoes, and excavators on construction sites ... Qualifications For Operators- * Proven experience in heavy equipment operation, including dozers ...

Be Seen First

Operate heavy equipment such as dozers, loaders, backhoes, and excavators on construction sites ... Qualifications For Operators- * Proven experience in heavy equipment operation, including dozers ...

Warehouse Operator

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$18.25 - $22/hr

Associates must efficiently and accurately load orders according to the appropriate doors and trailers. All shipping functions will be processed as defined by the Standard Operating Procedures.

Fork Lift Operator - Part Time

Portland, OR · On-site

$18 - $21.25/hr

Forklift Operators / Dock Workers / Part Time Join the Oak Harbor Freight Lines family, where ... Safely load and unload trailers using forklifts, pallet jacks, or hand trucks within specified ...

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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 Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for loader operator in Portland, OR is $21.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $23.75 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,779 per year, or $21 per hour.

Operator - Manufacturing

Pioneer Metal Finishing Jobs

Tualatin, OR • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Company Overview

Manufacturing Opportunity - 1st Shift (7:00 AM - 3:30 PM, Monday-Friday) Occasional Overtime 

Pay starting at: $20.00 - $22.00/hour Performance/Pay Review after 90 days + Same Day Pay + URGENT HIRING

Pioneer Metal Finishing is the leading surface engineering company in North America. For over 75 years, we've delivered consistent, quality metal finishing solutions for mission-critical applications. Our advanced surface modification technologies and scalable execution improve the performance of mission-critical products and enhance brand value for companies in the healthcare, aerospace, automotive, and industrial markets. We encourage you to learn more about opportunities with Pioneer Metal Finishing and join our team today!

Overview

The Line Op Trainee, works closely with Production Supervisor, Team Leads, Line Operators and Quality on coordinating priorities to maximize tank efficiency while meeting or exceeding required production schedules. Oversees process line activity to ensure highest quality end product.  Responsible for training material handlers and new line operators. Position is safety sensitive.

As a Line Op Trainee, you will:

  • Coordinate all loads with shift supervisor to maximize tank efficiency.
  • Make sure all loads are processed to their specific process recipes.  Inspect loads investigating deviations when required.
  • Must have general understanding of process line equipment, such as: rectifiers, pumps, chillers, computers, cranes, etc.
  • Take the initiative to use the dry erase board to document any necessary information and observe updated procedures.
  • Responsible for effective communication to other shift operators regarding load progress and what must be done in order to maintain shift consistency.
  • Question other operator's methods when necessary. Share your experience and knowledge with one another.
  • Process special loads using proper communication between Quality Assurance, supervisor and other line operators. Contact shift supervisor for special guidance when necessary.
  • Responsible for cleaning the contact pads on the work bars and tanks to ensure full electrical contact through the loads and making sure that load rectification starts as expected and that loads sit down in tanks as expected.
  • Responsible for reporting equipment problems to shift supervisor so proper maintenance requisition can be submitted.
  • Leads tank maintenance teams on a rotating schedule.

What to Expect on the Job:

  • Sharp parts, sharp tooling, heavy carts, occasional hot and cold temperature and humidity levels, heat from ovens, moderate noise levels, limited hand and air tool use, compressed air (must use hearing protection).
  • Must be able to lift 30-50 lbs. unassisted.
  • Must be able to differentiate between color variance.
  • Potential splash exposure near process lines.
  • Various chemicals used in process.
What we're Looking For:
  • Entry-level candidates welcome - no prior manufacturing experience required

  • Prior experince working with chemical processing or plating experince (higher wage offered with this experience)
  • Ability to read and understand work orders and safety instructions

  • Ability to communicate effectively in English

  • Strong work ethic and positive attitude

At Pioneer, safety is always our number one priority -  you'll be provided with all the necessary personal protective equipment to keep you safe and healthy. We also offer reimbursement programs for things like safety shoes, prescription safety glasses, and educational opportunities! 

Benefits Summary

We offer the following benefits to All Employees immediately upon hire:

  • Next-Day Pay: Don't wait for payday; access your daily pay the next day!
  • Quarterly Incentive Program: Paid based on hours worked and business results
  • Paid company holidays
  • Shift Differentials for 2nd and 3rd shift
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program
  • On-the-Job Training and Advancement Opportunities
  • Employee Recognition and Rewards Program
  • Fun Recognition Events and more!

Full-Time Employees (30 + hours per week) may participate in the following benefits:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (Eligibility begins on the 1stof the month, following your start date)
  • Paid Time Off: 80 Hours earned in your first year
  • Access to Garner Incentive or a Health Savings Account up to $3,000 annually
  • 401(k) plan with a company match of up to 2% of bi-weekly contribution
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Company-paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Additional benefits for employee purchase: life insurance, critical illness, voluntary accident, and accidental death & dismemberment
  • LiveHealth Online, virtual doctor visits
Employment Type: FULL_TIME