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Loader Operator Jobs in Spokane, WA (NOW HIRING)

Summary: Operates overhead cranes, hostler, and forklift to move, and position loads of steel within the production yard and facility. Benefits Health, dental, and vision insurance Employee ...

Loader - Swing Shift

Airway Heights, WA · On-site

$20 - $28.25/hr

Summary: Operates overhead cranes, hostler, and forklift to move, and position loads of steel within the production yard and facility. Benefits Health, dental, and vision insurance Employee ...

Rooftop Loader

Spokane, WA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Load and unload roofing materials from delivery trucks using manual and mechanical methods ... Should be physically fit, capable of lifting heavy items up to 100 lbs. and operating machinery.

Loader 1st Shift

Spokane, WA · On-site

$21.50/hr

Load windows, glass and doors from production floor to designated trailers by hand * Efficiently notate and record exceptions in count or condition of shipments to reduce delivery delays and customer ...

Roof Loader - Building Materials

Spokane, WA · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Roof Loader With all your career options, why not choose a company where you can own part of the business? MacArthur Co. is 100% Employee-Owned and offers an outstanding suite of employee benefits.

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Loader Operator information

See Spokane, WA salary details

$11

$20

$28

How much do loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for loader operator in Spokane, WA is $20.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $22.60 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 Spokane, WA are hiring for Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Spokane, WA with the most Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Loader Operator job openings in Spokane, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,646 per year, or $20 per hour.
Loader - Swing Shift

Loader - Swing Shift

Innovative Solutions & Support

Airway Heights, WA • On-site

$20 - $28.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Loader - Swing Shift

Salary Range $20.00 - $28.25 Hourly Position Type Full Time Education Level High School Category Manufacturing

Description

Summary: Operates overhead cranes, hostler, and forklift to move, and position loads of steel within the production yard and facility.

Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Growth and advancement opportunities

Location: Airway Heights, WA Pay: $20.00 – $28.25 per hour Job Type: Full-Time

Most employees start between $20.00 and $24.00 per hour. The higher end of the range, $28.25 per hour, is reserved for candidates with exceptional experience or qualifications.

Shift: Mon-Fri, 2:45 PM - 11:15 PM

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Actively participate in Seaport Steel's Safety Program.
  • Load trailers using a hostler, forklift, and crane.
  • Review work order paperwork to ensure load accuracy.
  • Unload incoming trailers and railcars.
  • Observe load hookups and assess load safety.
  • Operate crane controls to regulate the speed and direction of crane and hoist movement.
  • Select and use appropriate hoisting attachments (e.g., hooks, slings, buckets) based on load requirements.
  • Clean and maintain the crane and hoisting equipment.
  • Inspect cranes for defects and report any issues or malfunctions to a supervisor.
Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.

Ability to write simple correspondence.

Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, and other employees of the organization.

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.

Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret graphs.

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions.

Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.