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Pay Loader Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator I / Loader

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

The Forklift Operator I is responsible for utilizing the lift equipment to move, load, unload, and ... pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the ...

Scale Operator

Nashville, TN

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

As a Weighmaster you will be responsible for the weighing and grading of incoming scrap loads ... Weekly Pay * Referral Incentives * Company provided uniforms and PPE * Eligible for Safety and ...

Scale Operator

Nashville, TN

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

As a Weighmaster you will be responsible for the weighing and grading of incoming scrap loads ... Weekly Pay * Referral Incentives * Company provided uniforms and PPE * Eligible for Safety and ...

Scale Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Weekly Pay * Referral Incentives * Company provided uniforms and PPE * Eligible for Safety and ... Review, inspect, and document inbound loads. * Direct drivers to the proper yard location for ...

Rail Car Loader ($19.73 - $20.13 starting pay) The Rail Car Loader supports bulk truck and railcar loading operations by safely operating loading equipment, following production schedules, and ...

Forklift Operator

Vonore, TN · On-site

$19.55/hr

... break -Pay: $19.55 per hour shift diff 1.25 per Hour In addition to the general below, the ideal ... You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ...

Forklift Operator

Vonore, TN · On-site

$19.55/hr

... break -Pay: $19.55 per hour shift diff .75 per Hour In addition to the general below, the ideal ... You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ...

Twinsburg, OH Pay Rate: $16-$19 per hour We are looking for skilled and safety-conscious Forklift ... This position involves operating forklifts and other equipment to move, load, and unload materials ...

Forklift Operator

Vonore, TN · On-site

$19.55/hr

... break -Pay: $19.55 per hour shift diff .75 per Hour In addition to the general below, the ideal ... You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ...

Forklift Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

$20.35/hr

Overtime required based on business needs Pay: $20.35 per hour Shift differential: $1.00 Required ... You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ...

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Pay Loader Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$17

$25

How much do pay loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for pay loader operator in Tennessee is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Pay Loader Operators on construction sites?

Pay Loader Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight or uneven job sites, working in variable weather conditions, and coordinating with multiple teams to ensure efficient material handling. Adhering to strict safety protocols while maintaining productivity can also be demanding, especially during peak construction periods. Effective communication with supervisors and other equipment operators is essential to prevent delays and ensure the safe movement of materials.

What are Pay Loader Operators?

Pay Loader Operators are skilled workers who operate pay loaders, also known as front-end loaders or wheel loaders. These heavy equipment machines are used to move, load, and transport materials such as soil, gravel, sand, and debris on construction sites, in mines, or at other industrial locations. Operators are responsible for safely maneuvering the machine, performing routine maintenance checks, and ensuring efficient operation according to safety standards. They often work closely with other construction or site workers to support various project needs.

How much do loader operators make a year?

Loader operators typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $35,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in operating heavy machinery can earn higher wages, especially in construction, mining, or industrial settings.

What does a pay loader do?

A pay loader operator operates heavy machinery called pay loaders or front-end loaders to move and load materials such as soil, gravel, or debris. They typically work in construction, mining, or landscaping environments and need to be skilled in operating the equipment safely and efficiently. Certification and knowledge of safety protocols are often required.

What is the highest paid machine operator?

Pay loader operators, a type of heavy equipment operator, can earn high wages depending on experience, location, and industry. In general, experienced operators working in construction, mining, or oil and gas sectors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $60,000 annually, with specialized skills and certifications increasing earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Pay Loader Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety regulations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by relevant vocational training. Familiarity with pay loader controls, basic mechanical systems, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA safety or equipment-specific licensure are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, accurate, and efficient operation of machinery in construction, mining, or warehouse environments.

What is the difference between Pay Loader Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectPay Loader OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often preferred, safety certificationsSimilar certifications, including safety and equipment operation licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, material handlingConstruction sites, excavation projects, demolition
Job DutiesLoading/unloading materials, moving earth, site cleanupDigging trenches, lifting heavy materials, excavation tasks

Both Pay Loader Operators and Excavator Operators work in construction and mining environments, often requiring similar certifications. The main difference lies in their equipment: Pay Loader Operators handle loaders for loading and moving materials, while Excavator Operators operate excavators for digging and excavation tasks.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Pay loader operators typically do not earn $2,000 a day; their wages depend on experience, location, and project scope. High-paying roles in construction or mining may reach such daily rates, especially for specialized or overtime work, but these are less common and often require advanced skills or certifications.
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Pay Loader Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Pay Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Pay Loader Operator job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,382 per year, or $18 per hour.
Forklift Operator I / Loader

Forklift Operator I / Loader

Kencogroup

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Kenco Group rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

230th of 341 rated logistics


Job description

At Kenco Logistics, you're more than just a team member-you're part of a company that values innovation, integrity, and a strong commitment to its people. As one of the leading 3PL providers in the U.S., Kenco offers a dynamic and supportive work environment where your ideas matter and your growth is a priority. With a focus on safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement, Kenco empowers employees to make a real impact in the supply chain industry while building rewarding careers. Join a company where your contributions help move the world forward-one shipment at a time.

About the Position

The Forklift Operator I is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of Powered Industrial Equipment. The Forklift Operator I is responsible for utilizing the lift equipment to move, load, unload, and stack products in preparation for shipping and receiving demands to meet customer needs.

Functions
  • Safely operate Powered Industrial equipment to move products or materials for distribution such as standard sit-down or stand-up forklifts, clamp, and picker equipment.
  • Load, unload, and store products and/or materials
  • Stack and/or transport materials and products to designated areas.
  • Use equipment to scan product and print labels
  • Complete paperwork and operate inventory management systems as needed.
  • Ensure product rotation procedures are followed.
  • Complete cycle count as required
  • Perform daily safely inspections per the Safety Checklist on forklift trucks
  • Ensure facility is inspection ready at all times for SQFI, FDA, and customer needs.
  • Communicate and report any incidents to supervisor.
  • May perform housekeeping duties
  • Miscellaneous tasks as assigned by Supervisor
Qualifications
  • Minimum two years prior forklift operating experience. Must be a licensed forklift operator or be able to obtain a Forklift Operator license.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Pass Background and Drug screen
  • Basic computer skills
  • Attention to detail
Competencies
  • Action Oriented - Taking on new opportunities and touch challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.
  • Collaborates - Building partnerships and working collaboratively with other to meet shared objectives.
  • Decision Quality - Making good and timely decisions that keep the organization moving forward.
  • Optimize Work Processes - Knowing the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement.
  • Situational Adaptability - Adapting approach and demeanor in real time to match the shifting demands of different situations.
Travel Requirements
  • No travel requirements.
Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
  • Warehouse Setting
Disclosures
  • For California residents - please enter or copy/paste the address below into your address bar to review an important notice regarding Kenco's privacy policy
    https://www.kencogroup.com/ccpa-notice-at-collection-for-employees-and-applicants/
  • The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job. Other duties may be assigned as needed. The physical demands and work environment described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Per company policy, all internal job postings expire 14 days from the date they are posted.

Benefits offered:

  • Medical insurance including HSA, HRA and FSA accounts

  • Supplemental insurance including critical illness, hospital indemnity, accidental injury

  • Dental Insurance

  • Vision Insurance

  • Basic Life and Supplemental Life

  • Short Term and Long Term Disability

  • Paid Parental Leave

  • 401(k)

  • Paid Time Off approximately 2 weeks (accrual begins on Day 1 of employment)

  • Employer Paid Holidays- 10 days

Kenco strives to provide a supportive, professional environment for all employees. As a part of Kenco, we expect our team to uphold our three key pillars: be honest, serve, and get better. Each should strive for operational excellence, pursue innovation, and want to grow with our company.
Kenco Group is an Equal-Opportunity Employer. All employees and applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Please click the image to download the EEOC 'Know Your Rights; Discrimination is Illegal' posting.
https://www.eeoc.gov/poster
For California residents please enter or copy/paste the address below into your address bar

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

For California residents - please enter or copy/paste the address below into your address bar to review an important notice regarding Kenco's privacy policy.
https://www.kencogroup.com/ccpa-notice-at-collection-for-employees-and-applicants/


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