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Pay Loader Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

... to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials ... Weekly Pay * Referral Incentives * Company provided uniforms and PPE * Eligible for Safety and ...

Forklift Operator

Vonore, TN · On-site

$19.55/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 3rd, Sunday-Thursday, 10:00pm-6:00am Pay: $19.55 per hour +$0.75 shift ... You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ...

Equipment Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

... to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials ... Weekly Pay * Referral Incentives * Company provided uniforms and PPE * Eligible for Safety and ...

Forklift Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

$20.35/hr

Pay: $20.35 per hour Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year operating a Reach Truck; A ... 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

Pay: $20.35 per hour Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year operating a Reach Truck; A ... 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

Pay: $20.35 per hour plus $2.00 shift differential Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year ... 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

Pay: $20.35 per hour Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year operating a Reach Truck; A ... 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

Forklift Operator Shift: 3rd, Sunday-Thursday, 10:00pm-6:00am Pay: $19.55 per hour +$0.75 shift ... 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

Pay: $20.35 per hour plus $1.00 shift differential Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year ... 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

Pay: $20.35 per hour Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year operating a Reach Truck; A ... 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

Pay: $20.35 per hour plus $2.00 shift differential Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year ... 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

Pay: $20.35 per hour plus $2.00 shift differential Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year ... 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

Pay: $20.35 per hour Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year operating a Reach Truck; A ... You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ...

Pay: $20.35 per hour plus $2.00 shift differential Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year ... You'll load and unload shipments of various sizes, and you may use certain types of equipment such ...

Forklift Operator

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

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

Memphis, TN · On-site

$20.35/hr

Pay: $20.35 per hour Required Qualifications: A minimum of 1 year operating a Reach Truck; A ... 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

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 is a pay loader operator?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pay loader operator?

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.

How much does a pay loader operator make?

A pay loader operator's average salary in the United States ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in construction or mining environments tend to earn higher wages, often with opportunities for overtime and benefits.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Equipment Operator

SA Recycling

Nashville, TN • On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


SA Recycling rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 89 rated recycling and waste


Job description

We are looking for a hard-working, reliable and safety minded individual to join our team as an Equipment Operator. As a Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of a heavy equipment to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials around the recycling yard.
This position will work outside in varying weather conditions, and SA Recycling strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.
Working hours are from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday, and from 7:30 - 11:30 am on Saturdays.
SA Recycling offers:
  • Competitive Pay
  • Choice of 2 Medical plans, with Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
  • 401k with a Company Match
  • Weekly Pay
  • Referral Incentives
  • Company provided uniforms and PPE
  • Eligible for Safety and Profitability Bonuses
  • Advancement Opportunities

Responsibilities of an Equipment Operator
  • Operate a various heavy equipment to load and unload scrap metal and debris in preparation for processing or shipping.
  • Determine load weights and verify against lifting capacities to prevent overloads and dangerous situations.
  • Identify and grade inbound scrap and reject unacceptable items.
  • Drain and remove fluids and gasses from autos, refrigerators, air conditioners, etc.
  • Direct truck drivers into proper position for loading and unloading of scrap metal or other materials.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report any concerns, defects or needed repairs to supervisor.
  • Comply with all applicable federal, state, local, & SA Recycling safety, health, & environmental rules, regulations, policies, & procedures.

Qualifications of Equipment Operator
  • High School diploma, GED Certification, or equivalent work experience.
  • 1-year experience operating a hydraulic crane and wheeled bucket loader; operations in the scrap metal or construction industries preferred.
  • Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) a plus.
  • Ability to carry out instructions provided in written or oral form.
  • Ability to learn new tasks as assigned required.

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.
An offer of employment by SA Recycling is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen, physical exam, and background check with a credit check (if position specified).
All US applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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