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Pit Loader Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Vulcan Materials

Yard Loader Operator

Cookeville, TN · On-site

... pit floor and working face. • May assist in training and mentoring less experienced operators. Contributes to continuous improvement initiatives. • Proven experience operating a front-end loader ...

GXO

PIT Operator I

Portland, TN · On-site

PIT Operator I Logistics at full potential. At GXO, we're constantly looking for talented ... Load and unload trailers as needed * Adhere to the 7S program and maintain a clean environment at ...

New

GXO

PIT Operator - 1st Shift

Sparta, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

PIT Operator - 1st Shift Logistics at full potential. At GXO, we're constantly looking for talented ... Load and unload trailers as needed * Adhere to the 7S program and maintain a clean environment at ...

New

SK Food Group

PIT Operator

Mcdonald, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $16.25/hr

... loaded pallets, skids, boxes, products, or materials or hooks tow trucks to trailer hitch, and transports load to designated area. • Unloads and stacks material by raising and lowering lifting ...

SK FOOD GROUP

PIT Operator

Mcdonald, TN · On-site

Loads or unloads materials onto or off of pallets, trailers, or lifting device. * Shrink wraps pallets and products on pallets. * Must be able to complete transactions and research errors in ...

SK Food Group

PIT Operator

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$14 - $16.50/hr

Loads or unloads materials onto or off of pallets, trailers, or lifting device. * Shrink wraps pallets and products on pallets. * Must be able to complete transactions and research errors in ...

MARS Solutions Group

Night Shift Forklift Operator

Alcoa, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

MARS Solutions Group is looking for an experienced Night Shift Forklift Operator located in Alcoa ... Strong knowledge of warehouse safety, PIT operation standards, and load stability principles.

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All JobsPit Loader Operator JobsPit Loader Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Pit Loader Operator information

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How much do pit loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for pit loader operator in Tennessee is $17.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pit loader operator?

A pit loader operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery used to load materials such as ore, coal, or other bulk materials into trucks or conveyors in mining or construction environments. They typically operate equipment like front-end loaders or excavators and must follow safety protocols and operational procedures. This role often requires physical stamina, attention to safety, and sometimes certification in equipment operation.

What are some common challenges faced by Pit Loader Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Pit Loader Operators often work in dynamic and sometimes harsh conditions, requiring constant attention to safety and communication with team members. Challenges can include navigating uneven terrain, managing equipment maintenance, and adapting to varying materials or weather conditions. Staying vigilant, following safety protocols, and participating in regular equipment inspections can help address these issues. Effective collaboration with dispatchers and other operators also ensures smooth operations and reduces downtime.

What jobs pay 700 a day?

Pit Loader Operators in the mining or construction industries can sometimes earn around $700 per day, especially with overtime, specialized skills, or in high-demand environments. These roles often require safety certifications, physical stamina, and experience operating heavy equipment. Earnings vary based on location, experience, and the complexity of the work schedule.

What is the highest paying heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators specializing in specialized machinery such as crane, bulldozer, or excavator operators tend to earn the highest wages, especially with experience and certifications. Among these, crane operators often have the highest salaries due to the skill level and safety requirements involved. Salary can also vary based on industry, location, and union membership.

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

To thrive as a Pit Loader Operator, you need experience in heavy equipment operation, knowledge of mining or quarrying processes, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with loader machinery, safety protocols, and often specific certifications such as MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) are required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and reliability help operators work safely and efficiently within a team. These skills are crucial for maintaining productivity, ensuring safety, and minimizing equipment downtime in demanding work environments.

What is the difference between Pit Loader Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectPit Loader OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training and equipment operation certificationsRequires similar safety training and certifications for various heavy machinery
Work EnvironmentPrimarily works in mining, quarry, or construction sites handling loadersOperates a range of heavy machinery across construction, mining, and industrial sites
Industry UsageCommonly used in mining, quarrying, and construction industriesUsed across multiple industries including construction, mining, and infrastructure projects

The Pit Loader Operator and Heavy Equipment Operator roles share similar certifications and work environments, especially in mining and construction sectors. However, the Pit Loader Operator specializes in operating loaders specifically in mining or quarry sites, while the Heavy Equipment Operator has a broader scope, handling various types of heavy machinery across multiple industries.

How much do underground loader operators make?

Underground loader operators typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the work environment. Salaries can also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, with some positions offering overtime pay for extended shifts.

What are Pit Loader Operators?

Pit Loader Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating heavy machinery, such as loaders or front-end loaders, in mining or construction pits. Their main duties include transporting materials like earth, minerals, or debris, loading trucks, and maintaining the equipment they use. Safety is a key part of their job, as they work in challenging environments and must follow strict protocols to prevent accidents. Pit Loader Operators also inspect and perform basic maintenance on their machines to ensure efficient and safe operation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Pit Loader Operator jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Pit Loader Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Pit Loader Operator jobs in Tennessee? For Pit Loader Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pit Loader Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Pit Loader Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Pit Loader Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Pit Loader Operator job openings:
Pit Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pit Loader Operator job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,827 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Hot Pit Loader Operator - Jackson, TN

SMS Mill Services

Jackson, TN • On-site

Other

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Hot Pit Loader

SMS Mill Services, LLC is a leader in the steel mill services industry prioritizing recycling and environmental/workers' safety and handling all operations with integrity. SMS is seeking a highly skilled and safety-focused Hot Pit Loader in Jackon, TN. This is a specialty position requiring experience operating unique equipment in Hot Slag operations.

This position will operate CAT 980 size loaders (10 cubic yard bucket or larger) and a Slag Pot carrier with a 621 size tractor hauling liquid Slag. (MUST HAVE PRIOR EXPERIENCE)

Equipment Operator is responsible for the operation of various pieces of heavy equipment in a safe and effective manner while moving material for processing. Equipment Operator operates heavy equipment while ensuring that all of his/her efforts are compliant with the company's Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Operate heavy equipment of various sizes and weights including but not limited to loaders, cranes, excavator, forklifts, skid steers, etc.
  • Move scrap material around the yard
  • Operate various forklifts, pallet jacks, and assist in day-to-day manual labor tasks and activities when machinery does not need to be operated
  • Keep the yard clean
  • Coordinate machine actions with other activities, such as positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members
  • Take actions to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as other equipment, workers, or moving objects
  • Perform daily inspections, safety checks, preventive maintenance, and repairs of equipment; check required fluids and grease equipment. Report any equipment deficiencies or malfunctions to the proper supervisor
  • Willingness to cross-train in other positions and assist other employees as needed
  • Potential to perform general labor duties which may/may not include sweeping, raking, shoveling/snow removal, general clean-up of work area and equipment, and physically handling materials and supplies
  • Other job-related duties as assigned

Required Experience

  • 5+ years' experience with CAT 980 loaders and 621 size tractors
  • 3+ years' experience operating a hydraulic excavator and wheel loader with forks and buckets
  • 2+ years' experience with skid steer and forklift
  • Experience working in a fast-paced environment
  • Valid driver's license and the ability to drive an automobile required

SMS Mill Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. SMS Mill Services, LLC makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

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