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Pit Loader Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Load outbound product and/or deposit items by transporting from their assigned storage area within ... PIT (Powered Industrial Truck) Certification: Pallet Jack, Single Forklift, Double Forklift ...

PIT Operators (Forklift Operators)

Portland, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

As the Forklift Operator, you'll have an important role on our team helping us provide ... Load and unload trailers as needed * Adhere to the 7S program and maintain a clean environment at ...

PIT Operators (Forklift Operators)

Portland, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

As the Forklift Operator, you'll have an important role on our team helping us provide ... Load and unload trailers as needed * Adhere to the 7S program and maintain a clean environment at ...

Forklift Operator I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

... the use of a PIT Forklift, such as building pallets, inbound unloading, outbound loading ... Load outbound product and/or deposit items by transporting from their assigned storage area within ...

Scalehouse Operator

Smithville, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Respond to customer questions and telephone calls. * Assist loaders and haulers when needed ... Assure correct weight and correct product out of pit. * Provide aggregate dispatch and customer ...

New

Scalehouse Operator

Smithville, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Respond to customer questions and telephone calls. * Assist loaders and haulers when needed ... Assure correct weight and correct product out of pit. * Provide aggregate dispatch and customer ...

New

Scalehouse Operator

Smithville, TN

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Respond to customer questions and telephone calls. * Assist loaders and haulers when needed ... Assure correct weight and correct product out of pit. * Provide aggregate dispatch and customer ...

New

Forklift Operator I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Load outbound product and/or deposit items by transporting from their assigned storage area within ... PIT (Powered Industrial Truck) Certification: Pallet Jack, Single Forklift, Double Forklift ...

Forklift Operator I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Load outbound product and/or deposit items by transporting from their assigned storage area within ... PIT (Powered Industrial Truck) Certification: Pallet Jack, Single Forklift, Double Forklift ...

Forklift Operator I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Load outbound product and/or deposit items by transporting from their assigned storage area within ... PIT (Powered Industrial Truck) Certification: Pallet Jack, Single Forklift, Double Forklift ...

Forklift Operator I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Load outbound product and/or deposit items by transporting from their assigned storage area within ... PIT (Powered Industrial Truck) Certification: Pallet Jack, Single Forklift, Double Forklift ...

Forklift Operator I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $17.75/hr

Load outbound product and/or deposit items by transporting from their assigned storage area within ... PIT (Powered Industrial Truck) Certification: Pallet Jack, Single Forklift, Double Forklift ...

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Showing results 1-20

Pit Loader Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do pit loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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 cities in Tennessee are hiring for Pit Loader Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Pit Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Pit Loader Operator job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,827 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

$17.25 - $18.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Forklift Operator

The salary range for this role is [$17.25 to $18.75] per hour*

Overview

Join our dynamic team as a Forklift Operator, where you’ll play a fundamental role in ensuring efficient and safe warehouse operations. You’ll transport merchandise using powered industrial trucks (PITs), maintain safety compliance, and contribute to a clean, organized workspace. With your skills and attention to detail, you’ll support the seamless flow of goods in a fast-paced warehouse environment.


The Details What You Need:
  • High school diploma or equivalent (preferred)

  • Proficiency operating powered industrial trucks (PITs), with 2+ years of experience (preferred)

  • OSHA or employee certification for PIT operation (preferred)

  • Safe, verifiable operating history (appreciated)

  • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs independently and heavier weights with assistance

What You’ll Do:
  • Safely operate PITs such as counterbalance forklifts and order pickers to transport and organize merchandise

  • Unload incoming stock, pick orders, and load outbound trucks to meet store needs

  • Perform daily PIT inspections and ensure compliance with OSHA and company safety regulations

  • Operate RF scanners as directed by supervisors

  • Maintain a clean and organized warehouse by sweeping, dusting, and mopping as needed

  • Adhere to all company safety rules and participate in required training programs

Additional Requirements:
  • Frequent bending, stooping, climbing, and pushing/pulling

  • Constant sitting and fine hand/wrist manipulation (steering and controls)

  • Occasional walking and standing

  • Comfortable working in varying warehouse temperatures, including indoor and outdoor environments


Aaron’s Total Rewards

Our team members are our greatest asset. As an expression of our appreciation, Aaron’s is proud to offer outstanding career training, competitive performance incentives, excellent advancement opportunities, and a distinctive benefits package which includes**:

  • Paid time off, including vacation days, sick days, and holidays

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance

  • 401(k) plan with contribution matching


*Note that the pay range provided above is the lowest to highest rate we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range, and the range may be modified in the future. An employee’s pay position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, shift, travel requirements, sales or revenue-based metrics, any collective bargaining agreements, and business or organizational needs. Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, or any other form of compensation that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company’s sole discretion, consistent with the law.

**Benefits vary based on FT and PT employment status.

C0D08 - Madison

Lavergne

TN

Education:nullEmployment Type: Fulfillment