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Pit Loader Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

... the 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.

... 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 ...

PIT Operator - Afternoon Shift

Portland, TN · On-site

$16 - $21/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 Operator - Afternoon Shift

Portland, TN · On-site

$16 - $21/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 Operator - Afternoon Shift

Portland, TN · On-site

$16 - $21/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 Operator - 1st Shift

Sparta, TN · On-site

$14 - $16.50/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 Operator - 1st Shift

Sparta, TN · On-site

$14 - $16.50/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 Operator - 1st Shift

Sparta, TN · On-site

$14 - $16.50/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 ...

Heavy Equipment Operator - Dozer/Track Hoe/Front end Loader/ Haul Truck This is a highly skilled position involving the operation of Heavy Equipment in an open pit mine operation. Applicants must ...

Heavy Equipment Operator - Dozer/Track Hoe/Front end Loader/ Haul Truck This is a highly skilled position involving the operation of Heavy Equipment in an open pit mine operation. Applicants must ...

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)

Sparta, TN · On-site

$14 - $16.50/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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Pit Loader Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do pit loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 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?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a pit loader operator?

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 are 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 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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,827 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Vulcan Materials rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

299th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Summary
The Sales Yard/Stockpile Loader Oper will be responsible for operating machinery to load and unload materials in a sales yard or stockpile area. This role involves safely and efficiently operating equipment such as loaders, forklifts, and other heavy machinery to move materials around the yard or stockpile. You will also be responsible for maintaining and organizing the materials in the yard, ensuring that they are easily accessible for customers or further processing. Additionally, you may be required to perform routine maintenance on the equipment and assist with other tasks as needed
Essential Functions
Performs basic loading and stockpile-building tasks under direct supervision.
Focuses on developing fundamental operating skills and safety awareness in a high-traffic area.
Assists with routine maintenance and cleanup tasks.
Operate a front-end loader to load trucks, feed processing plants, and move materials within the stockpile area.
Maintain precise control of the loader, ensuring safe and efficient operation in a potentially high traffic area.
Conduct pre- and post-operation inspections of the loader, reporting any maintenance needs or safety concerns.
Load trucks accurately and efficiently, ensuring proper weight distribution and minimizing spillage.
Perform routine maintenance checks on the loader, identifying and addressing any issues.
Work collaboratively with plant operators, truck drivers, and other team members to ensure efficient production and material flow.
Load trucks accurately and efficiently, ensuring proper weight distribution and minimizing spillage.
Perform routine maintenance checks on the loader, identifying and addressing any issues.
Work collaboratively with plant operators, truck drivers, and other team members to ensure efficient production and material flow.
Critical Competencies
Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating large loaders, including understanding the controls, gauges, and indicators. Ability to manipulate the loader accurately and smoothly for various tasks, such as loading, dumping, and transporting materials. Skill in maneuvering the loader accurately and smoothly for various tasks, such as loading, dumping, and transporting materials. Skill in handling attachments and understanding their applications. Strong sense of spatial awareness to maneuver the loader safely in tight spaces, around obstacles and in congested work areas.
Safety Awareness: Thorough understanding of safety protocols and regulations related to heavy equipment operation. Ability to identify potential hazards and take preventive actions to ensure a safe working environment. Diligent use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety guidelines at all times.
Technical Expertise: Solid mechanical understanding of loaders, including basic maintenance checks and troubleshooting minor issues. Ability to identify signs of equipment malfunction and report them to the maintenance team.
Material Handling: Proficient in loading various materials onto trucks, conveyors and other transport vehicles while maintaining load stability and distribution. Ability to accurately estimate weights and volumes for optimal load and transportation efficiency.
Problem Solving: Ability to assess loading challenges and adapt accordingly. Demonstrate decision making in response to unexpected situations or change in the work environment.Education
High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Experience
1-4 years of experience operating a front-end loader in a stockpile environment.
Demonstrates a high level of proficiency in loader operation and safety practices.
Understanding of stockpile management, material properties, and quality control procedures.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Operates the loader with a high degree of skill and efficiency in a high-traffic area.
Consistently meets or exceeds production targets while maintaining stockpile quality.
Proactively identifies and resolves operational challenges.
May assist in training and mentoring less experienced operators.
Contributes to continuous improvement initiatives.
Requires minimal supervision after the plan for the day has been communicated and can adapt to changing conditions associated with the 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.
Ability to operate heavy machinery safely and efficiently in a high-traffic area.
Basic mechanical aptitude for pre- and post-operation checks.
Other Requirements
Must have the ability to climb ladders while maintaining three points of contact.
Physical ability to climb ladders, sit for extended periods, and operate controls with precision.
Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols, including wearing appropriate PPE.
Maintain a high level of situational awareness in a dynamic work environment with truck traffic and other mobile equipment.
Report any safety concerns, incidents, or equipment malfunctions promptly.
Understand and follow environmental regulations related to dust control, material handling, and stockpile management.
Ability to work in varying weather conditions.
Strong understanding of safety protocols and MSHA regulations.
Perform routine maintenance checks on the loader, identifying and addressing any issues.
Collaborate with maintenance teams for repairs and preventive maintenance.
Complete log sheets, work orders, and other documentation to maintain accurate materials records as required.
Other duties as assigned.
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Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.

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