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Skid Loader Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

We are currently looking for a reliable Truck Driver / Skid Loader Operator to join our team. Position Details: * 4-day work week (includes weekends) * Year-round, steady work * Excellent pay * Full ...

We are currently looking for a reliable Truck Driver / Skid Loader Operator to join our team. Position Details: * 4-day work week (includes weekends) * Year-round, steady work * Excellent pay * Full ...

We are currently looking for a reliable Truck Driver / Skid Loader Operator to join our team. Position Details: * 4-day work week (includes weekends) * Year-round, steady work * Excellent pay * Full ...

Mill Operator | Day Shift

Willmar, MN ยท On-site

$21.72 - $25.04/hr

Experience operating skid loader and fork lift * Basic math and computer skills * Ability to lift 60 pounds, occasional bending and lifting required; able to stand on feet for extended periods of ...

Material Handler

Rogers, MN ยท On-site

$22.25/hr

Experience operating stand-up and sit-down forklifts. * Proficiency with handling equipment such as skid loaders, excavators, and bobcats. * Familiarity with RF scan gun systems for inventory ...

Are you confident running dozers, skid loaders, and excavators in the field? Do you like working ... The Opportunity We are looking for an experienced Equipment Operator to join our growing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Skid Loader Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do skid loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for skid loader operator in Minnesota is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $26.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a skid loader operator?

Skid Loader Operators are skilled workers who operate skid steer loaders, which are compact, engine-powered machines with lift arms used for a variety of construction, landscaping, and agricultural tasks. Their responsibilities include maneuvering the loader to move materials, clear debris, grade surfaces, and sometimes attach specialized tools. Operators must be knowledgeable about safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and efficient operation to ensure job site productivity. They often work outdoors and may be required to operate in challenging weather or terrain conditions.

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

AspectSkid Loader OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, landscaping, agricultureConstruction sites, demolition, excavation projects
Industry UsageConstruction, landscaping, agricultureConstruction, demolition, mining

Both Skid Loader Operators and Excavator Operators require safety training and equipment certifications. Skid Loader Operators typically work in construction, landscaping, and agriculture, handling smaller, versatile machines. Excavator Operators operate larger machinery mainly used for digging and heavy lifting in construction and demolition. While their roles overlap in construction environments, their equipment and specific tasks differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Skid Loader Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, experience with heavy equipment, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often accompanied by on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with skid loader controls, safety protocols, and sometimes GPS or telematics systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities set exceptional operators apart. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation and minimize downtime or accidents on construction and agricultural sites.

What are some common challenges faced by skid loader operators on construction sites?

Skid loader operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight spaces, working in adverse weather conditions, and maintaining safety when operating around other workers and heavy equipment. Effective communication with site supervisors and ground crews is essential to prevent accidents and ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Additionally, operators must regularly inspect and maintain their equipment to avoid breakdowns that could delay projects.
What are popular job titles related to Skid Loader Operator jobs in Minnesota? For Skid Loader Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Skid Loader Operator jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Skid Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Skid Loader Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,314 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Skid Loader Operator - Restoration

McNamara Contracting, Inc.

Rosemount, MN โ€ข On-site

$35.85 - $47.68/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Application Instructions
Job Summary:
McNamara Contracting, a McNamara Company, is seeking a skilled Skid Loader Operator to join a restoration crew. The primary function of the Skid Loader Operator is to support site preparation, fine grading, and sub-base development for highway heavy civil projects, including the safe transportation of construction equipment as needed to and from sites. Work can vary in scope from site improvement to highway heavy road construction.
Position Description
Position Description:
  • Operate skid loader to prep dirt work prior to paving.
  • Transport skid loader and other equipment to and from job sites.
  • Perform rough and fine grading to specified elevations using bucket, grading attachments, or laser-guidance.
  • Assist in building, shaping, and maintaining subgrade, aggregate base, shoulders, and drainage features.
  • Work with the other grading crew members to establish proper slopes, grades, and compaction requirements.
  • Remove debris, clear work areas, and support site cleanup to ensure efficient paving preparation.
  • Load and transport materials such as aggregate base, dirt, sand, and equipment as needed.
  • Fine grading of aggregate base in preparation for paving.
  • Perform daily machine inspections and routine maintenance including fueling, greasing, checking fluids, cleaning.
  • Communicate clearly with foremen, grade checkers, and other crew members to maintain accuracy and productivity.
  • Assist crew with general labor duties when equipment operation is not required.
  • Follow all company safety procedures, including safe operation of equipment near crew members and other machinery.
  • Report hazards, machine issues, or unsafe conditions immediately.
  • Report equipment issues or damage immediately to the foreman or shop.
  • Perform other job-related tasks as assigned.

Position Requirements
Requirements:
  • CDL class A is referred.
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred.
  • 3-years' experience operating a skid steer loader required; grading or civil construction experience preferred.
  • Strong understanding of asphalt paving operations and equipment.
  • Ability to work collectively as a team and independently.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
  • Ability to work in various weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks.

Additional Information:
  • Exposure to outdoor work environments under varying conditions.
  • Ability to work extended hours during peak paving season, including Saturdays.
  • Ability to work in high-paced, dynamic surroundings and swift decision-making.
  • Ability to lift various dimensions and weights frequently.
  • Frequent travel between job sites.

Benefits:
  • Health and Welfare benefits are defined in the CBA
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance plan options as defined in the CBA
  • Life insurance, voluntary life insurance, dependent life coverage and voluntary accident coverage defined in the CBA
  • Short-term and long-term disability as defined in the CBA

Pay: $35.85 - $47.68/hour - based on union scale
Equal Opportunity Employer
McNamara Companies is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color or creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, affectional preference, disability, age, marital status, familial status, protected veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission dealing with discrimination, or any other protected class status.
For more information about your equal employment opportunity rights and protections, click here.
McNamara Companies highly encourages Women, People of Color, Veterans and people of all abilities to apply.
Position may be subject to pre-employment screening, which may include background checks and drug screening.