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Skid Loader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Encadria

Loader Operator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Operating front-end loader, water truck, skid steer, vacuum truck and forklift * Performing daily, weekly, and monthly housekeeping duties, such as shoveling material from around and under conveyors ...

Livestock Nutrition Center

Loader Operator

Cameron, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Position Summary The Loader Operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of equipment, including Front End Loaders and Skid Steers at our feed manufacturing facility.

Livestock Nutrition Center

Loader Operator

Cameron, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Position Summary The Loader Operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of equipment, including Front End Loaders and Skid Steers at our feed manufacturing facility.

Sibelco

Loader Operator

Versailles, IN

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Loader Operator Location: Versailles At Sibelco, we advance life through materials. For over 150 ... Safely operate and maintain loader and other heavy machinery (e.g., forklift, skid steer, pallet ...

Schnitzer Steel Industries Inc

Loader Operator

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

The Loader Operator will contribute to the production team to ensure goals are met safely and ... Operation of a Front Loader, Crusher, Fork Lift or Skid Steer: Move vehicles, cores, scrap, and ...

Schnitzer Steel Industries Inc

Loader Operator

Olympia, WA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

The Loader Operator will contribute to the production team to ensure goals are met safely and ... Operation of a Front Loader, Crusher, Fork Lift or Skid Steer: Move vehicles, cores, scrap, and ...

Pixelle Specialty Solutions LLC

Loader Operator

Delmar, MD

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Knuckle-boom loaders, Skid-steer, Front-end/Bucket loader, Yard trucks, Farm tractor, and Wood ... PREFERRED SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS: • Heavy equipment operator experience. • Associate/technical ...

Concrete Strategies

Loader Operator

Lubbock, TX · On-site

Excavator, Mini Excavator Skid Steer, Front end Loader, Rough terrain Fork-lift. Must learn and ... The Operator will possess competency in the following areas in order to perform their role in a ...

CONCRETE STRATEGIES

Loader Operator

Lubbock, TX · On-site

Excavator, Mini Excavator Skid Steer, Front end Loader, Rough terrain Fork-lift. Must learn and ... The Operator will possess competency in the following areas in order to perform their role in a ...

Bettis Companies

Loader Operator

Topeka, KS · On-site

Skid-Steer Loader * Backhoe * Rough Loader * Rough Dozer * Material Transfer Vehicle Physical Demands * Climb ladder 8-10 feet to access equipment operating station * Keep equipment moving along ...

CONCRETE STRATEGIES

Loader Operator

Lubbock, TX

Excavator, Mini Excavator Skid Steer, Front end Loader, Rough terrain Fork-lift. Must learn and ... The Operator will possess competency in the following areas in order to perform their role in a ...

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Skid Loader Operator information

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How much do skid loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for skid loader operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the 70/30 rule skid steer?

The 70/30 rule for skid steer operators refers to a safety guideline suggesting that operators should keep their load within 70% of the machine's maximum capacity to maintain stability and prevent tipping. This rule helps ensure safe operation, especially when working on uneven terrain or with heavy loads, and is often emphasized during training and certification.

What are Skid Loader Operators?

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.

How much does a skid loader operator make?

Skid loader operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized training or working in high-demand areas may earn higher wages.

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

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.

How much money can you make operating a skid steer?

Skid steer operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job. Annual salaries can range from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 or more, with experienced operators or those working in high-demand areas earning higher wages. Certifications and familiarity with different attachments can also influence earning potential.

What is a good hourly rate for skid steer work?

The typical hourly rate for a skid steer operator ranges from $15 to $30, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled operators with certifications or specialized equipment knowledge may command higher rates, especially for commercial or long-term projects.
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Skid Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Skid Loader Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 31% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
3rd shift Laborer Skid Loader/Shag Operator

3rd shift Laborer Skid Loader/Shag Operator

Darling Ingredients Inc.

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$24.65/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Darling Ingredients rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

153rd of 389 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Summary

The Laborer operates loader, forklifts, bobcat and yard tractor pumps. Will need to be able to climb tanks, tankers, shovels material, completes daily sanitation, lifts and rolls barrels when needed. Loads and unloads raw materials and finished products. Must be legible and accurate on all documentation.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

  • Operates skid loader, payloader, forklifts, bobcat and yard tractor.
  • Unload raw material. Washes trailers and tankers.
  • Documents all movement and completes accurately.
  • Shovels, sweeps and washes plant. Completes needed daily sanitation work.
  • Follows all Company safety procedures, GMP and guidelines.
  • All other duties as assigned by management.
  • Must be timely.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High School diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Minimum 1 yr experience operating a skid loader or shag truck
  • Must have good work history and attendance record.
  • Must have Drivers License

Preferred Qualifications

  • Communicates clearly in verbal and written form.
  • Highly organized; superior time management skills. Follows direction
  • Ability to maintain composure in difficult situations; adaptable to changing situations.
  • Ability to pass pre-employment drug screen.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers.
  • Able to climb high and tolerate heights.

Physical Demands

  • Constantly required to walk, stand, sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crawl, and crouch.
  • Occasionally push, pull, up to 100 lbs. with both arms
  • Occasionally lift up to 80 lbs. with both arms.
  • Frequently lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Regularly required reach with hands and arms.
  • Continually entering and exiting cab of tractor, front end loader, bobcat and forklift.

Work Environment

Job functions will be carried out at a plant location.

Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military service, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and local law. Know Your Rights: If you would like more information, please click on the link and paste into your browser: https://www.eeoc.gov/poster


Job Posted by ApplicantPro

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