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Skip Loader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Landscape Operator/Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ

$15.50 - $19/hr

Operate heavy equipment including water truck, backhoe, gang mower, bobcat, trencher, skip loader ... May direct the work of employees operating equipment on a training basis. * Identify equipment ...

Laborer III

Portland, OR · On-site

$22/hr

While operating a forklift or skip loader must be able to press clutch, brake and gas pedals and the ability to control equipment with mechanical hand levers. * In the course of a normal day ...

Operating a hot plant efficiently to maintain production goals * Placing raw aggregate and liquid ... May operate equipment including: front end loader, skip loader, skid steer, and other equipment as ...

... while operating tools and equipment safely and in compliance with company policy and Cal/OSHA ... skid steer and skip loader with box scraper to grade pads and drives. * Ensure all work meets ...

Concrete Setter

Fresno, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

... while operating tools and equipment safely and in compliance with company policy and Cal/OSHA ... skid steer and skip loader with box scraper to grade pads and drives. * Ensure all work meets ...

Concrete Setter

Fresno, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

... while operating tools and equipment safely and in compliance with company policy and Cal/OSHA ... skid steer and skip loader with box scraper to grade pads and drives. * Ensure all work meets ...

Road Milling Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Our family-owned and operated company has 28 years in Arizona and 46 years of employing excellent ... Prior experience with skip loader, gannon and trimmer is helpful. PLEASE NOTE: All positions at C&S ...

Leads a small crew by prioritizing projects, assigning tasks, operating equipment, maintaining ... tools, mowing machines, skip loader & bobcat. Willingness and ability to learn to use this ...

Leads a small crew by prioritizing projects, assigning tasks, operating equipment, maintaining ... tools, mowing machines, skip loader & bobcat. Willingness and ability to learn to use this ...

CA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator/Finish Grade - Grading Division General Summary : Western Engineering ... Capability to cut finish grade with use of motor-graders and skip-loaders. * Knowledge of GPS ...

Leads a small crew by prioritizing projects, assigning tasks, operating equipment, maintaining ... tools, mowing machines, skip loader & bobcat. Willingness and ability to learn to use this ...

Tree Care Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining the following categories of ... Large wheel loaders, mid-size articulated wheel loaders, skip loaders, towing tractors, on/off road ...

Showing results 21-40

Skip Loader Operator information

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$10

$18

$25

How much do skip loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for skip loader operator in the United States is $18.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a skip loader operator?

A Skip Loader Operator is a skilled worker responsible for operating skip loaders—compact tractors equipped with front loaders and sometimes rear implements. These machines are used on construction, landscaping, and agricultural sites to move, load, and transport materials such as soil, gravel, or debris. The operator must safely maneuver the equipment, perform basic maintenance, and follow site safety protocols. They often work as part of a team to ensure projects are completed efficiently and according to specifications.

What is the difference between Skip Loader Operator vs Backhoe Operator?

AspectSkip Loader OperatorBackhoe Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often preferred, equipment operation certificationsSimilar certifications, including CDL and equipment operation licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, material handlingConstruction sites, excavation projects, utility work
Industry UsageHeavy construction, mining, material transportConstruction, excavation, utility installation

Both Skip Loader Operators and Backhoe Operators work in construction and heavy industry environments, often requiring similar certifications. The main difference lies in the equipment used: Skip Loaders are designed for loading and moving materials quickly, while Backhoes are versatile for digging and excavation tasks. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and workers choose the right role for specific project needs.

What are the main safety challenges faced by skip loader operators, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Skip Loader Operators often encounter safety challenges such as navigating tight job sites, working around other heavy machinery, and managing loads on uneven terrain. To address these, operators are trained to conduct thorough pre-operation equipment checks, follow strict site safety protocols, and maintain constant communication with ground personnel. Regular safety briefings and ongoing education help ensure that best practices are understood and followed, reducing the risk of accidents and equipment damage. Employers also emphasize the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to OSHA regulations.

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

To thrive as a Skip Loader Operator, you need practical experience with heavy equipment, a valid operator’s license, and knowledge of workplace safety regulations. Familiarity with hydraulic controls, GPS tracking systems, and routine equipment maintenance is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation and contribute to productivity and accident prevention on construction sites.
More about Skip Loader Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Skip Loader Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,474 per year, or $19 per hour.

Landscape Operator/Phoenix

haydon

Phoenix, AZ

$15.50 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY

Operate a wide range of heavy landscape equipment. Perform a variety of semi-skilled and skilled gardening and turf maintenance duties in the development, maintenance, and repair of landscaped areas.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Learn and follow safety regulations.
  • Take actions to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers, or falling objects.
  • Locate underground services, such as pipes or wires, prior to beginning work.
  • Monitor operations to ensure that health and safety standards are met.
  • Operate heavy equipment including water truck, backhoe, gang mower, bobcat, trencher, skip loader with bucket and crane truck for a variety of landscape maintenance and repair operations.
  • May direct the work of employees operating equipment on a training basis.
  • Identify equipment needs for each assigned project.
  • Assist in the maintenance of large turf areas including mowing, thatching, plugging, and installing new turf areas as required.
  • Perform watering of non-irrigated landscaped areas.
  • Respond to inquiries from the public.
  • Perform a wide variety of general landscape duties including water, weed, prune, renovate and fertilize shrubs, trees, flower beds and landscape areas as required.
  • Assist in the maintenance and installation of irrigation systems; set clocks; perform repairs.
  • Perform a wide variety of general grounds and facility maintenance work as required including raking leaves, cleaning walkways, removing debris.
  • Assist with mixing and applying insecticides, herbicides, and related work.
  • Perform routine preventive maintenance on mowing equipment and hand and power tools used in the work.
  • Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

COMPETENCIES

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: 

  • Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; sets goals and objectives; organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; develops realistic action plans.
  • Communications - Expresses ideas and thoughts verbally; expresses ideas and thoughts in written form; exhibits good listening and comprehension; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods.
  • Design - Generates creative solutions; translates concepts and information into images; uses feedback to modify designs; applies design principles; demonstrates attention to detail.
  • Job Knowledge - Competent in required job skills and knowledge; keeps abreast of current developments; requires minimal supervision; displays understanding of how job relates to others.
  • Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem solving situations; uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
  • Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; takes responsibility for own actions; keeps commitments; commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals.; completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan.
  • Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; gives and welcomes feedback; contributes to building a positive team spirit; puts success of team above own interests; able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; supports everyone's efforts to succeed.

QUALIFICATIONS The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Education and/or Experience

3+ years’ experience in the operation of heavy landscaping equipment and general landscape maintenance work.  Knowledge of heavy equipment including backhoe, gang mower, trencher, skip loader and bob cat.  Ability to follow traffic laws, ordinances, and rules applicable to heavy equipment operation.  Use and operate hand tools, mechanical equipment and power tools and equipment required for the work in a safe and efficient manner.  Work effectively in the absence of supervision.  Understand and carry out both verbal and written directions.  Must possess a valid Arizona driver’s license and have acceptable driving record that allows insurability under Earthscapes’ insurance plan. 

Physical Demands

Ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch squat, stoop, reach, twist, climb, and lift 50 lbs.  Requires exposure to cold, heat, noise, outdoors, confining workspace, electrical hazards, chemicals, dust, and mechanical hazards.  Assist in the training and supervision of others and in the safe operation of equipment.  Establish and maintain effective work relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties.