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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operators

Anchorage, AK ยท On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Operates wheeled loader with forks and/or snow bucket. Must be familiar with all forms of rig ... When not performing assigned duties of forklift operator, assists in pipeshed, drill rig or shop ...

Unloads pallets of product from the delivery vehicle with an electronic pallet jack or 2 wheel hand ... Using equipment to aid in hauling loads (for example, operating pallet jacks, using dock plates, or ...

Unloads pallets of product from the delivery vehicle with an electronic pallet jack or 2 wheel hand ... Using equipment to aid in hauling loads (for example, operating pallet jacks, using dock plates, or ...

Heavy Vehicle Mechanic

Anchorage, AK ยท On-site

$26.50 - $35/hr

Replace and repair hydraulic lines, pneumatic equipment, air conditioning systems, wheels/tires ... Perform operator care such washing, vacuuming, and cleaning. * Performs routine inspection and ...

AMHS - Able Seafarer

Juneau, AK ยท On-site

$31.56 - $38.92/hr

You will help tie up and let go of the vessel, load and unload vehicles and cargo, operate deck ... Working aboard AMHS means operating in a dynamic, fast-paced marine environment across Alaska ...

Heavy Vehicle Mechanic

Anchorage, AK ยท On-site

$26.50 - $35/hr

Replace and repair hydraulic lines, pneumatic equipment, air conditioning systems, wheels/tires ... Perform operator care such washing, vacuuming, and cleaning. * Performs routine inspection and ...

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Wheel Loader Operator information

See Alaska salary details

$11

$20

$27

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Alaska is $20.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wheel loader operator?

As a wheel loader operator, you use front-end loaders to transport and haul materials or debris around a construction site. The bucket on the wheel loader is used to load and unload materials like ground fill or debris from demolished structures. Wheel loader operators are skilled at driving and controlling these large machines, coordinating with site management and other drivers to ensure safe operation at all times.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wheel loader operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wheel Loader Operator, you need practical experience with heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a relevant equipment operator certification or license. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, onboard computers, safety procedures, and routine maintenance tools is crucial. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help operators work safely and efficiently within team environments. These competencies ensure safe operation, prevent equipment damage, and contribute to productivity on construction or industrial sites.

What are the most common challenges faced by a wheel loader operator on a construction site?

Wheel Loader Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating around tight spaces or other heavy machinery, and maintaining clear communication with ground crews. Staying alert and adhering to strict safety protocols is crucial to prevent accidents. Additionally, operators are expected to perform routine equipment checks and minor maintenance, ensuring the loader is always in optimal working condition. Adapting to rapidly changing job site priorities and collaborating with other operators and site supervisors are also key aspects of the role.

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

AspectWheel Loader OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often preferred, OSHA safety trainingOSHA safety training, sometimes specific excavator certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, material handlingConstruction sites, demolition, trenching
Common UsageLoading/unloading materials, moving bulk materialsDigging, trenching, lifting heavy objects

While both Wheel Loader Operators and Excavator Operators work in construction and mining environments, their roles differ in equipment and tasks. Wheel Loader Operators primarily handle loading and moving bulk materials, whereas Excavator Operators focus on digging and trenching. Certifications and safety training overlap, but their specific equipment skills vary. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and project needs.

Do you need a license to operate a wheel loader?

Yes, wheel loader operators typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or a specialized certification, depending on state or industry requirements. Employers often require training and certification in equipment operation and safety procedures before employment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Alaska?

The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Alaska are:

What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in AK?

For Wheel Loader Operator jobs in AK, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,511 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Loader Operator (Expression of Interest)

Doyon Government Group

Prudhoe Bay, AK โ€ข On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Talent Pool For Upcoming Projects

This post is to build a talent pool for upcoming projects this fall/winter.

Job Summary

The loader operator operates a 966 front end loader or equivalent; load and unload equipment, materials and tubulars. Maintain clear access to drilling rig, camp, materials and equipment stored on drill pad. Assists in pipe shed or drill rig as required.

Essential Functions
  • Follow DDI and customer policies and standard operating procedures
  • Operate front end loader with forks, buckets, and misc. attachments
  • Maintains organization of pad, stores and keeps inventories of equipment
  • Deliver tools, equipment and materials to drilling rig
  • Record equipment operating information on daily report
  • Maintain spare parts, oil and grease inventories
  • Monitor and fuel auxiliary equipment
  • Alerts personnel when wildlife is on location
  • Maintain clear communication with relief, Driller, and Toolpusher
  • Participate in emergency drills
  • Assists with supervising and training roustabouts
  • Performs other duties assigned
Core Competencies
  • Commitment to Excellence โ€“ Identifies what needs to be done and takes action to achieve a standard of excellence beyond job expectations.
  • Corporate Values - Understand, embraces, and integrates Doyon corporate values into everyday duties and responsibilities.
  • Customer Service โ€“ Identifies and responds to current and future client needs by providing excellent service to internal and external clients.
  • Safety and Security โ€“ Promotes a safe work environment for co-workers and customers.
  • Teamwork โ€“ Resourceful team player that builds, strengthens, and maintains collaborative relationships with others inside or outside the organization.
Job Specific Competencies
  • Adaptability- Adapts to changing conditions and work assignments, sets priorities and manages multiple assignments, and tasks.
  • Attention to Detail- Ensures one's own and other's work and information are complete and accurate.
  • Communication Skills- Listens, writes, and speaks effectively, and positively relates and interacts with co-workers, customers and others.
  • Dependability- Consistently adheres to operational standards, ensures smooth operations and positive customer experiences, builds a productive workplace, is reliable, and improves team morale
  • Self-motivated- Requires little to no supervision, works well both independently and as part of a team.
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Two or more years' experience as an oil rig loader operator
  • NSTC (North Slope Training Certificate)
  • Valid driver's license
Preferred Qualifications
  • Alaska North Slope experience
Working Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to extreme weather conditions both on and off shore. Temperatures reach as low as 50 degrees below zero during the winter months. Employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places, extreme heat and high noise levels. Employee will be required to work at various heights on the rig. Employee will work in an environment where there is risk that they will be exposed to toxic, caustic and/or hazardous chemicals, fumes or airborne particles. Workers are required to wear personal protective equipment while on the job.

Physical Demands

An individual will be required to work the majority of hours in a remote industrial environment, and will need to be able to quickly respond to a change in work demands. Occasional lifting up to (1-50 lbs.) is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Reasonable Accommodation

It is Doyon Drilling's business philosophy and practice to provide reasonable accommodations, according to applicable state and federal laws, to all qualified individuals with physical or mental disabilities.

Preference Statement

Doyon grants preference to qualified Doyon Shareholders first, and second to qualified shareholders of other Alaska Native corporations that grant a similar preference in all phases of employment and training, which include, but are not limited to hiring, promotion, layoff, transfer, and training.