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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Ketek Group Inc

Pumping Technician

Edmonton, AB · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Experience operating a wheel loader and/or skid steer Job Type: Full-time Schedule: * 10 hour shift * 12 hour shift * Day shift * Night shift Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Amrize

Skid Steer Operator

Edmonton, AB

Join Amrize as a Skid Steer Operator and help construct what's next. If you're ready to put your ... Operate a front-end wheel loader and assist with plant operations. * Assist with various job ...

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs in Alberta

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Alberta salary details

$10

$20

$36

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Alberta is $20.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.67 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.

Do you need a license to drive a wheel loader?

Yes, a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or specific equipment operation certification is typically required to operate a wheel loader, depending on state or local regulations. Employers often require operators to complete safety training and demonstrate proficiency before use.

What are wheel loader operators?

Wheel loader operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery known as wheel loaders, which are used to move materials such as soil, gravel, sand, and debris on construction sites, quarries, and other industrial locations. Their responsibilities include loading and unloading materials, transporting them to designated areas, and maintaining the equipment to ensure safe operation. Operators must be attentive to safety protocols and often require specialized training or certification. They play a vital role in keeping construction and material-handling operations efficient and safe.

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.

Is a loader operator a good job?

A loader operator is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery like wheel loaders to move materials in construction, mining, or industrial settings. The job typically requires physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and may involve certifications such as OSHA training. It can offer steady employment and competitive wages depending on experience and location.

How to make money with a wheel loader?

A wheel loader operator can make money by working for construction, mining, or agricultural companies, performing tasks such as loading materials, moving earth, or clearing sites. Gaining experience, obtaining relevant certifications, and working in high-demand environments can increase earning potential. Some operators also rent out equipment or start their own contracting business to generate additional income.

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 jobs pay $700 a day?

Wheel loader operators in construction and mining can sometimes earn $700 or more per day, especially with overtime, experience, and specialized skills. High-paying roles often require certifications, operating heavy machinery, and working in demanding environments or during long shifts.
More about Wheel Loader Operator jobs
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What job categories do people searching Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Alberta look for? The top searched job categories for Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Alberta are:
What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in AB? For Wheel Loader Operator jobs in AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Alberta as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,519 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Operator (Class 1/3) , Highway Maintenance (Fox Creek, AB.)

LTS Managed Technical Services LLC

Fox Creek, AB

CA$26.50 - CA$31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Join Our Team - Road Maintenance Careers with Ledcor Highways Ltd.
Ledcor Highways Ltd. is now hiring year-round road maintenance operators for work in Fox Creek, AB.
We're hiring motivated, team-focused individuals with a Class 1, 2 or 3 license to help keep Alberta's highways safe. We provide industry-leading wages, strong training, and opportunities for career growth within our diverse company. Responsibilities include winter and seasonal highway maintenance using highway trucks and heavy equipment.
Watch our Innovation, Culture and Community video to learn more, and apply today to join the Ledcor Highways team at locations throughout Alberta

http://Job Description http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdhNKGIZL4c

Work Conditions:

  • As we respond to various weather patterns, some shift work, on-call, and night shift will be required

  • Benefits and RSPs provided by CLAC

  • Accommodations can be provided for non-local candidates

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Operate snowplow trucks, wheel loaders, and other heavy equipment as required

  • Maintain Alberta Provincial Highways year-round, including assisting with Labourer duties (crack sealing, pothole repair, bridge and signage cleaning, hazard remediation, etc.)

  • Work outside in all weather conditions

Qualifications:

  • Successful completion pre-employment drug and alcohol testing

  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasksincluding lifting up to 50 lbs.

  • Valid Class 1 or 3 driver's license with air endorsement

  • Clear 3-year driver's abstract

  • Previous experience operating a snowplow truck and/or wheel loader is a strong asset

Rates & Premiums:

  • Will be provided a base hourly rate from $26.50 /hour to $31.00/hour based on experience

  • Operators who reside and work in Fox Creek will receive an additional $5/hr when performing winter maintenance operations (Applicable Oct 1 to April 30)

  • Operators will be eligible to receive an additional premium starting at $8/hour, when performing winter maintenance operations

  • Operators will be eligible to receive a premium starting at $14/hour when performing winter operations as a Class 1 operator and while operating the tow plow unit

Additional Information

Ledcor builds and maintains infrastructure in various industries including oil and gas, transportation, and mining. We're experts in all infrastructure construction and maintenance related projects. Our vast projects include: full-scale contract mining, earthworks, foundations, highways, bridges, roads, waterways and resources, airports, rapid transit, underground utilities, pipelines, independent power projects and site reclamation.

Our workplace culture has been recognized as one of Canada's Best Diversity Employers, Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures, and a Top 100 Inspiring Workplace in North America.

We are committed to the long-term success and wellbeing of our employees. Employees are provided with a comprehensive health and benefits package which includes extended health and dental, vision care, disability, and life insurance coverage as well as access to mental health and wellness resources through an employee family assistance program.

Employees also receive a competitive retirement package. These programs are administered through the Union, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable collective agreement.

Employment Equity

At Ledcor we believe diversity, equity, and inclusion should be part of everything we do. We are proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, Veteran status or any other identifying characteristic are encouraged to apply.

Our True Blue team consists of individuals from all backgrounds who contribute diverse perspectives and experiences to Ledcor. We are committed to continuing to build on our culture of empowerment, inclusion and belonging.

Adjustments will be provided in all parts of our hiring process. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance by submitting a request via email. For more information about Ledcor's Inclusion and Diversity initiatives, please visit our I&D page.

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