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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Amrize

Loader Operator

Buckeye, AZ

$16.50 - $22/hr

Loader Operator ABOUT THE ROLE The Loader Operator operates straight or articulated rubber-tired ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ...

Amrize

Loader Operator

Buckeye, AZ

$16 - $21/hr

Loader Operator ABOUT THE ROLE The Loader Operator operates straight or articulated rubber-tired ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ...

Amrize

Loader Operator

Buckeye, AZ

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Loader Operator ABOUT THE ROLE The Loader Operator operates straight or articulated rubber-tired ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ...

Amrize

Loader Operator

Buckeye, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Loader Operator ABOUT THE ROLE The Loader Operator operates straight or articulated rubber-tired ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ...

Amrize

Loader Operator

Buckeye, AZ · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Loader Operator ABOUT THE ROLE The Loader Operator operates straight or articulated rubber-tired ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ...

Amrize

Loader Operator

Buckeye, AZ

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Loader Operator ABOUT THE ROLE The Loader Operator operates straight or articulated rubber-tired ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ...

Amrize

Loader Operator

Buckeye, AZ

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Loader Operator ABOUT THE ROLE The Loader Operator operates straight or articulated rubber-tired ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ...

Amrize

Loader Operator

Buckeye, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Loader Operator ABOUT THE ROLE The Loader Operator operates straight or articulated rubber-tired ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ...

RB Global Inc.

Loader Operator I

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions. Responsibilities

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs in Arizona

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Arizona is $17.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $19.95 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
What are the most commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Arizona? For Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Wheel Loader Operator jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Wheel Loader Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in AZ? For Wheel Loader Operator jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,785 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Loader Operator

Amrize

Buckeye, AZ

$16.50 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Location: Buckeye Hills AZ
Job Req ID: 17213


Join our amazing team and contribute as a: 
 

Loader Operator
 

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Loader Operator operates straight or articulated rubber-tired tractor-type vehicle equipped with front-mounted hydraulically powered bucket or scoop to lift and transport bulk materials to and from storage or processing areas. 


WHAT YOU'LL ACCOMPLISH 

  • Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves levers to lower and tilt bucket and drives front-end loader forward to force bucket into bulk material. Moves levers to raise and tilt
  • bucket when filled, drives vehicle to work site, and moves levers to dump material.
  • Perform assignments outlined by supervisors and standard procedures are followed in the performance of duties. Work is inspected periodically for safety and economy in operation. Performs routine maintenance on loader, such as lubricating, fueling, and cleaning.
  • Maintain an effective system of communications with supervisors and customers serviced.
  • Perform Pre-Shift Inspections: Inspect batch plant to ensure a smooth start up for the day
  • On a daily basis inspect gates to assure proper functionality, all drive belts and conveyor belts, all trough and return rollers.
  • Responsible for batch plant clean up and Properly store and secure all tools and equipment after use.
  • Daily inspection of all of the Water/Boiler System and air systems. Follow proper start up and shutdown procedures.
  • On a weekly basis maintain cleanliness of site by vacuuming batch plant office floor, emptying all trash cans in office, and cleaning bathrooms in plant office.
  • Ensures on a weekly basis that all areas of the plant are greased and equipped to accept grease.
  • Inspect all bearings on the batch plant.
  • On a monthly basis, Inspect Dust Collector to ensure it is in proper operating condition.
  • On a quarterly basis check oil in all gear boxes and check all drive belts associated with the gear box. 
  • Partake in annual oil change and update all drive belts associated with the gear box.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to communicating, improving and adhering to health, safety and environmental policies in all work environments and areas. Promote a culture of safety and exhibit these behaviors.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

  • 12 months of loader operator experience with 980M/982M loaders
  • Prior work experience preferred working in or around heavy equipment, construction, or paving.
  • Basic mechanical maintenance knowledge and skills.
  • Proven safety record.
  • Able to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • High school \ GED
  • Bilingual Spanish/English a plus.

Additional Requirements:

  • Successful candidates must adhere to all safety protocols and proper use of Amrize approved Personal Protection Equipment ("PPE"), including but not limited to respirators. Employees that are required to wear respirators must be clean shaven where the respirator seal meets the face in order to pass the qualitative and quantitative fit tests.

WHAT WE OFFER

  • Competitive salary 
  • Retirement Savings: Choose from 401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth after-tax savings
  • Medical, Dental, Disability and Life Insurance 
  • Holistic Health & Well-being programs 
  • Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for health and dependent care
  • Vision and other Voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Paid time off & paid holidays 
  • Paid Parental Leave (maternity & paternity)
  • Educational Assistance Program
  • Dress for your day

Accepting applications until 8/17/26


Did we spark your interest? Build your future with us and apply!

HR Contact: Katherine Therese HENNESSY

Apply