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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Landmark Development LLC

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Operating Engineer Full-time

East Lyme, CT · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

... Operator / Operating Engineer. The successful candidate must have extensive experience operating large bulldozers, hydraulic excavators, and wheel loaders. Responsibilities * Safely and ...

Madison Polymeric Eng.

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Production Operator

Branford, CT · On-site

$17.40 - $20/hr

Load and unload materials, components, or parts as required * Monitor equipment operation and ... wheels) 10 - 30% of the time 20 lbs - 60 lbs Pulling (cart w/wheels) 10 - 30% of the time 20 lbs ...

Madison Polymeric Eng.

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Production Operator

Branford, CT · On-site

$17.40 - $20/hr

Load and unload materials, components, or parts as required * Monitor equipment operation and ... wheels) 10 - 30% of the time 20 lbs - 60 lbs Pulling (cart w/wheels) 10 - 30% of the time 20 lbs ...

Howmet Aerospace

Machine Operator

Winsted, CT · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

... wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel ... Load and unload parts while monitoring machine performance. * Inspect parts using gauges and ...

Howmet Aerospace

Machine Operator

Winsted, CT · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Load and unload parts while monitoring machine performance. * Inspect parts using gauges and ... wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel ...

Howmet Aerospace

Machine Operator

Winsted, CT · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Load and unload parts while monitoring machine performance. * Inspect parts using gauges and ... wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel ...

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs in Connecticut

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Connecticut salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Connecticut is $18.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $20.34 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 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.

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.
More about Wheel Loader Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Connecticut? The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Connecticut are:
What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Connecticut? For Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Connecticut look for? The top searched job categories for Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Connecticut are:
What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in CT? For Wheel Loader Operator jobs in CT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,551 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Quarry Loader Operator

Haynes International

Deep River, CT • On-site

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Haynes International rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Quarry Loader/Operator
The Loader Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient operation of a large wheel loader to support quarry production. This role is centered on the load cycle: feeding the primary crusher, loading haul trucks, and managing stockpiles to keep material flowing at target rates. This is a specialized equipment role distinct from general heavy equipment operation
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate a large wheel loader to feed the primary crusher at a consistent, production-target rate.
  • Load haul trucks efficiently, minimizing cycle time and spillage.
  • Build, maintain, and rotate stockpiles to manage material gradation and inventory.
  • Monitor crusher feed for oversized material, tramp metal, or blockages and respond appropriately.
  • Perform pre- and post-shift inspections of the loader; report mechanical issues promptly.
  • Maintain accurate load counts and production logs as required.
  • Follow all MSHA and site-specific safety protocols, including traffic patterns, berms, and communication procedures around mobile equipment.
  • Coordinate with the Quarry Foreman and haul truck drivers to maintain production flow.
  • Keep the loader and surrounding work area clean and free of hazards.
Qualifications
  • Verifiable experience operating a large wheel loader (150,000+ lb operating class or larger) in a quarry, aggregate, or bulk material production environment.
  • Experience supporting a production process such as crusher feeding, stockpile management, or plant loading - not just general material handling.
  • General understanding of how loading technique and feed consistency affect downstream production.
  • MSHA training/certification, or ability to complete training upon hire.
  • Valid driver's license required; CDL a plus but not required for this role.
  • Ability to pass drug screen.
  • Strong safety record and ability to work safely around active mobile equipment.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to climb in and out of heavy equipment repeatedly throughout a shift.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment; occasional lifting up to 50 lbs.

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