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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Atomic Transport

Wheel Loader Operator

Indianapolis, IN

$27 - $29/hr

We are currently seeking an experienced Wheel Loader Operator to join our team at the Indianapolis, IN location. If you're looking for stability, competitive pay, and a chance to grow with a trusted ...

GardenCore

Loader Operator

Waterloo, IN · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

The Loader Operator will work onsite in Waterloo, IN . Job Responsibilities * Read job ... Ability to move levers, shift gears, depress pedals and maneuver steering wheel to operator ...

Heidelberg Materials

Loader Operator

Cloverdale, IN · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Proven experience operating heavy equipment, particularly front-end loaders, in a quarry or construction environment. * Valid driver's license with a clean driving record. * Ability to understand and ...

GardenCore

Loader Operator

Noblesville, IN · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Loader Operators will operate a FrontEnd Loader in a rugged outdoor, unpaved environment to move ... Ability to move levers, shift gears, depress pedals and maneuver steering wheel to operator ...

Best Way Disposal

Aggregate Loader Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Tippecanoe County Transfer Station Best Way Disposal is a well-established industry leading waste collection and disposal company in Lafayette and the surrounding areas. We are currently seeking a ...

OmniSource

1st Shift Crane Operator

Goshen, IN · On-site

Job Title Crane Operator Responsibilities Responsibilities: * Operate hydraulic crane to identify ... Ability to operate baler, wheel loader, and fork lift * Ability to work in all types of weather ...

OmniSource

1st Shift Crane Operator

Goshen, IN · On-site

Job Title Crane Operator Responsibilities Responsibilities: * Operate hydraulic crane to identify ... Ability to operate baler, wheel loader, and fork lift * Ability to work in all types of weather ...

OmniSource

1st Shift Crane Operator

Goshen, IN · On-site

No less than one year of experience operating a hydraulic crane, excavator/material handler ... Ability to operate baler, wheel loader, and fork lift * Ability to work in all types of weather ...

OmniSource

1st Shift Crane Operator

Goshen, IN · On-site

No less than one year of experience operating a hydraulic crane, excavator/material handler ... Ability to operate baler, wheel loader, and fork lift * Ability to work in all types of weather ...

OmniSource

1st Shift Crane Operator

Goshen, IN · On-site

No less than one year of experience operating a hydraulic crane, excavator/material handler ... Ability to operate baler, wheel loader, and fork lift * Ability to work in all types of weather ...

Metro Industrial Services

E-Coat Loader

Tipton, IN · On-site

$17/hr

Move parts and racks to e-coat line with a wheeled cart to appropriate location * Load racks and ... operators in the daily schedule as needed * Set up, check, and adjust racks and chart devices to ...

OmniSource

Utility

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Dump Truck, Wheel Loader, Skid Steer Loader and Forklift, in a safe and productive manner. * Ability to cross train on various equipment types. * Ability to cross train in various roles throughout ...

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs in Indiana

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Indiana is $18.06, 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 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.
More about Wheel Loader Operator jobs

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Indiana are:

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

Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Indiana as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,562 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Wheel Loader Operator

Indianapolis, IN

Atomic Transport
Trucking • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Atomic Transportexternal

$27 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Conduct pre- and post-operation inspections of equipment to ensure it is fully operational and clean.

  • Safely operate equipment such as front-end loaders and excavators, adhering to safety standards.

  • Perform and document minor maintenance tasks on equipment and report repairs as needed.

Job description

IntroductionNot Your Average Transport Company.

Searching for the perfect job in transportation? Look no further! Atomic Transport offers a predictable schedule with steady work. We provide competitive wages with benefits and vacation to all full-time drivers. Stop worrying about driving jobs that lack consistency and join the Atomic team with steady money and late model equipment. Become part of our team today!

OverviewAt Atomic Transport, we take pride in being a leading local bulk hauling company based out of Chattanooga, TN with a dedicated fleet of company-owned assets and W2 drivers. Specializing in waste transportation from local transfer stations to landfills, we operate over 25 terminals across the Southeast, Midwest and the Westcoast. We are growing and looking for passionate individuals to grow with us. We are currently seeking an experienced Wheel Loader Operator to join our team at the Indianapolis, IN location. If you’re looking for stability, competitive pay, and a chance to grow with a trusted name in the industry this is your opportunity.
What We Offer:

  • Pay starting at $27-$29/hour, based on experience
  • Weekly pay with time and a half for overtime
  • Regular schedule: Monday–Friday, plus Saturdays as needed
  • Paid holidays, vacation time, and orientation
  • Long-term, stable employment with career advancement potential

Benefits:
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health savings account (HSA)
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Paid referral program
  • Employee discounts

Responsibilities

  • Conduct pre- and post-operation inspections of equipment in accordance with Company policy, ensuring windows, lights, mirrors, and rear-view cameras are clean and fully operational.
  • Safely and efficiently operate equipment, including excavators, front-end loaders, and other machinery, adhering to proper safety standards.
  • Continuously monitor waste for evidence of unacceptable materials and take appropriate action.
  • Regularly assess equipment condition to ensure operational readiness, minimizing downtime; clean tracks or wheels as needed.
  • Perform and document minor maintenance on equipment; refer complex mechanical issues to the Maintenance Shop for repair.
  • Complete Equipment Condition Reports and other required documentation; promptly report necessary repairs to the supervisor.
  • Perform daily radiator cleaning and greasing of equipment to maintain optimal performance.
  • Ensure all equipment is properly cleaned, serviced, and stored at the end of each shift.
  • Follow all Company safety policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Have experience operating a front-end loader (Volvo L150, Volvo 300 Excavator or similar equipment) forklift does not count.
  • Consistent work history and reliability.
  • Pass a pre-employment drug screen.
  • Pass a pre-employment background check.

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