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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Power Operator - LEB

Lebanon, IN · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... wheels; knowledge of equipment and their uses; basic mathematical skills * Ability to work ...

Power Operator - LEB

Lebanon, IN · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... wheels; knowledge of equipment and their uses; basic mathematical skills * Ability to work ...

The individual must be physically fit enough to pack out and load 55 lb. paper bags for extended ... Ability to push/pull 15oo pounds using wheeled cart or conveyor rollers. * Ability to work required ...

EXTRUSION OPERATOR

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

The individual must be physically fit enough to pack out and load 55 lb. paper bags for extended ... Ability to push/pull 15oo pounds using wheeled cart or conveyor rollers. * Ability to work required ...

The individual must be physically fit enough to pack out and load 55 lb. paper bags for extended ... Ability to push/pull 15oo pounds using wheeled cart or conveyor rollers. * Ability to work required ...

2nd Shift Checker Loader Bedding

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$23.93 - $24.85/hr

Carpenter Co. has an immediate opening for a Forklift Operator in our Bedding Docks Department on ... Lock out and chock wheels. * Use computers to scan rolls. * Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Shipping and Receiving Operator

Michigan City, IN · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

As a Shipping/Receiving Operator, you will be responsible for operating power industrial equipment ... Figure load size and method of loading. * Locate trailer and prepare for loading (chock wheels, etc.

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Wheel Loader Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in IN? For Wheel Loader Operator jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Indiana as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Full Time, 93% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,562 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Technician

Republic Services

Fort Wayne, IN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Republic Services rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 530 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 70 rated recycling and waste


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: The Heavy Equipment Technician performs repairs and maintenance on heavy equipment, compact heavy equipment, light service equipment, and light trucks. Typical repairs include, but are not limited to, preventative maintenance inspections, hydraulic, fuel, exhaust, brakes, suspension, electrical, HVAC, and emission systems.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Maintains advanced knowledge to diagnose and repair mechanical problems on heavy equipment.
  • Performs repair or preventative maintenance on electrical, diesel and gasoline vehicles, including compactor, excavator, wheel loader, and other vehicles to maximize safe and productive operations. Typical repairs and maintenance would include work on engines, transmissions, chassis, drivelines and body components, hydraulic, brake, electrical and suspension systems, wheels, tires and undercarriages.
  • Reads and interprets equipment condition reports and/or repair orders, communicate with supervisor and/or operator for clarification of defects and discuss preventive techniques with operators to minimize future repairs.
  • Completes paperwork associated with repairing equipment, documenting parts usage and accounting for applied times (i.e., work order times compared to time card times).
  • Completes daily consumables report to record hours, fuel and oil usage, and provide information for input into Dossier, Republic Services Fleet Management Software system.
  • Collects and interprets analyses from oil sampling, on-board computer, and fleet management software.
  • Follows all safety policies and procedures.
  • Performs overhauls on gas or diesel engines.


QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Advanced knowledge in air brakes, tires, hydraulics, advanced electrical, advanced drive train knowledge, suspension, steering and wheel-end components training as evidenced by ASE Certification.
  • At least 1 year of experience as a technician working on heavy equipment.
  • Minimum of 1 year of prior experience as a technician working on heavy equipment, demonstrating the ability to service increasingly more challenging maintenance repairs.Mechanical Trade School certificate or degree
  • Certificate in electrical diagnostics.
  • Applicable ASE certifications.
  • Working knowledge of Tier 4 emission systems.
  • Welding and/or fabrication skills and/or experience.


MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Minimum of 1 year of experience in a technician position requiring knowledge and application of OSHA Haz Com; OSHA Lock Out Tag Out and all OSHA Fire Protection regulations.

Rewarding Compensation and Benefits

Eligible employees can elect to participate in:
Comprehensive medical benefits coverage, dental plans and vision coverage.
Health care and dependent care spending accounts.
Short- and long-term disability.
Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment insurance.
Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP).
Employee discount programs.
Retirement plan with a generous company match.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Benefits: https://jobs.republicservices.com/us/en/about-us/benefits

The statements used herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by an employee in this position, and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required by an incumbent so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Company.

EEO STATEMENT:Republic Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, relationship or association with a protected veteran (spouses or other family members), genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) is a leader in the environmental services industry. We provide customers with the most complete set of products and services, including recycling, waste, special waste, hazardous waste and field services.Our industry-leading commitments to advance circularity and support decarbonization are helping deliver on our vision to partner with customers to create a more sustainable world.

In 2023, Republic's total company revenue was $14.9 billion, and adjusted EBITDA was $4.4 billion. We serve 13 million customers and operate more than 1,000 locations, including collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and landfills.

Although we operate across North America, the collection, recycling, treatment, or disposal of materials is a local business, and the dynamics and opportunities differ in each market we serve. By combining local operational management with standardized business practices, we drive greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational decisions at the local level, closest to the customer.

Our customers, including small businesses, major corporations and municipalities, want a partner with the expertise and capabilities to effectively manage their multiple recycling and waste streams. They choose Republic Services because we are committed to exceeding their expectations and helping them achieve their sustainability goals. Our 41,000 team members understand that it's not just what we do that matters, but how we do it.

Our company values guide our daily actions:

  • Safe: We protect the livelihoods of our colleagues and communities.

  • Committed to Serve: We go above and beyond to exceed our customers' expectations.

  • Environmentally Responsible:We take action to improve our environment.

  • Driven: We deliver results in the right way.

  • Human-Centered:We respect the dignity and unique potential of every person.

We are proud of our high employee engagement score of 86. We have an inclusive and diverse culture where every voice counts. In addition, our team positively impacted 4.6 million people in 2023 through the Republic Services Charitable Foundation and local community grants. These projects are designed to meet the specific needs of the communities we serve, with a focus on building sustainable neighborhoods.

STRATEGY

Republic Services' strategy is designed to generate profitable growth. Through acquisitions and industry advancements, we safely and sustainably manage our customers' multiple waste streams through a North American footprint of vertically integrated assets.

We focus on three areas of growth to meet the increasing needs of our customers: recycling and waste, environmental solutions and sustainability innovation.

With our integrated approach, strengthening our position in one area advances other areas of our business. For example, as we grow volume in recycling and waste, we collect additional material to bolster our circularity capabilities. And as we expand environmental solutions, we drive additional opportunities to provide these services to our existing recycling and waste customers.

Recycling and Waste

We continue to expand our recycling and waste business footprint throughout North America through organic growth and targeted acquisitions. The 13 million customers we serve and our more than 5 million pick-ups per day provide us with a distinct advantage. We aggregate materials at scale, unlocking new opportunities for advanced recycling. In addition, we are cross-selling new products and services to better meet our customers' specific needs.

Environmental Solutions

Our comprehensive environmental solutions capabilities help customers safely manage their most technical waste streams. We are expanding both our capabilities and our geographic footprint. We see strong growth opportunities for our offerings, including PFAS remediation, an increasing customer need.


SUSTAINABILITY INNOVATION

Republic's recent innovations to advance circularity and decarbonization demonstrate our unique ability to leverage sustainability as a platform for growth.

The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility. This innovative site processes rigid plastics from our recycling centers, producing recycled materials that promote true bottle-to-bottle circularity. We also formed Blue Polymers, a joint venture with Ravago, to develop facilities that will further process plastic material from our Polymer Centers to help meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging. We are building a network of Polymer Centers and Blue Polymer facilities across North America.

We continue to advance decarbonization at our landfills. As demand for renewable energy continues to grow, we have 70 landfill gas-to-energy projects in operation and plan to expand our portfolio to 115 projects by 2028.

RECENT RECOGNITION

  • Barron's 100 Most Sustainable Companies

  • CDP Discloser

  • Dow Jones Sustainability Indices

  • Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies

  • Fortune World's Most Admired Companies

  • Great Place to Work

  • Sustainability Yearbook S&P Global


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