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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Meuth Concrete

Experienced Wheel Loader Operator

Henderson, KY ยท On-site

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

Operator is responsible to load out semis to small trailers as needed. Will have to calculate tonnage ad adjust on the fly to insure proper weight of outgoing trucks. Must be flexible with long work ...

Meuth Concrete

Experienced Wheel Loader Operator

Henderson, KY ยท On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

Loader Operator Looking for experienced loader operator. Operator is responsible to load out semis to small trailers as needed. Will have to calculate tonnage and adjust on the fly to insure proper ...

Meuth Concrete

Experienced Wheel Loader Operator

Henderson, KY ยท On-site

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

Operator is responsible to load out semis to small trailers as needed. Will have to calculate tonnage ad adjust on the fly to insure proper weight of outgoing trucks. Must be flexible with long work ...

SRM360

Loader Operator

Lexington, KY ยท On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Loader Operator We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Loader Operator to join our team at SRM Concrete. The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating front-end loaders and other heavy ...

SRM360

Loader Operator

Winchester, KY ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Loader Operator We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Loader Operator to join our team at SRM Concrete. The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating front-end loaders and other heavy ...

Heidelberg Materials

Loader Operator

Grayson, KY ยท On-site

$19.25 - $20/hr

Operate yard loader safely and efficiently to move materials * Maintain equipment through routine inspections and basic servicing * Load and unload materials to support production and customer needs

Atomic Transport

Front-End Loader Operator

Covington, KY ยท On-site

$25/hr

... or wheels as needed. * Perform and document minor maintenance on equipment; refer complex ... Have experience operating a Front-End Loader (Forklift does not count). * Pass a pre-employment ...

Battletown

Loader

KY ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Operate and maintain a wheel loader to load and transport material * Inspect the machine before and after use to ensure it is in good operating condition. * Clean and maintain, including checking ...

Battletown

Loader

Battletown, KY ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Operate and maintain a wheel loader to load and transport material * Inspect the machine before and after use to ensure it is in good operating condition. * Clean and maintain, including checking ...

LPX Group

Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY ยท On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Purpose The Heavy Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work ... Operate heavy duty construction equipment, which includes wheel loaders, excavators, dozers, and ...

LPX Group

Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Purpose The Heavy Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work ... Operate heavy duty construction equipment, which includes wheel loaders, excavators, dozers, and ...

LPX Group

Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY ยท On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Purpose The Heavy Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work ... Operate heavy duty construction equipment, which includes wheel loaders, excavators, dozers, and ...

LPX Group

Equipment Operator - Lexington

Louisville, KY ยท On-site

Purpose The Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work which ... Operate heavy duty construction equipment, which includes wheel loaders, excavators, dozers, and ...

LPX Group

Equipment Operator - Lexington

Louisville, KY ยท On-site

Purpose The Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work which ... Operate heavy duty construction equipment, which includes wheel loaders, excavators, dozers, and ...

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs in Kentucky

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Kentucky is $16.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $18.56 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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Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Experienced Wheel Loader Operator

Experienced Wheel Loader Operator

Meuth Concrete

Henderson, KY

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Looking for experienced Loader Operator.ย  Operator is responsible to load out semis to small trailers as needed.ย  Will have to calculate tonnage ad adjust on the fly to insure proper weight of outgoing trucks.ย  Must be flexible with long work hours and fill in where needed.ย  Monday thru Friday 10 hr. days and 6 hr. days on Saturday.

Candidate Must:

  • be able to Pass a DOT urine andย Hair Follicle test (4 months clean)
  • Current Drivers License
  • have a dependable vehicle to and from work
  • be able to climb up and down on equipment safely
  • be able to perform preshift checks on equipment
  • be able to work with computers and scale programย 
  • be able to multitask priorities during the day
  • be able to show up at start of shift and stay the duration of shift
  • be willing to take the job serious and not miss scheduled days

Benefits include:

  • Competitive hourly pay with overtime
  • Traditional 401(k) / Roth 401(k) retirement plans with up to 3% matching
  • Health Insurance with low premiums and free urgent care clinic through Deaconess At-Work
  • Voluntary wellness program
  • Paid holidays and vacation days

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