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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Warren Paving, Inc.

The Quarry Equipment Operator will primarily be operating a large wheel front-end loader and will be responsible for feeding material to the crushing plant, loading material in off road trucks and ...

Rumpke

Heavy Equipment Operator

Butler, KY · On-site

... loaders, wheel loaders, off road dump trucks, and other equipment as required * Conduct pre-trip ... Operating the yard tractor on site to move and stage trailers as needed based on locations

Ulliman Schutte

Equipment Operators

Louisville, KY · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator Daily Life * Safely and efficiently operate heavy equipment such as, excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, or wheel loaders. * Maintain proper care in the use and maintenance of ...

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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 20, 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
Heavy Equipment Operator - Day Shift

Heavy Equipment Operator - Day Shift

Florida Tile, Inc.

Lawrenceburg, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Would you like to join a team where you can make a difference and have fun doing it? Join Florida Tile! For over sixty years, Florida Tile has consistently taken the lead as an innovator by implementing new technology, delivering high quality products and protecting our indoor and outdoor environments. We provide a wide range of benefits and a family-friendly work environment. If this sounds like what you're looking for, apply to Florida Tile today!
This is an extremely fast pace and physical job. Production team members lift, push, pull 20-50lbs throughout a 12-hour shift.
Compensation/Benefits/Employee Perks:
  • 12 Hour Rotating Shifts
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • All benefits- Health, vision, dental, long- and short-term disability, life insurance, and 401k matching starting at 60 days!
  • Tuition Reimbursement after one year
  • Free Employee Assistance Program

Requirements:
  • Must pass a drug screen and background check
  • Consistent work history
  • Background in Manufacturing a plus
  • Must be able to work overtime

SUMMARY: Performs responsible semiskilled work in the unloading, transporting, storing, batching & ball milling of raw materials; does related work as required.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Unloading, transporting, and storing raw materials delivered by rail car.
  • Follows department Standard Operating Procedure (SOP);
  • Operates a fork lift, as necessary;
  • Proficiently operate a wheel loader;
  • Reviews & verifies raw material shipment documents from freight hauler to ensure proper materials have been delivered;
  • Determines where crude materials are to be unloaded;
  • Takes samples from each bulk truck as required;
  • Verifies QC approval of bulk truck prior to unloading;
  • Properly fills silos with crude raw materials from bunkers;
  • Maintains a safe inventory level of raw materials in crude material silos;
  • Unloads and transports special materials, as required;
  • Operates automated feeding, crushing, batching & conveying systems;
  • Operates multi-stage continuous ball mill in the preparation of body slip;
  • Performs PM and minor maintenance on Body Prep equipment;
  • Maintains cleanliness of any/all work areas at all times;
  • Practices correct safety procedures;
  • Keeps accurate reports on volume of material processed and/or consumed;
  • Completes all other reports accurately, neatly, & completely;
  • Cleans magnets & screens according to current SOP's;
  • Performs & reports results of QC audits per SOP's;
  • Monitor dust & re-work levels, report any/all issues immediately;
  • Checks & reports emissions conditions of dust collection equipment in Body Prep area;
  • Operates fired scrap crushing system as necessary;
  • Ensures that correct batch formula is used per current specifications;
  • Cuts bags of material as necessary;
  • Checks & empties dust from dust collectors as necessary;
  • Cross-trained in the operation of the Spray Dryer;
  • General safety hazards, and inside and outside environmental conditions.
  • Performs related tasks as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • General knowledge of the types of material being handled.
  • General knowledge of inventory practices.
  • General knowledge of the occupational hazards involved and the safety precautions necessary for proper unloading of the materials & the proper operation of the Body Prep equipment.
  • Skill in maneuvering a forklift.
  • Skill in maneuvering a wheel loader.
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds frequently.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records.
  • Ability to make decisions and plan.
  • Ability to follow oral and written directions.
  • Ability to operate PC based control system for automated batching & conveying systems.
  • Ability to interface with PC for data entry of process control parameters.
  • Any combination of education & experience equivalent to graduation from high school.
  • Ability to operate a fork lift & wheel loader.
  • Ability to proficiently interface with PC based, automated equipment control systems.
  • Requires wearing a respirator as needed.

Florida Tile provides an array of benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Our comprehensive benefit program includes:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Wellness Program
  • Employer Paid Short and Long Term Disability
  • Employer Paid Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Supplemental Life, Supplemental AD&D, Accident, and Critical Illness Coverage
  • 401k Retirement Plan and Employer Provided 401k Matching
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid Time Off
  • Employee Assistance Program

Florida Tile is committed to treating people fairly and respectfully, we are committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity in the people we hire, the manner in which they are trained, their selections for promotions and transfer, and in all other aspects of employment. Your ability and performance are the keys to your success here at Florida Tile, regardless of your age, race, color, marital status, sexual orientation, sex, religion, creed national origin, political ideology, veteran status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability unrelated to the ability to perform the job, in accordance with applicable

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