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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

This is machine and trades work in operating motor-driven wheel and track mounted equipment which ... Operates truck mounted winches and cranes in order to load and unload material. * Fills fuel tanks ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Bangor, ME · On-site

$15.70 - $19.95/hr

This is machine and trades work in operating motor-driven wheel and track mounted equipment which ... Operates truck mounted winches and cranes in order to load and unload material. * Fills fuel tanks ...

Motor Transport Operator

Bangor, ME · On-site

$21.50 - $28.75/hr

MOTOR TRANSPORT OPERATOR OVERVIEW: Motor transport operators are primarily responsible for ... Operate all-wheel vehicles and equipment over varied terrain and roadways. * Manage load, unload ...

Load and unload customer's trucks/vehicles. * Starts engine, shift gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. * Performs routine maintenance on loader such as lubricating ...

Load and unload customer's trucks/vehicles. * Starts engine, shift gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. * Performs routine maintenance on loader such as lubricating ...

Order Coordinator

Bridgton, ME · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Order Coordinator works closely with the Logistics Manager to ensure loads are built accurately ... Valid operator's license. * Must be insurable under company vehicle policies. REPETITIVE PHYSICAL ...

CDL Class A and B Drivers

Portland, ME · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

If you're most comfortable behind the wheel, take pride in running clean equipment, and understand ... Secure loads properly and ensure safe transport * Maintain accurate logs and comply with DOT ...

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Wheel Loader Operator information

See Maine salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Maine is $18.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $20.72 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.

What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Maine?

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

What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in ME?

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

Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,218 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Mechanic - Heavy Equipment Technician

Casella Waste Systems, Inc.

Scarborough, ME

$21.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Performs repairs and preventative maintenance on heavy equipment, light service equipment, and light trucks.

  • Reads and interprets equipment condition reports and repair orders, and communicates with supervisors and operators about defects and preventive techniques.

  • Completes paperwork related to repairs, documents parts usage, and records work activities such as PMs and oil sampling analysis.


Job description

Overview

The Heavy Equipment Technician performs repairs, preventative maintenance, and corrections 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. 
Hiring Range: $21.50 - $28.00 per hour based on experience


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 
  • 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 card times). 
  • Completes daily consumables report to record hours, fuel and oil usage. 
  • Collects and interprets analysis from oil sampling. 
  • Follows all safety policies and procedures. 
  • Performs overhauls on gas or diesel engines. 
  • Perform tasks per Preventative Maintenance checklist (PM’s). 
  • Keeps records of PM’s checklist, and oil samples. 
  • Make needed repairs to equipment and/or manage third party vendor. 
  • Participates in training and other learning opportunities to expand knowledge of the company, products, sales and services and performs any other duties needed to help drive our vision, fulfill our mission, and/or abide by our core values.  

Career Path Definitions & Distinctions 

Technician B: Technician will complete parts changing tasks such as adjusting tracks properly for wear, changing out the roller on the undercarriage on machinery, determining if track sprockets are good or need to be replaced, servicing cab pressurizers and determining the effectiveness, evaluating oil sample reports, changing out the alternator and starter, assembling hydraulic hose, and ordering parts.  

Technician A:  Technician will complete basic diagnostics. Jobs will include tasks such as replacing components, welding, cutting and fabrication, working on engine transmissions, final drives, completing basic diagnostics for lights, starter etc. Replacing undercarriage, performing fuel system repairs, and diagnose and determine source of oil contamination and complete repairs.  

Master Technician: Technician will complete advanced diagnostics. Jobs will include tasks such as diagnosing and repairing engine faults, determining the cause of wear on tracks, working to improve track life, trouble shooting and repairing ECM, hydraulic issues, AC systems, emission systems and diagnosing and repairing drive lift.  


Qualifications

The successful candidate will have a high school diploma or GED, a minimum of one-year experience inspecting, troubleshooting, and repairing yellow iron machinery, a valid driver's license, be legally eligible to work in the US and at least 18 years of age. Excellent listening and problem solving skills, a demonstrated ability to work as part fo a team in a collaborative environment, the ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing, are required. The ability to multitask, manage multiple repairs and utilize available time to organize and complete work within given deadlines are expected. Ability to perform physically demanding tasks including frequent lifting of heavy components, pushing, pulling, crouching, climbing and consistent standing, walking and grasping. This job operators in both, garage/shop conditions, and outside of the shop which may include various weather conditions.