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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Alter Trading Corp

Supervisor

Anoka, MN · On-site

Will also be responsible for reviewing daily logs from operators to ensure maintenance activities ... Operate wheel loader and car crusher. * Break down wheels and tires. * Must be flexible with hours ...

Government Jobs

Equipment Operator - Traffic

Rochester, MN · On-site

$29.60 - $31.55/hr

Basic types of equipment that Equipment Operators may operate include, but are not limited to tandem and single axle snow plow trucks, street sweepers, wheel loaders, skid loaders, jackhammers, air ...

Reputable Recruiting

Sales Rep

Minneapolis, MN

They are an authorized distributor of cranes, excavators, wheel loaders, bulldozers, compact ... Operators and Service Technicians are encouraged to apply * Proven record of building and ...

Jordan Sitter Associates

Sales Rep

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

They are an authorized distributor of cranes, excavators, wheel loaders, bulldozers, compact ... Operators and Service Technicians are encouraged to apply * Proven record of building and ...

ACA Truck Leasing

OTR Lease Operator

Red Wing, MN

$2.8K - $3.8K/wk

No steering wheel holders justlooking to bump docks and be home every week. Preferably looking ... Light loads = Better fuel mileage * 3,000 - 4,000 miles per week FREIGHT * 60% Dedicated ...

ACA Truck Leasing

OTR Lease Operator

Eagan, MN

$2.8K - $3.8K/wk

No steering wheel holders justlooking to bump docks and be home every week. Preferably looking ... Light loads = Better fuel mileage * 3,000 - 4,000 miles per week FREIGHT * 60% Dedicated ...

ACA Truck Leasing

OTR Lease Operator

Crystal, MN

$2.8K - $3.8K/wk

No steering wheel holders justlooking to bump docks and be home every week. Preferably looking ... Light loads = Better fuel mileage * 3,000 - 4,000 miles per week FREIGHT * 60% Dedicated ...

ACA Truck Leasing

OTR Lease Operator

Ramsey, MN · On-site

$2.8K - $3.8K/wk

No steering wheel holders justlooking to bump docks and be home every week. Preferably looking ... Light loads = Better fuel mileage * 3,000 - 4,000 miles per week FREIGHT * 60% Dedicated ...

ACA Truck Leasing

OTR Lease Operator

Edina, MN

$2.8K - $3.8K/wk

No steering wheel holders justlooking to bump docks and be home every week. Preferably looking ... Light loads = Better fuel mileage * 3,000 - 4,000 miles per week FREIGHT * 60% Dedicated ...

ACA Truck Leasing

OTR Lease Operator

Big Lake, MN · On-site

$2.8K - $3.8K/wk

No steering wheel holders justlooking to bump docks and be home every week. Preferably looking ... Light loads = Better fuel mileage * 3,000 - 4,000 miles per week FREIGHT * 60% Dedicated ...

ACA Truck Leasing

OTR Lease Operator

Chaska, MN · On-site

$2.8K - $3.8K/wk

No steering wheel holders justlooking to bump docks and be home every week. Preferably looking ... Light loads = Better fuel mileage * 3,000 - 4,000 miles per week FREIGHT * 60% Dedicated ...

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Minnesota is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $20.96 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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What job categories do people searching Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in MN? For Wheel Loader Operator jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Minnesota as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,661 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Supervisor

Supervisor

Alter Trading Corp

Anoka, MN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Alter Trading rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 72 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Operations Supervisor

Alter Metal Recycling is a 128-year-old Midwest, family-owned business that is an industry leader in scrap metal recycling, operating over 70 facilities throughout the Midwest, Great Plains / High Plains, Arkansas and Mississippi. With a strong commitment to customer service and sustainability, we are a trusted source for both ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Our corporate support center and marketing operations are based in St. Louis, MO, with trading offices in St. Louis and Hong Kong.

The supervisor will learn all roles of the department so that he/she can cross-train employees within the department. Will also be responsible for reviewing daily logs from operators to ensure maintenance activities are coordinated timely and efficiently and will complete production output reports to Facility Manager and others.


  • Direct shift production staff to perform work duties.
  • Manage the performance of the production employees under direct supervision, providing constructive feedback to improve performance.
  • Use power and hydraulic tools to remove auto parts, de-manufacturing vehicles for recycling.
  • Inventory of parts removed.
  • Operate wheel loader and car crusher.
  • Break down wheels and tires.
  • Must be flexible with hours worked to meet production deadlines.
  • Train new staff as needed.
  • Follows all safety and environmental processes.
  • All other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate a proactive approach to work, a strong commitment to safety, and a willingness to learn and grow. Ability to work in all weather conditions such as snow, rain, and fluctuating temperatures. A high school diploma or GED is preferred, and prior experience in metals or industrial operations is advantageous. Strong communication skills and a positive, team-oriented attitude are essential.

Why Join Alter?

  • Be part of a long-standing, reputable company.
  • Work in a supportive and safety-focused environment.
  • Opportunities for growth and development within the organization.
  • Receive a comprehensive benefits package.

What Alter Trading employees say

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