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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

CRH

Plant Operator/Maintenance

Springfield, MO · On-site

Loader Operator: Operate a large Front End Wheel Loader to move asphalt plant material, load trucks, and manage material throughout the plant site. Maintain detailed logs of your work and support ...

CRH

Plant Operator and Maintenance

Harrisonville, MO · On-site

$20/hr

Loader Operator: Operate a large Front End Wheel Loader to move shot rock, load trucks, and manage material throughout the quarry. Maintain detailed logs of your work and support efficient operations.

CRH

Plant Operator and Maintenance

Harrisonville, MO · On-site

$20/hr

Loader Operator: Operate a large Front End Wheel Loader to move shot rock, load trucks, and manage material throughout the quarry. Maintain detailed logs of your work and support efficient operations.

CRH

Plant Operator/Maintenance

Springfield, MO · On-site

Loader Operator: Operate a large Front End Wheel Loader to move asphalt plant material, load trucks, and manage material throughout the plant site. Maintain detailed logs of your work and support ...

TERRACON

Equipment Operator I

Saint Louis, MO

Demonstrate competency in the operation of at least one type of mobile equipment operated by Terracon e.g., Excavator, Dozer, Motor Graders, Skid Steer, Backhoe, Wheel Loader, Compactor and Water ...

TERRACON

Equipment Operator I

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Demonstrate competency in the operation of at least one type of mobile equipment operated by Terracon e.g., Excavator, Dozer, Motor Graders, Skid Steer, Backhoe, Wheel Loader, Compactor and Water ...

TERRACON

Equipment Operator II

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$25.25 - $35.25/hr

Equipment Operators perform site reconnaissance and confirm locations have met all utility ... Wheel Loader, Compactor and Water Truck. * Provide oversight on a project site to laborers in the ...

TERRACON

Equipment Operator II

Saint Louis, MO

Equipment Operators perform site reconnaissance and confirm locations have met all utility ... Wheel Loader, Compactor and Water Truck. * Provide oversight on a project site to laborers in the ...

SiteOne Landscape Supply

Equipment Operator

Springfield, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

... wheel loaders, and excavators, in a safe and proficient manner in accordance with company ... Experience operating equipment such as front-end loaders, skid steers, track loaders, articulating ...

SiteOne Landscape Supply

Equipment Operator

Springfield, MO · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

... wheel loaders, and excavators, in a safe and proficient manner in accordance with company ... Experience operating equipment such as front-end loaders, skid steers, track loaders, articulating ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Wright City, MO

$18 - $24.50/hr

Operate various types of wheeled heavy equipment such as Volvo wheeled loaders or Liebherr material ... Ensure a safe operating area around machine at all times. * Follow all applicable federal, state ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Wright City, MO · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Operate various types of wheeled heavy equipment such as Volvo wheeled loaders or Liebherr material ... Ensure a safe operating area around machine at all times. * Follow all applicable federal, state ...

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs in Missouri

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Missouri salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Missouri is $17.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $20.05 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.
More about Wheel Loader Operator jobs

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Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,026 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

TRANSFER STATION LOADER OPERATOR

City of St. Peters

Saint Peters, MO • On-site

$28.46 - $30.19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Summary The City of St. Peters is looking for a motivated and safety-conscious Transfer Station Loader Operator to join our Solid Waste Division. This position supports the daily operations of our new, state-of-the-art Material Recovery Facility (MRF) and Transfer Station by ensuring the efficient handling, sorting, and disposal of solid waste and recyclable materials. This is a hands-on role ideal for individuals with experience in heavy equipment operation, solid waste management, or recycling services.
Normal Hours: 40 hours per week with a rotating schedule that includes Saturdays and some holidays. Hours will rotate to cover operational needs between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform skilled labor in the processing and transfer of municipal solid waste and recyclable materials.
  • Operate loaders and other heavy equipment with precision in a fast-paced environment.
  • Assist with routine servicing and minor repairs of equipment; promptly report maintenance needs.
  • Promote a clean and safe work environment by following established City safety standards.
  • Provide courteous and professional customer service by responding to inquiries and concerns.
  • Support the onboarding and on-the-job training of new team members in safety, equipment uses, and best practices.

Minimum Requirements
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully authorized alien worker.
  • High School graduate or GED certificate.
  • One (1) year of applicable experience.
  • Class "B" CDL with air brakes valid in the state of Missouri or obtain within 120 days of employment. Commercial drivers' instruction permit (CDIP) must be obtained within 60 days of employment.
  • Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 75 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 lbs.

Why Join Us
  • Work in a modern facility equipped with advanced technology to support efficient recycling and environmental sustainability.
  • Be part of a mission-driven team committed to public service and environmental stewardship.
  • Enjoy stable, full-time municipal employment with excellent benefits and growth opportunities.
  • Make a real impact by supporting waste diversion and recycling initiatives that benefit the St. Peters community.

Compensation & Benefits:
  • Competitive Salary: Market-based pay structure with step placement determined by qualifications and experience
  • Retirement & Financial security: Missouri LAGERS L-6 defined benefit pension plan (with Rule of 80), 457 deferred compensation plan, Roth retirement savings option, and retiree health coverage
  • Leave & Holiday benefits: Vacation (up to 6 weeks), sick leave, 12 paid holidays and 1 personal day
  • Health & Wellness: Medical, dental and vision coverage options; City-paid Life and AD&D insurance ($50,000); long-term disability; voluntary supplemental insurance options, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and Preventative Care Time Off
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): medical and dependent care options
  • Education Support: Tuition reimbursement (up to 6-8 classes per year)

Apply Today Bring your skills, reliability, and commitment to safety to a team that values your work. Apply now to join the City of St. Peters as a Transfer Station Loader Operator.
All candidates for this position will be subject to a comprehensive background check and drug screening. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of these checks. The City is committed to maintaining a safe and drug-free work environment and requires all employees to adhere to these standards.

Apply