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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

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.

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 ...

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 ...

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

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/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

Kansas City, MO

$18.50 - $25.25/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

$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 ...

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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 Jul 16, 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.

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
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Missouri as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,026 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Loader Operator for Joplin Concrete Company

Joplin Concrete

Joplin, MO

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Joplin Concrete Company is hiring a Loader Operator.

Join our Team! Joplin Concrete Company in Joplin Missouri is hiring for a full loader operator at its Newman Road location. This position is responsible for operating a straight or articulated rubber tired vehicle equipped with a front mount hydraulically powered bucket or scoop to lift and transport bulk material to and from storage or processing areas, to feed conveyors, hoppers or chutes, clean roadways, load trucks or railcars. This position also involves general yard duties and occasionally traveling to other Joplin Concrete locations as needed. A candidate experienced in Wheel Loader is preferred but not required.  

We offer a superior benefits package. Our benefits include health, dental and vision insurance, paid vacation and holidays, 401K with company match, company paid group life insurance, voluntary life insurance available, 100% employer paid uniforms, and safety boot and safety eyeglass reimbursement programs.

See below for the Loader Operator job description:

Loader Operator

Reports to: Manager

NOTE: Statements included in this description are intended to reflect the general duties and responsibilities of the position and are not intended to be all inclusive.

Job Summary (This is a Non-Exempt Position)

Operates straight or articulated rubber-tired vehicle equipped with front mount hydraulically powered bucket or scoop to lift and transport bulk material to and from storage or processing areas, to feed conveyors, hoppers or chutes, clean roadways, and load trucks or railcars.

Job Requirements

  • Ability to take orders, instructions, and guidance from supervisors.
  • Ensure materials are placed in the proper stockpiles, hoppers, bins or chutes.
  • Must pass pre-employment drug / alcohol screening and complete Job Placement Health Screen.
  • Adheres to safety requirements and procedures, and wearing of required safety equipment and clothing.
  • Preference may be given to Job Candidates with a CDL to allow for Loader Operator to fill in occasionally for a driver position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • At the start of the shift, perform a pre-shift inspection of equipment to ensure it is safe to operate.
  • Start engine, shift gears, press pedals, and turn steering wheel to operate loader.
  • Move levers to lower and tilt bucket and drive loader forward to force bucket into bulk material.
  • Move levers to raise and tilt bucket when filled, drive vehicle to truck, conveyor, hopper, or chute, and move levers to dump material.
  • Grade, ramp, and maintain stockpiles of bulk material.
  • Keep loading area clear and level.
  • Keep equipment clean and safe.
  • Assist in greasing, cleaning, oiling, and performing minor repairs on loader.
  • Maintain constant communication with all other operators, drivers, and employees.
  • Assist other operators or employees when heavy or awkward duties are required.
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor - other duties may fall within the general laborer job description.

Physical Requirements

  • Physical demand requires LIGHT level work:
    • Exert up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or
    • Up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or
    • A negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.
  • Constantly required to push / pull levers, turn steering wheel and press / release foot pedals while operating loader.
  • Occasionally required to reach above shoulders and climb to get in / out of loader.
  • Constantly required to sit while operating loader.
  • Constantly required to hear sounds, and have clarity of near, far, and peripheral sight with depth perception.
  • Requires balance and equilibrium when climbing ladder and on / off equipment.
  • Continuously work in various weather conditions – hot, cold, wet, dry, humid, wind, etc.
  • Occasionally walk / carry objects on varying terrain – paved, unpaved, dirt, rough terrain, etc.

Job Type: Full-time

Starting Wage: $18.00

Benefits:

  • Health, dental and vision insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Employee assistance program
  • 100% Employer paid uniforms
  • Safety Boot and Safety Eyeglass reimbursement programs

Apply