1

Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

... 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

... 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

... 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

Grinder Operator

Lancaster, OH · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

... wheels, centers dogs, arbors, mandrels, etc.; measuring devices and inspection equipment including ... Loads prepared program into machine, sets up and loads fixtures tooling and parts following set-up ...

Grinder Operator

Lancaster, OH · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

... wheels, centers dogs, arbors, mandrels, etc.; measuring devices and inspection equipment including ... Loads prepared program into machine, sets up and loads fixtures tooling and parts following set-up ...

Furnace Operator

Euclid, OH · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

3rd Shift Furnace Operator - Join Our Experienced Heat-Treating Team About Us We are a well ... 2-wheeler, or tow motor * Build furnace loads: fill baskets, fixture and wire parts, and break ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Ohio is $18.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.34 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 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.

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 commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Ohio? The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in OH? For Wheel Loader Operator jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Ohio as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,528 per year, or $18 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Rumpke

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Rumpke rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 71 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste and recycling industry. Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional waste and recycling solutions to our customers and communities through a commitment to safety, service, the environment and the growth of our people.
When you join Rumpke, you'll be part of a team providing essential services to millions of residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. You will enjoy competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, matching 401(k), life insurance, paid vacation, and more.
This is your opportunity to make a difference for you and your family. Come join our team!
Heavy Equipment Operators are responsible for safely operating various heavy equipment that perform the spreading, compaction, and/or loading of commercial and residential Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) or recyclable materials.
Responsibilities of Position:
  • Perform efficient safe operation of all heavy equipment including, but not limited to, bulldozers, graders, excavators, backhoes, front end loaders, wheel loaders, off road dump trucks, and other equipment as required
  • Conduct pre-trip/post-trip inspections on heavy equipment and complete necessary documentation
  • Perform routine maintenance on equipment, (i.e., lubricating, fueling, and cleaning equipment)
  • Operate various equipment for general site preparation, landscaping, snow removal, and/or related assignments
  • Continuously monitor the equipment to ensure proper operation and minimal down time, while also remaining aware of surroundings
  • Interact with internal and external customers
  • Clean waste from equipment body, cab, and wheels throughout the day
  • Performing on-site Roll Off work to switch trash compactors as needed based on locations
  • Operating the yard tractor on site to move and stage trailers as needed based on locations
  • *Specific to Boyd County - Hazardous waste management to safely move waste materials in a manner that does not damage the tanks/containers they are held in or endanger personnel or equipment
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibility:
  • This position will not manage employees.

Skills & Abilities Needed for Position:
  • Must be able to show proficiency on heavy equipment
  • Must be able to successfully complete training on other landfill equipment, as necessary
  • Must be dependable, a self-starter, and able to identify and perform daily operational requirements
  • Must possess good communication skills and be able to communicate effectively and professionally with others

Experience & Knowledge Needed for Position:
  • Minimum of three years experience operating heavy equipment such as an excavator, backhoe, dozer, and off-road truck or similar experience preferred
  • Must pass a written and operational test to be certified to operate each piece of heavy equipment
  • *Specific to Boyd County - Must successfully complete hazardous waste management training, as provided in the Personnel Training Plan for Hazardous Waste Job Duties, within six months of employment or assignment to such job duties, along with an annual review of the initial training

Physical Requirements in a Regular Workday:
  • Frequently lifting/carrying a max of 10 lbs. Occasionally lifting/carrying a max of 20 lbs. Rarely lifting/carrying a max of 100 lbs.
  • Continuously pushing/pulling a max of 10 lbs. Frequently pushing/pulling a max of 20 lbs. Rarely pushing/pulling a max of 100 lbs.
  • Frequently working outside in changing temperatures, wet/humid conditions.
  • Continuously working in areas of dust, odors, mist, gases, and other airborne matter.
  • Occasionally stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling.
  • Frequently climbing and/or balancing.
  • Continuously sitting. Rarely standing/walking.

Additional Working Conditions/Aspects:
  • Possible exposure to high traffic conditions and/or tight driving areas.
  • Exposure to residential and commercial waste.
  • Ability to travel between offices, as required.
  • Ability to work flexible hours; expected to work nights and weekends as needed.
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, and/or holidays.
  • Legally eligible to work in the United States.
  • Valid driver's license (if applicable).
  • Must successfully complete pre-employment testing.
  • Must be able to read and speak the English language.
  • *Specific to Boyd County - Occasional work around, or moving of, containers of hazardous waste

This job description is intended to describe the general nature, complexity, and level of work to be performed by employees assigned to this position and is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. It does not prescribe or restrict the work that may be assigned. Furthermore, this does not establish an employment contract and is subject to change at the discretion of the company.
Rumpke Waste and Recycling is committed to equality in all aspects of employment. It is Rumpke's policy to provide equal opportunities to all employees and potential employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Rumpke employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Rumpke logo

About Rumpke

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rumpke, centered in Cincinnati, OH, US, is a leading environmental solutions provider serving the waste and recycling industry. The company, with its official website at rumpke.com, is established on the principle of providing excellent customer service alongside innovative and sustainable solutions. Rumpke offers a wide array of services, including residential, commercial, and industrial waste collections, in addition to recycling programs and landfilling services. The company was founded in 1932 by William F. Rumpke, initially as a junkyard, but evolved over time into one of the most trusted waste management providers.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

Year founded

1932

Social media