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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Silica Company

Loader Operator

Middleton, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

The Loader Operator operates basic heavy equipment such as loaders, dozers, and excavators safely under supervision. U.S. Silica is a leading producer of industrial minerals essential to modern life.

Pratt Industries

Loader Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ... Minimum of six (6) months experience operating machinery * Professional Attitude & conduct * Multi ...

Pratt Industries

Loader Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ... Minimum of six (6) months experience operating machinery * Professional Attitude & conduct * Multi ...

Pratt Industries

Loader Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ... Minimum of six (6) months experience operating machinery * Professional Attitude & conduct * Multi ...

Pratt Industries

Loader Operator

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ... Minimum of six (6) months experience operating machinery * Professional Attitude & conduct * Multi ...

Pratt Industries

Loader Operator

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ... Minimum of six (6) months experience operating machinery * Professional Attitude & conduct * Multi ...

Pratt Industries

Loader Operator

La Vergne, TN

$16.75 - $22/hr

Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader. Moves ... Minimum of six (6) months experience operating machinery * Professional Attitude & conduct * Multi ...

OmniSource

Crane Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

... operating a hydraulic crane, excavator/material handler Ability to operate baler ... wheel loader, and fork lift Ability to work in all types of weather conditions Ability to ...

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Wheel Loader Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Tennessee is $17.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $19.42 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Tennessee?

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

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Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Tennessee as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,827 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Loader Operator

Middleton, TN • On-site

U.S. Silica Company
Coal, Metals and Minerals Mining • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about U.S. Silica Companyexternal

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

U.S. Silica rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Loader Operator operates basic heavy equipment such as loaders, dozers, and excavators safely under supervision.

U.S. Silica is a leading producer of industrial minerals essential to modern life. With $1B+ in annual revenue, 26 production facilities, and industry-leading last-mile logistics for the oil & gas sector, we supply high-quality silica, diatomaceous earth, clay, and other materials to industries ranging from energy and construction to food & beverage.

As a portfolio company of Apollo Global Management, we are positioned for strategic growth in both our Oil & Gas and Industrial segments. For more than 100 years, our products and innovations have helped make the world cleaner, safer, and more energy-efficient.
U.S. Silica is an equal opportunity employer for all without regard to race, gender, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. U.S. Silica is a smoke- and drug-free workplace.
  • High School Diploma or GED required. 
  • High level of safety and quality.
  • Ability to multi-task at a fast-pace (at times), work in outside conditions during all seasons, climb multi-levels by stairs and ladders, work from elevated platforms, use hand tools (shovel, hammer, wrenches, etc.).
  • Good problem-solving skills.
  • Mine Safety and Health (MSHA) Knowledge - Preferred.
  • Forklift experience - Preferred.
  • Computer Software - Preferred.
  • Warehouse experience - Preferred.
  • Must complete 36 hrs of new miner safety training, First Aid, CPR, and receive refresher course every year.
  • Must be willing to adhere to safety rules and regulations.
  • Must be able to pass a drug test and remain drug free.
  • Must be willing to consent to a background check.
  • Must be eligible to legally work in the United States.
  • Must be willing to work as a team Minimum of high school education or equivalent.
  • Minimum of 1 year of in similar capacity preferably in mining.
  • Must be qualified to operate loader Operator will perform pre-operation inspection of equipment at the beginning of the shift and periodically throughout the shift.
  • Must be knowledgeable of proper use and observe lock-out/tag-out procedures.
  • Maintain equipment by performing regular preventative maintenance checks.
  • Assist with mill set up, screen changes, and clean up as needed.
  • Perform material density tests throughout shift.
  • Keep work area clean throughout the shift.
  • Monitor reclaim hopper and conveyor.
  • Discharge material into appropriate silo.
  • Operate dump truck when needed.
  • Report any problems to immediate supervisor Additional duties as assigned.

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