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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Mortenson

Civil Operator -Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... wheels; knowledge of equipment and their uses; basic mathematical skills * Ability to work ...

Heber City

Utility Maintenance Operator-Sewer

Heber, UT · On-site

$23.78 - $35.13/hr

Operates various types of heavy equipment such as six or ten-wheel transport trucks, backhoes ... Operates specialized heavy equipment such as single & tandem axle dump trucks, front-end loaders ...

Heber City

Utility Maintenance Operator-Sewer

Heber, UT · On-site

$23.78 - $35.13/hr

Operates various types of heavy equipment such as six or ten-wheel transport trucks, backhoes ... Operates specialized heavy equipment such as single & tandem axle dump trucks, front-end loaders ...

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs in Utah

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Utah salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Utah is $17.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $19.47 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
Back-Up Equipment Operator - Solid Waste

Back-Up Equipment Operator - Solid Waste

Springville City Corporation

Springville, UT • On-site

$20.95 - $28.26/hr

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago

Springville City rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

628th of 692 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Department:

Solid Waste

Position Reports to:

Solid Waste Field Supervisor

Pay Grade:

10

Employment Type:

Part-time

Exempt/Nonexempt:

Non-exempt

Description:

Under the direction of the Solid Waste Field Supervisor, is a member of a work crew and responsible for solid waste & recycling collection, snow removal duties, sweeper operations, storm water duties, solid waste & recycling can deliveries, and work orders.

Duties:

  • Operates side-loaded trucks for the collection of residential solid waste/recycling.
  • Operates forklift, sweeper truck,10-wheel trucks/trailers, and snowplows.
  • Maintains all prescribed safety policies and procedures,
  • Operates software used for Solid Waste/Recycling/Sweeper routes.
  • Daily lubrication, inspection, and maintenance of equipment.
  • Works as a crew member to assemble and deliver containers of all types to new accounts and homeowners.
  • Works as a crew member to assist in construction, storm drain collection, maintenance, and cleaning projects.

All other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Must be a high school graduate or equivalent. Must have Class B CDL or higher. Must have a safe driving history.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Must have knowledge of operation and maintenance of 10 wheeled trucks. Must have the ability to recognize problems with equipment and make judgments which will identify needed repairs, determining if continued operation will cause damage. Must have the ability to work in a team. Must have a strong work ethic. Must write neatly and have writing and record keeping experience. Must follow sound public relation practices and provide maximum service for citizens. Must have knowledge of necessary safety practices Must be able to quickly learn City solid waste collection procedures and routes and utilize software programs.

Physical Demands:

Must be able to lift heavy loads, up to 100 pounds. Must be able to work outside in all types of weather. Must be physically fit enough to perform heavy manual labor and all job functions. Must have the ability to stand, bend, stoop, squat, walk, sit, climb, etc.


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