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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Service Center Metals

Heavy Equipment Operator

Prince George, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Step into a powerful role as a Heavy Equipment Operator , where you'll command wheel loaders and high-impact machinery that keep our aluminum production moving-rain, shine, and everything in between.

Skillit

Heavy Equipment Operator

Chesapeake, VA

$28 - $36/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate excavators, bulldozers, wheel loaders, skid steers and compactors for site prep, grading ... NCCER or vendor/operator certification a plus * CDL Class B preferred but not required (will ...

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Wheel Loader Operator information

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How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Virginia is $18.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.96 and $21.20 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 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.
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Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Contract, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,135 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Service Center Metals

Prince George, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 hours ago

Job description

Looking for steady work without chasing job sites every week? Ready for a career where weather doesn’t control your paycheck?

At Service Center Metals in Prince George, VA, we offer just that.

Step into a powerful role as a Heavy Equipment Operator, where you’ll command wheel loaders and high-impact machinery that keep our aluminum production moving—rain, shine, and everything in between. No more long commutes to random locations. No more lost hours when the forecast turns bad.

At SCM, you’ll find:

  • A single, stable worksite
  • Year-round, reliable hours
  • Strong benefits
  • A safety-driven culture
  • A team that values skill, dedication, and long-term growth

 

Must Haves:

  • Be dependable and accountable
  • Excellent attendance
  • A great attitude is a MUST
  • The ability to work a 12-hour rotating shift including days, nights, and two weekends a month
  • 2-3 years’ experience operating heavy equipment
  • Able to reach, stoop, bend, and lift, up to 50 lbs. daily and 75 lbs. occasionally
  • Work effectively in hot (120) and cold temperatures for long periods of time
  • High School Graduate or GED

Job Duties:

  • Comply with safety regulations and maintain clean orderly work areas
  • Completes pre-check equipment inspections on equipment and reports any malfunctions
  • Operating equipment in a safe manner, also ensuring proper maintenance of machinery
  • Actively participates in performing safety observations on fellow Team Members, and using behavior-based safety methodology to continuously improve their own safe work habits
  • Inspect scrap for hazardous materials
  • Stage scrap in appropriate storage areas to await inspection
  • Monitor charging equipment
  • Electronically capture weights for maintaining accurate inventory
  • Load scrap containers with correct materials
  • Maintain a consistent and organized flow of material within the facility and communicate with all levels of the organization.

Benefits of joining the SCM Team:

  • Weekly Production and quarterly bonuses
  • Vacation and Sick Pay
  • 401K with company match
  • Health Savings Plan with company match
  • Free on-site health clinic
  • Gym Membership discount
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Advancement opportunities
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance

Apply