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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections

Equipment Operator

Manassas, VA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Operating heavy equipment such as: bulldozers, wheel loaders, motor grader, scraper, and compactors. * Performing routine inspection and maintenance on equipment. * Promoting continuous improvement ...

Grove Mobile Ready Mix

Be Seen First

CDL Volumetric Concrete Truck Driver

Powhatan, VA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Load trucks using wheel loader or other equipment. * Adhere to all safety regulations and company ... Familiarity with operating various truck types. * Experience in handling ready mix efficiently ...

Waste Connections

Equipment Operator

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Operating heavy equipment such as: bulldozers, wheel loaders, motor grader, scraper, and compactors. * Performing routine inspection and maintenance on equipment. * Promoting continuous improvement ...

GardenCore

Equipment Operator

Doswell, VA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

... wheel loaders, and all-terrain forklifts, in a rugged 50+ acre outdoor, paved and unpaved ... Operators will use this heavy equipment to move bulk material throughout a manufacturing facility ...

City of Garland Texas

$20.72 - $25.87/hr

Summary Responsible for operating equipment in removing asphalt/concrete pavement, excavating earth ... loaders, utility wheel loaders, compactors, rotary mixers and tractors with 30-yeard end dump ...

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Wheel Loader Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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 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 Virginia?

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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 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,135 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Waste Connections

Manassas, VA • On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 265 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 92 rated recycling and waste

Job description

American Recycling is looking for a safety conscious Heavy Equipment Operator to join the team at our sorting center in Manassas, VA.

Our priority is to make sure we hire safe equipment operators that care about the safety of our team and the service provided to our customers. As a heavy equipment operator with us the minimum responsibilities are:

  • Operating heavy equipment such as: bulldozers, wheel loaders, motor grader, scraper, and compactors.

  • Performing routine inspection and maintenance on equipment.

  • Promoting continuous improvement of workplace safety and environmental practices.

  • Interacting with customers and Waste Connections employees to determine safe and environmentally sound solutions to service issues.

What we need from you:

  • 2+ years’ experience running heavy equipment

  • Knowledge of heavy equipment operation and maintenance.

  • Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.

What you’ll get from us:

  • Competitive Compensation

  • 401(K) with company match; let us help you save for your future

  • Healthcare; Medical, Dental, Vision

  • Perks, perks, perks!  Employee Assistance Mental Health Program, Emergency Travel Assistance, Prepaid Legal Plan, Scholarship Opportunities for kids, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Employee Relief Fund

  • Insurance: Life, Short Term/Long Term Disability

Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.

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