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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Altamont, NY (NOW HIRING)

Port Operator C

Coeymans, NY ยท On-site

$21 - $29/hr

The Port Operator C is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy machinery in a ... Operate a variety of equipment, including wheel loaders, excavators, forklifts, skid steers, haul ...

Equipment Operator

Albany, NY ยท On-site

$21 - $22/hr

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

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

Crane Operator

West Milton, NY ยท On-site

$40.69/hr

This includes operating mobile cranes (wheeled and track type), telehandler, and various capacity ... This includes in depth knowledge of rigging gear such as routine inspections and load tests ...

Crane Operator

West Milton, NY ยท On-site

$40.69/hr

This includes operating mobile cranes (wheeled and track type), telehandler, and various capacity ... This includes in depth knowledge of rigging gear such as routine inspections and load tests ...

Regional CDL A Truck Driver

Albany, NY ยท On-site

$1.8K - $2.0K/wk

Behind the wheel of the dedicated Anheuser-Busch account, you'll run on a fleet built around ... Run dedicated, no-touch Anheuser-Busch freight with drop & hook loads and drop & hook pay, cutting ...

Regional CDL A Truck Driver

Albany, NY ยท On-site

$1.8K - $2.0K/wk

Behind the wheel of the dedicated Anheuser-Busch account, you'll run on a fleet built around ... Run dedicated, no-touch Anheuser-Busch freight with drop & hook loads and drop & hook pay, cutting ...

Regional CDL A Truck Driver

Albany, NY ยท On-site

$1.8K - $2.0K/wk

Behind the wheel of the dedicated Anheuser-Busch account, you'll run on a fleet built around ... Run dedicated, no-touch Anheuser-Busch freight with drop & hook loads and drop & hook pay, cutting ...

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Wheel Loader Operator information

See Altamont, NY salary details

$11

$20

$27

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Altamont, NY is $20.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $22.55 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.

What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Altamont, NY?

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

What cities near Altamont, NY are hiring for Wheel Loader Operator jobs?

Cities near Altamont, NY with the most Wheel Loader Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Altamont, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,614 per year, or $20 per hour.

Port Operator C

Carver Companies Payroll LLC

Coeymans, NY โ€ข On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Position Summary: 

The Port Operator C is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy machinery in a port and terminal environment. This role supports vessel loading and unloading, bulk material handling, and overall yard operations. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, experienced in operating multiple types of equipment, and able to perform effectively in a fast-paced, maritime setting.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Operate heavy equipment to load, unload, and transport bulk materials such as aggregates, scrap, and other cargo.
  • Support vessel operations, including staging, material handling, and coordination with terminal personnel.
  • Operate a variety of equipment, including wheel loaders, excavators, forklifts, skid steers, haul trucks, water trucks, fuel trucks, and sweepers.
  • Transport bulk materials efficiently between docks, yards, and storage facilities.
  • Perform routine pre- and post-operation equipment inspections and report mechanical issues or safety concerns.
  • Maintain clean and organized work areas, including docks, yards, and storage zones.
  • Follow all OSHA, port, and company safety policies and operational procedures.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, crane operators, and ground personnel to coordinate movement and operations.
  • Perform basic equipment maintenance, including fueling, greasing, and fluid checks.
  • Assist with general labor tasks, including cleanup and operational support, as needed.
  • Immediately report any damage to equipment, vessels, vehicles, or property.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned to support safe and efficient operations.

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent preferred.
  • Minimum of 1 year of experience operating heavy equipment in an industrial, construction, or similar environment.
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
  • Demonstrated ability to operate at least two types of heavy equipment (e.g., loader, forklift, excavator).
  • Strong understanding of equipment safety practices and basic maintenance procedures.

Preferred Experience:

  • Prior experience working in a port, terminal, or marine environment.
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) or ability to obtain.
  • Experience with bulk material handling and vessel loading operations.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, climb, and operate equipment for extended periods.
  • Ability to work in outdoor conditions, including exposure to heat, cold, rain, and snow.
  • Required use of PPE (hard hat, safety vest, steel‑toe boots) in operational areas.

Work Environment:

  • Outdoor port and terminal environment with exposure to weather, noise, dust, and heavy machinery.
  • Fast-paced, safety-sensitive setting requiring coordination with marine crews, yard personnel, and equipment operators.
  • Flexible schedule required, including shift work, extended hours, and weekends based on vessel and operational needs.