1

Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Day Shift Loader Operator

Hockley, TX ยท On-site

$19 - $21.50/hr

Operate loader to transport materials safely and efficiently. * Perform routine maintenance and inspections on equipment. * Load and unload materials as required. * Adhere to all safety protocols and ...

Operator Loader

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Operator Loader Date: Jul 15, 2026 Location: Houston, TX, US, 77045 Job Requisition ID: 61804 ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader * Moves ...

Operator Loader

Rosharon, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Operator Loader Date: Jul 8, 2026 Location: Rosharon, TX, US, 77583 Job Requisition ID: 61708 ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader * Moves ...

Operator Loader

Baytown, TX

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

The Loader Operator must also clean, maintain and secure all equipment as directed policies ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader * Moves ...

Operator Loader

Rosharon, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

The Loader Operator must also clean, maintain and secure all equipment as directed policies ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader * Moves ...

Operator Loader

Baytown, TX ยท On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

The Loader Operator must also clean, maintain and secure all equipment as directed policies ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader * Moves ...

Operator Loader

Rosharon, TX

$16 - $20.75/hr

The Loader Operator must also clean, maintain and secure all equipment as directed policies ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader * Moves ...

Operator Loader

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

The Loader Operator must also clean, maintain and secure all equipment as directed policies ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader * Moves ...

Operator Loader

Houston, TX

$17 - $22.25/hr

The Loader Operator must also clean, maintain and secure all equipment as directed policies ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader * Moves ...

Operator Loader The Loader Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment in a safe and ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader * Moves ...

Operator Loader The Loader Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment in a safe and ... Starts engine, shifts gears, presses pedals, and turns steering wheel to operate loader * Moves ...

... wheel loader and skid steer loader markets-deep understanding of real customer usage scenarios, operator preferences, job-site conditions, and regulatory requirements. - Proven track record of ...

... wheel loader and skid steer loader markets-deep understanding of real customer usage scenarios, operator preferences, job-site conditions, and regulatory requirements. - Proven track record of ...

Equipment Operator

Dayton, TX ยท On-site

$17 - $21/hr

An equipment operator may be assigned to operate a track loader, wheel loader, excavator, or grinder. We expect equipment operators to operate our equipment in a safe and professional manner and to ...

Showing results 21-40

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Houston, TX is $16.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $18.32 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Houston, TX? The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Wheel Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Wheel Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,837 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Loader Operator (Matagorda and surrounding area)

Orion Group Holdings

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
This position is accountable for safely and efficiently operating loaders to move, load, and place construction materials, dirt, gravel, rock, and other aggregates on construction sites. The Loader Operator will work closely with crew members to assist in site preparation, excavation support, material handling, and utility installation projects. The incumbent is responsible for the proper operation, routine inspection, and maintenance of the loader to ensure productivity and safety on the job site.
The incumbent must have the ability and flexibility to work different shifts and long hours (8-12 hours). Weekend work and extra hours occur according to production needs and at the discretion of the Crew Supervisor.
The incumbent must support the guiding beliefs and core values of the Company, which are centered on Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Teamwork (each of equal weight and importance) but, most importantly, with each built upon the all-important foundation of Integrity.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operates loaders to scoop, move, and load materials such as dirt, gravel, rock, sand, and other aggregates.
  • Assists in site preparation, excavation support, and material placement in coordination with project plans and specifications.
  • Performs pre- and post-operation inspections to ensure the loader is in safe and proper working condition.
  • Performs routine maintenance, including fueling, lubricating, cleaning, and minor repairs per manufacturer guidelines.
  • Monitors gauges, controls, and safety indicators during operation to ensure equipment functions properly.
  • Collaborates with crew members and supervisors to ensure safe and efficient material handling.
  • Assists in grading, backfilling, and leveling operations as directed by supervisors or engineers.
  • Adheres to all site safety regulations, traffic control, and utility marking requirements.
  • Maintains equipment and tools to ensure long-lasting use.
  • Reports malfunctioning equipment promptly to supervisors.
  • Performs additional duties as assigned, including assisting pipelayers, general labor, or other equipment operations.
  • All employees, current and former, must maintain confidentiality by not disclosing to others any confidential, proprietary or trade secret information belonging to the Company.
  • Must be willing to work out of town as needed.
EMPLOYEE SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE
  • Responsible and accountable for incumbent's own personal safety.
  • Responsible and accountable for the safety of all co-workers and any other incumbents encountered.
  • Authorized and obligated to stop work on any task or series of tasks whenever an unsafe condition or situation is anticipated or is observed.
  • Complies with all applicable laws, regulations and Company policies and procedures, and is subject to appropriate disciplinary action (including dismissal) for failure to do so.
  • Reports all violations of applicable laws, regulations or Company policies and procedures promptly, and is subject to appropriate disciplinary action (including dismissal) for failure to do so.
  • Performs other duties as may be assigned or requested by immediate supervision (such as certification training, safety training, procedure review, etc.).
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
A minimum of three years of experience operating earth moving equipment is required. An understanding of construction principles and procedures is a must. A high school diploma or GED is preferred. In addition, the incumbent must:
  • Be able to work in constant change in weather and site conditions.
  • Have the ability to read and interpret site plans, grade stakes, and project specifications.
  • Work effectively as part of a team and communicate clearly with supervisors and crew members.
  • Be able to lift, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, and other similar activities as needed.

The Company expects and requires incumbent and each of its other employees to observe and fulfill the above and all other safety responsibilities and actively work toward maintaining a safe workplace. Failure to do so can result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
The incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable workplace accommodation.
The individual must also be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to work or visit within areas where it is required. This includes hard hat, safety glasses, respirators, ear plugs, steel toed shoes, or other protective equipment as required by the work performed and location the work is being done.
This individual must also have the ability to identify critical issues and formulate action plans with all levels of management, including corporate and executive.
The incumbent must possess the ability to remain calm during emergencies and respond appropriately as dictated by the circumstance of the incident and as directed by the Safety Representative or other management personnel. Must be capable of evacuating the work area in a timely manner should an emergency arise.
In addition, the employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.