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

Phillips, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pearland, TX · On-site

... load earth into haul trucks. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Learn and follow safety ... met • Adjust hand wheels and depress pedals to control attachments, such as blades, buckets ...

Phillips, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

... load earth into haul trucks. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Learn and follow safety ... met • Adjust hand wheels and depress pedals to control attachments, such as blades, buckets ...

Howmet Aerospace

Saw Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Places saw blade over wheels and resets tension to change blade and adjust tension. * Turns ... Operator forklift and side loader. * Ability to work with external and internal customers.

Howmet Aerospace

Saw Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX

$15.25 - $18/hr

... wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel ... Operator forklift and side loader. * Ability to work with external and internal customers.

Howmet Aerospace

Machine Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Loads and unloads parts onto blast carts. * Cycles blast cart in and out of blast room. * Operates ... wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel ...

Howmet Aerospace

Machine Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

... wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel ... Loads and unloads parts onto blast carts. * Cycles blast cart in and out of blast room. * Operates ...

Howmet

Saw Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Places saw blade over wheels and resets tension to change blade and adjust tension. * Turns ... Operator forklift and side loader. * Ability to work with external and internal customers.

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Houston, TX is $18.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $20.43 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 Houston, TX?

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For Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Wheel Loader Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

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Cities near Houston, TX with the most Wheel Loader Operator job openings:

Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in Houston, TX 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 $37,696 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

C&D Scrap Metal Recyclers

Houston, TX • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Own the yard flow and ensure operations run on time and on target under supervisor direction.

  • Load, unload, and support the metal processing crew by sorting, prepping, and moving materials using heavy equipment.

  • Perform equipment inspections, basic maintenance, and report issues to maintain machinery and ensure safety.

Job description

Benefits:
  • Accident Insurance
  • Hospital Indemnity Insurance
  • Critical Illness Insurance
  • Short Term Disability Insurance
  • Long Term Disability Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Free uniforms
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

 
Heavy Equipment Operator – Make an Impact at C&D Scrap Metal 
Ready to take the wheel in a fast-paced, hands-on role where your skills and grit truly matter? Join a crew that keeps Houston’s metal moving and brings pride to the recycling industry. At C&D Scrap Metal, we don’t just run machines — we run a tight, high-performing operation that values expertise, safety, and professionalism. If you're the kind of operator who knows how to get things DONE, this is your next move. 
???? What You’ll Do 
Be the driving force behind our daily yard operations: 
  • Own the yard flow under Supervisor direction — you’re the one who keeps things running on time and on target.
  • Load and unload materials with precision and confidence using loaders, excavators, crane material handlers, and forklifts.
  • Support the metal processing crew — sort, prep, and help us move materials to the finish line.
  • Put safety first — inspect equipment, gear up with PPE, and report anything that looks off.
  • Keep your machinery humming — perform basic maintenance and alert us to any issues fast.
  • Be a standout with customers — make every drop-off feel smooth, welcoming, and professional.
  • Keep it clean — help us keep the yard organized, safe, and efficient.

???? Schedule & Locations
 
  • Full-time role
  • Occasional travel to satellite locations for operational support

???? Who We’re Looking For
 
You’re not just an equipment operator — you’re a problem-solver, team player, and safety champion.
 
  • At least 2 years operating heavy equipment (loaders, excavators, crane material handlers)
  • Minimum 1 year in industrial or scrap yard environments
  • Strong stamina, hand-eye coordination, and attention to detail
  • Able to thrive independently and work without being micromanaged
  • Committed to doing the job safely, smartly, and professionally
  • Willing to work outdoors, no matter the weather
  • Open to learning new tech and tools — we evolve and so should you

???? Why Join Us
C&D Scrap Metal is a growing force in Houston’s industrial landscape. We promote from within, reward hard work, and operate like a well-oiled machine — with respect, integrity, and teamwork at the core. Here, your skills won’t just be used — they’ll be valued and built upon. Ready to move metal and move your career forward? Apply now and let’s build something great together.