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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Lexington, KY (NOW HIRING)

Rumpke

Heavy Equipment Operator

Irvine, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... loaders, wheel loaders, off road dump trucks, and other equipment as required * Conduct pre-trip ... Operating the yard tractor on site to move and stage trailers as needed based on locations

Aerotek

Production Operator

Paris, KY · On-site

$19.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Production Operator The Production Operator works within the Production Department as a Material ... Off-load deliveries of tires, wheels, and other raw materials. * Inspect tires, wheels, other parts ...

STAFFWORKS GROUP

Operators-2nd Shift

Paris, KY · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Load, unload, and inspect automotive wheel components * Perform routine quality checks to ensure products meet specifications * Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of safety hazards * Follow ...

Tipco Transportation

CDL-A Vehicle Operator

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$1.4K - $1.8K/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Your expertise behind the wheel is the backbone of our operation, and we provide the support and ... Secure and manage cargo according to established load securement standards. * Maintain accurate ...

Guardian Fleet

Light Duty Driver

Lexington, KY · On-site

$16.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our drivers are more than operators behind the wheel-they are the face of the organization, the ... Load, secure, and transport vehicles in accordance with company and DOT safety standards. * Conduct ...

Guardian Fleet Services

Light Duty Driver

Lexington, KY · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our drivers are more than operators behind the wheel-they are the face of the organization, the ... Load, secure, and transport vehicles in accordance with company and DOT safety standards. * Conduct ...

Guardian Fleet Services

Light Duty Driver

Lexington, KY · On-site

$18.50 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our drivers are more than operators behind the wheel-they are the face of the organization, the ... Load, secure, and transport vehicles in accordance with company and DOT safety standards. * Conduct ...

Topy America

Material Handler- CDL (Yard Driver)

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$23.93 - $28.51/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

TOPY America Inc. is a world class manufacturer of steel wheels for a variety of automotive ... for safely and efficiently operating a forklift to move, load, unload, and stack materials.

Topy America

Material Handler- CDL (Yard Driver)

Frankfort, KY · On-site

$23.93 - $28.51/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

TOPY America Inc. is a world class manufacturer of steel wheels for a variety of automotive ... for safely and efficiently operating a forklift to move, load, unload, and stack materials.

Core-Mark

CDL-A Shuttle Driver Nights

Mount Eden, KY · On-site

$1.3K/wk

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Shuttle loaded and empty trailers between facilities * Drop & hook freight (minimal touch) * Follow ... the Operating Company warehouse locations and turn around and deliver full trailers to domicile ...

Guardian Fleet Services

Light Duty Driver

Lexington, KY

$16 - $21.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our drivers are more than operators behind the wheel--they are the face of the organization, the ... Load, secure, and transport vehicles in accordance with company and DOT safety standards. * Conduct ...

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All JobsWheel Loader Operator JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs in Lexington, KY

Wheel Loader Operator information

See Lexington, KY salary details

$9

$16

$22

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in Lexington, KY is $16.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $18.70 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 Lexington, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,488 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Automotive Recycling Production Operator

Road Tested Parts LLC

Lexington, KY • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description


About the Role:

As an Automotive Recycling Production Operator in our vehicle recycling facility, you will play a key role in many aspects of the dismantling, sorting, and processing of end-of-life vehicles. This hands-on position involves working with a team to safely remove parts, drain fluids, and prepare materials for recycling and retail sales. The ideal candidate is reliable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, outdoor environment. No prior experience required, just the willingness to learn. The role requires a strong work ethic and the ability to follow instructions accurately to meet deadlines.

Production Operators function in one of the following processes and may rotate between processes as needed:

  • Vehicle processing (draining fluids, converter removal, & preparation for field)
  • Field Setting (Inventory, setting wheel stands safely, clean-up of trash and cores)
  • Equipment operators (trained on all heavy equipment)
  • Tire Dismantler
  • Crushing (dismantling and crushing vehicles)

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Ability to lift heavy objects and perform physically demanding tasks in all weather (outside environment).
  • Basic understanding of safety practices in an automotive, and recycling environment.
  • Valid operator's license and certification for forklifts and heavy machinery.
  • Proven experience operating forklifts, loaders or similar heavy equipment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Forklift use and Certification
  • Previous experience in a labor-intensive role or construction environment.
  • Familiarity with basic hand tools and power tools.
  • Certification in safety training or first aid.
  • Experience in construction or logistics industries.
  • Knowledge of safety regulations and best practices in equipment operation.

Responsibilities:

· Assist in the setup and cleanup of job sites, ensuring that all materials and tools are organized and accessible.

· Perform physical tasks such as lifting, carrying, and moving materials to support production tasks.

· Follow safety protocols and maintain a clean and safe work environment to prevent accidents and injuries.

· Operate basic hand tools and power tools under the supervision of experienced workers.

· Communicate effectively with team members to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and on schedule.

· Removal of all fluids, batteries, and other material from the vehicle for environmental and resale reasons.

· Handle vehicles and parts with care

· Operate wheel loaders, excavators, bobcats, and forklifts to move materials throughout the facility.

· Load and unload shipments, ensuring that products are handled safely and efficiently.

· Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of equipment to ensure safe operation.


Skills:

The required skills for an Automotive Recycling Production Operator include physical stamina and strength, which are essential for performing demanding tasks such as lifting and moving materials. Also operating a variety of heavy equipment in a safe manner while handling inventory with care. Attention to detail is crucial for following safety protocols and ensuring that the work environment remains organized and hazard-free. Communication skills are important for collaborating with team members and supervisors to coordinate activities, as the role involves working closely with a team and following instructions from supervisors. Problem-solving skills may be utilized when addressing equipment malfunctions or unexpected challenges on-site.

Preferred skills, such as familiarity with tools, enhance the ability to assist skilled tradespeople effectively. Overall, these skills contribute to a collaborative and efficient work environment, ultimately leading to successful project completion. Knowledge of safety regulations, enhance the Loader Operator's ability to maintain a safe work environment and contribute to overall project success.