ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Wheel Loader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Pinehurst, NC · On-site

$23/hr

What you will be doing The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of wheel loaders on heavy civil and highway construction projects. This role supports ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Pinehurst, NC · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

What you will be doing The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of wheel loaders on heavy civil and highway construction projects. This role supports ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Pinehurst, NC · On-site

$23/hr

What you will be doing The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of wheel loaders on heavy civil and highway construction projects. This role supports ...

S M Hentges and Sons, Inc.

Loader Operator

Jordan, MN · On-site

$28.95 - $46.11/hr

The Loader Operator is responsible for operating a wheel loader safely and efficiently to move materials, assist in trenching, and support the pipe crew in the installation of underground utilities ...

Bridges Staffing

Loader Operator

Summerville, SC · On-site

$22/hr

Loader Operator Come join this amazing Employee-Owned Construction Company! The Loader Operator is ... Ability to operate a wheel loader safely around a pipe crew. * Daily maintenance of equipment to ...

S M Hentges and Sons, Inc.

Loader Operator

Jordan, MN · On-site

The Loader Operator is responsible for operating a wheel loader safely and efficiently to move materials, assist in trenching, and support the pipe crew in the installation of underground utilities ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsWheel Loader Operator Jobs

Wheel Loader Operator information

See salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader operator in the United States is $18.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $21.39 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 wheel loader operators?

Wheel loader operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery known as wheel loaders, which are used to move materials such as soil, gravel, sand, and debris on construction sites, quarries, and other industrial locations. Their responsibilities include loading and unloading materials, transporting them to designated areas, and maintaining the equipment to ensure safe operation. Operators must be attentive to safety protocols and often require specialized training or certification. They play a vital role in keeping construction and material-handling operations efficient and safe.

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.
More about Wheel Loader Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Wheel Loader Operator jobs? Cities with the most Wheel Loader Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs? The most popular types of Wheel Loader Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Wheel Loader Operator jobs? The top employers for Wheel Loader Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Wheel Loader Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Wheel Loader Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Wheel Loader Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wheel Loader Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader Operator jobs? For Wheel Loader Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,474 per year, or $19 per hour.
Loader Operator

Loader Operator

Flatiron Construction Corp

Pinehurst, NC • On-site

$23/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview

Thank you for your interest in FlatironDragados! Please make sure you visit our US Open Office.

Employment applications will be available at the front and a drop box will be available in the lobby for you to submit your application.  Our office is located at 2656 NC-5, Aberdeen, NC 28315. We look forward to reviewing your application!

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. 

What you will be doing

The Wheel Loader Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of wheel loaders on heavy civil and highway construction projects. This role supports earthwork, grading, paving, utilities, and material handling operations while maintaining productivity, safety, and equipment integrity in accordance with company standards.

  • Operate wheel loaders to load, transport, and stockpile materials such as aggregate, asphalt, soil, concrete, and debris
  • Support grading, excavation, embankment, backfill, and paving operations
  • Maintain safe working distances from personnel, traffic, and other equipment
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and complete required documentation
  • Identify and report mechanical issues or maintenance needs promptly
  • Ensure proper material handling methods
  • Communicate effectively with foremen, supervisors, truck drivers, and ground personnel
  • Cleans and maintains equipment, making basic repairs as necessary.
  • Moves levers, pushes pedals, or turn valves to control equipment. Drives and maneuver equipment.
  • Coordinates machine actions with crew members using hand or audio signals.
  • Maintains knowledge of Company's values and strategic plan.
  • Performs additional assignments per management's direction.
What we are looking for
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Experience with construction equipment preferred.
  • Knowledge of equipment operation, load limits, and stability principles
Why work for us

Some of the benefits you may be eligible for as an employee are:

  • Comprehensive compensation package and paid time off program
  • Industry leading 401(k)/RRSP
  • Medical/Extended Health Care, Dental, Vision and/or Provincial Medical
  • Wellness benefits & Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

We are an EEO/ADA/Veterans employer.

Salary MinUSD $18.00/Hr.Salary MaxUSD $23.00/Hr.Employment Type: OTHER

Apply