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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Terral RiverService

Wheeled Loader Operator

Vicksburg, MS · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Wheeled Loader Operator Employment Type: Nonexempt/Hourly Classification: Full Time Position Summary: The Wheeled Loader Operator is responsible for the unloading of various aggregates and other ...

TerralRiver Service

Wheeled Loader Operator

Vicksburg, MS · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Wheeled Loader Operator Employment Type: Nonexempt/Hourly Classification: Full Time Position Summary: The Wheeled Loader Operator is responsible for the unloading of various aggregates and other ...

Terral RiverService

Wheeled Loader Operator

Vicksburg, MS · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Wheeled Loader Operator Employment Type: Nonexempt/Hourly Classification: Full Time Position Summary: The Wheeled Loader Operator is responsible for the unloading of various aggregates and other ...

Apalachee Pole Company, Inc.

Loader Operator

Bristol, FL · On-site

$10.75 - $14.25/hr

Loader Operator Job Type: Full Time The role of the Loader Operator is to be able to proficiently ... Ability to operate an articulating wheel loader with grapple * Understand and follow oral or ...

SA Recycling

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

As a Front-End Loader Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of wheel loaders at a metals recycling center. Duties include loading and moving material and debris ...

SA Recycling

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

As a Front-End Loader Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of wheel loaders at a metals recycling center. Duties include loading and moving material and debris ...

SA Recycling

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

As a Front-End Loader Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of wheel loaders at a metals recycling center. Duties include loading and moving material and debris ...

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.

Loader Operator

Boise, ID · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Key Highlights: • Operate large production wheel loaders to efficiently load rigid-frame haul ... operating procedures, and project safety requirements • Assist with general labor duties as ...

Sandy Oak Materials

Wet Feed Loader

Poteet, TX · On-site

$20/hr

Position Responsibilities Key duties of the Wet Feed Loader Operator include but are not limited to: * Operate wheel loader, excavator, dozer, haul truck, skid loader and screener * Operation and ...

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.

Loader Operator

Boise, ID · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Key Highlights: • Operate large production wheel loaders to efficiently load rigid-frame haul ... operating procedures, and project safety requirements • Assist with general labor duties as ...

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Wheel Loader Operator information

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How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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.

Do you need a license to drive a wheel loader?

Yes, a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or specific equipment operation certification is typically required to operate a wheel loader, depending on state or local regulations. Employers often require operators to complete safety training and demonstrate proficiency before use.

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.

Is a loader operator a good job?

A loader operator is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery like wheel loaders to move materials in construction, mining, or industrial settings. The job typically requires physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and may involve certifications such as OSHA training. It can offer steady employment and competitive wages depending on experience and location.

How to make money with a wheel loader?

A wheel loader operator can make money by working for construction, mining, or agricultural companies, performing tasks such as loading materials, moving earth, or clearing sites. Gaining experience, obtaining relevant certifications, and working in high-demand environments can increase earning potential. Some operators also rent out equipment or start their own contracting business to generate additional income.

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 jobs pay $700 a day?

Wheel loader operators in construction and mining can sometimes earn $700 or more per day, especially with overtime, experience, and specialized skills. High-paying roles often require certifications, operating heavy machinery, and working in demanding environments or during long shifts.
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Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in the United States as of July 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.
Wheeled Loader Operator

Wheeled Loader Operator

Terral RiverService

Vicksburg, MS • On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Title: Wheeled Loader Operator
Employment Type: Nonexempt/Hourly
Classification: Full Time
Position Summary:
The Wheeled Loader Operator is responsible for the unloading of various aggregates and other materials from barge to truck. Must possess skills in organization, time management, communications, and safety awareness. This position reports to the Unloading Operations Manager.
Essential Job Functions:

  • Operates unloading and loading equipment and heavy machinery including material handlers, Skid Steer Loader, Front-End Loader, etc.
  • Routinely consults personnel on machine specifications and safety procedures for specific job tasks to ensure efficient and safe site operations.
  • Conducts routine inspections before operating equipment to identify needed maintenance or repairs.
  • Performs or requests necessary repairs and adjustments to equipment.
  • Communicates and reports on site activities when required.
  • Effectively completes unloading and related tasks.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
Skills and Expertise Desired:
  • Working knowledge of operating heavy machinery.
  • Knowledge of unloading/loading procedures and techniques.
  • Ability to follow instructions and communicate effectively to subordinates.
  • Ability to complete safety awareness training and lead by example.
  • Excellent mechanical and problem-solving skills.
  • Extremely detail oriented and timely when completing reports.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure.
  • Ability to oversee and coordinate a variety of people in different roles.
  • Ability to quickly identify problems and efficiently solve them.
Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • One to two years of related experience desired.
  • Must be able to successfully pass a pre-employment background and drug screening.
Physical Requirements:
  • Able to complete physically demanding work.
  • Able to work in all types of weather as required.
  • Able to lift and carry heavy objects.
  • Good hand-eye-foot coordination and sense of balance.
  • Able to kneel, crouch, or crawl in awkward spaces to repair equipment.

Note:
This job description provides a general overview of the typical responsibilities and qualifications for a Wheeler Loader Operator. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and industry standards.
About Terral RiverService, Inc:
Terral RiverService, Inc. (TRS) is a Family-owned business with a continually growing footprint of boats and barges throughout most of the inland waterway system of the US. We specialize in bulk storage, material handling, river, road and rail logistics along the Mississippi River system, the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, and the inland waterways of Louisiana and southern Arkansas. With our growing fleet of push boats, river barges, and modern dock operations strategically located throughout the Lower Mississippi River Valley, we are outfitted to transport, handle, and store virtually any commodity needed in the marketplace. TRS has over 600 employees and has operations in multiple states.

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