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Wheel Loader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

SA Recycling

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH

$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 ...

CGB Enterprises

Wheel Loader/Terminal Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

This position carries a variety of responsibilities, which includes operating a front-end loader to load trucks with granular fertilizer and conducting various maintenance/housekeeping jobs as ...

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 ...

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 ...

Sandy Oak Materials

Wet Feed Loader

Poteet, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18/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 ...

Turner Mining Group

Loader Operator

Charles Town, WV · On-site

CAT 930 Rubber-Tire Loaders & CAT 963 Track Loaders Keep the Jobsite Moving - Master Wheels & Tracks! Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator who knows how to keep production rolling? We are ...

Turner Mining Group

Loader Operator

Charles Town, WV · On-site

CAT 930 Rubber-Tire Loaders & CAT 963 Track Loaders Keep the Jobsite Moving Master Wheels & Tracks! Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator who knows how to keep production rolling? We are hiring ...

Turner Mining Group

Loader Operator

Front Royal, VA

CAT 930 Rubber-Tire Loaders & CAT 963 Track Loaders Keep the Jobsite Moving - Master Wheels & Tracks! Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator who knows how to keep production rolling? We are ...

Turner Mining Group

Loader Operator

Front Royal, VA · On-site

CAT 930 Rubber-Tire Loaders & CAT 963 Track Loaders Keep the Jobsite Moving - Master Wheels & Tracks! Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator who knows how to keep production rolling? We are ...

Turner Mining Group

Loader Operator

Charles Town, WV · On-site

CAT 930 Rubber-Tire Loaders & CAT 963 Track Loaders Keep the Jobsite Moving - Master Wheels & Tracks! Are you a skilled heavy equipment operator who knows how to keep production rolling? We are ...

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Wheel Loader Operator information

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$10

$18

$25

How much do wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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 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.
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Wheel Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,474 per year, or $19 per hour.

Wheeled Loader Operator

Terral River Service Inc

Vicksburg, MS

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

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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