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Wheel Loader Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Koppers

Loader Operator

Newsoms, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Perform daily maintenance and safety checks on wheel loader * Other work-related duties as required Candidate Qualifications/ Requirements * Experience running heavy machinery * Ability to work ...

Koppers Holdings

Loader Operator

Newsoms, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Perform daily maintenance and safety checks on wheel loader * Other work-related duties as required Candidate Qualifications/ Requirements * Experience running heavy machinery * Ability to work ...

Koppers, Inc.

Loader Operator

Newsoms, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Perform daily maintenance and safety checks on wheel loader * Other work-related duties as required Candidate Qualifications/ Requirements * Experience running heavy machinery * Ability to work ...

Vulcan Materials

Loader Operator

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Pit/Production Loader Operator Build Your Career. Build America's Future. Vulcan Materials Company is the nation's largest producer of construction aggregates and a major producer of aggregates-based ...

Vulcan Materials Company

Loader Operator

Portsmouth, VA

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

The Pit/Production Loader Operator is responsible for efficiently and safely operating a loader to load materials, such as rock, and gravel into haul trucks or feeder. The role requires a skilled ...

Superior Paving Corp.

Loader Operator

Strasburg, VA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Description The Loader Operator ensures the safe loading of materials into trucks and feeder bins. Requirements Key Responsibilities * Move levers to operate and control equipment and computerized ...

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All JobsWheel Loader JobsWheel Loader Jobs in Virginia

Wheel Loader information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do wheel loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader in Virginia is $19.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $22.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

For a Wheel Loader operator, earning $700 a day typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries such as construction, mining, or heavy equipment contracting. These roles often involve long hours, certifications, and operating large machinery in challenging environments. High daily pay is usually associated with unionized positions or freelance/contract work with specialized expertise.

Is a loader operator a good job?

A loader operator is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery like wheel loaders to move materials on construction sites, in quarries, or at industrial facilities. The job typically requires physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and may require certification or training. It can offer steady employment and competitive wages, especially with experience and proper licensing.

What is a wheel loader?

A wheel loader is a type of heavy equipment used primarily in construction, mining, and agriculture for loading materials such as soil, sand, gravel, and debris into trucks or onto other machinery. It features a large front-mounted bucket attached to movable arms, allowing operators to scoop, lift, and transport materials efficiently. Wheel loaders are known for their versatility, maneuverability, and ability to handle a variety of tasks, making them essential on job sites where material handling is required.

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 proven equipment operation skills, a high school diploma or equivalent, and sometimes a relevant heavy machinery certification or CDL. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, onboard diagnostics, and safety protocols is essential, along with experience using GPS or telematics systems. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are valuable soft skills. These skills ensure safe, efficient material handling, minimize workplace accidents, and support productivity on construction or mining sites.

What is the difference between Wheel Loader vs Excavator?

FeatureWheel LoaderExcavator
Primary UseLoading, moving materials on flat surfacesDigging, trenching, lifting
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, quarries, industrial yardsConstruction, demolition, mining sites
Required CertificationsOperator license, safety trainingOperator license, safety training
MobilityHigh mobility on wheelsTracked, less mobile on roads

Wheel Loaders are designed for loading and moving materials quickly on flat surfaces, while Excavators excel at digging and lifting in various terrains. Both require operator licenses and are common in construction and industrial settings, but their functions and mobility differ significantly.

What is the highest paid heavy equipment operator job?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators often work as crane or excavator operators, especially those with specialized skills and certifications. These roles typically command higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved, with salaries varying by industry, experience, and location.

What are some common challenges faced by wheel loader operators on a construction site?

Wheel loader operators often encounter challenges such as working in tight or uneven spaces, managing visibility around large equipment, and coordinating with other team members and machinery to ensure safety and efficiency. They must also adapt to varying load types and weights, which requires a keen understanding of the equipment’s limits. Effective communication with site supervisors and adherence to safety protocols are vital to prevent accidents and maintain productivity.

How to become a wheel loader?

To become a wheel loader operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or a vocational program in heavy equipment operation. Certification from a recognized training organization and familiarity with operating loaders and safety procedures are often required by employers.
What are popular job titles related to Wheel Loader jobs in Virginia? For Wheel Loader jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Wheel Loader jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Wheel Loader jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Wheel Loader jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Wheel Loader job openings:
Wheel Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader job openings in Virginia 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 $40,834 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Loader Operator

Loader Operator

Koppers

Newsoms, VA • On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Koppers rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 92 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Job Responsibilities

Operates loader to move and stack poles and other materials. Accurately loads and unloads poles and other products on and off transportation vehicles. Responsible for processing associated paperwork as directed to ensure the accuracy of incoming and outgoing products. Maintains operation of the loader and is responsible for safe handling and cleanliness of equipment, products, and work area. Loader Operator works closely with all employees and has no supervisory responsibilities

  • Loading and unloading wood poles and other material to/from railcars or trailers
  • Operate all equipment in a safe and appropriate manner
  • Cleans and maintain equipment, and work areas to ensure proper functioning and safe working conditions
  • Handle materials safely to prevent damage and breakage to products.
  • Moving and organizing material within the site to maximize space and efficiency
  • Maintains accurate inventory
  • Reads work orders to build loads for delivery based on customer specifications
  • Works cooperatively with management and co-workers to achieve all safety, quality and production goals set for the work environment
  • Perform daily maintenance and safety checks on wheel loader
  • Other work-related duties as required

Candidate Qualifications/ Requirements

  • Experience running heavy machinery
  • Ability to work overtime
  • Basic math skills (addition, subtractions)
  • Experience working in small teams


Candidate Preferred Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Basic computer skills (scanning, emailing) preferred

Schedule

  • 1st shift
  • 7:00am-4:30PM
  • Overtime
  • Weekends

Koppers Inc. and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other category or characteristic protected by federal law, state, or local law.

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