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Wheel Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Webber - Wheel Loader Operator - Paving

Houston, TX · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Foreman Operates a rubber-tired, skid steer, or crawler type tractor with an attached scoop type bucket on front end. Machine is used to load materials from stockpiles, excavation, charging batch ...

Webber - Wheel Loader Operator - Paving

Houston, TX · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Foreman Operates a rubber-tired, skid steer, or crawler type tractor with an attached scoop type bucket on front end. Machine is used to load materials from stockpiles, excavation, charging batch ...

Loader Operator

Clearwater, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

North Charleston, SC · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

North Charleston, SC · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $18.25/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

Oklahoma City, OK

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

Loader Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check fluids each day equipment is used and lubricate equipment at recommended intervals. Communicate any ...

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Wheel Loader information

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$19

$28

How much do wheel loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for wheel loader in the United States is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How much do loader operators make?

Loader operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. In some regions, experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages, especially if working overtime or in specialized environments such as construction or mining. Wages may also vary based on union membership and the complexity of the equipment operated.

Can you make 100k as a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators, including those who operate wheel loaders, can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or regions. Factors such as certifications, overtime, and union membership can also influence earning potential.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Wheel loader operators in specialized industries or high-demand construction projects can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and overtime. Such high daily wages are typically associated with unionized roles, hazardous environments, or project-based work in large-scale construction or mining operations.

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 much does a loader get paid?

The average salary for a wheel loader operator in the United States ranges from $15 to $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages, and some may receive benefits such as overtime pay and health insurance.
More about Wheel Loader jobs
What cities are hiring for Wheel Loader jobs? Cities with the most Wheel Loader job openings:
What states have the most Wheel Loader jobs? States with the most job openings for Wheel Loader jobs include:
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% Full Time, 72% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $41,188 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Loader Operator

$23/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 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