ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Wheel Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meuth Concrete

Experienced Wheel Loader Operator

Henderson, KY · On-site

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

Looking for experienced Loader Operator. Operator is responsible to load out semis to small trailers as needed. Will have to calculate tonnage ad adjust on the fly to insure proper weight of outgoing ...

MiconeStaffing

CAT 980 Wheel Loader Operator

Reno, NV · On-site

$24/hr

CAT 980 Wheel Loader Operator Position Overview We are seeking an experienced and safety-focused CAT 980 Wheel Loader Operator to join our operations team. This role is responsible for the safe and ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$24/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

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

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 ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$19 - $24/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

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$24/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 ...

Pick Your Part

Loader Operator

Greensboro, NC

$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 ...

Pick Your Part

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWheel Loader Jobs

Wheel Loader information

See salary details

$11

$19

$28

How much do wheel loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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 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.
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:
What job categories do people searching Wheel Loader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wheel Loader jobs are:
Wheel Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wheel Loader job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,188 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Experienced Wheel Loader Operator

Experienced Wheel Loader Operator

Meuth Concrete

Henderson, KY • On-site

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Looking for experienced Loader Operator.  Operator is responsible to load out semis to small trailers as needed.  Will have to calculate tonnage ad adjust on the fly to insure proper weight of outgoing trucks.  Must be flexible with long work hours and fill in where needed.  Monday thru Friday 10 hr. days and 6 hr. days on Saturday.

Candidate Must:

  • be able to Pass a DOT urine and Hair Follicle test (4 months clean)
  • Current Drivers License
  • have a dependable vehicle to and from work
  • be able to climb up and down on equipment safely
  • be able to perform preshift checks on equipment
  • be able to work with computers and scale program 
  • be able to multitask priorities during the day
  • be able to show up at start of shift and stay the duration of shift
  • be willing to take the job serious and not miss scheduled days

Benefits include:

  • Competitive hourly pay with overtime
  • Traditional 401(k) / Roth 401(k) retirement plans with up to 3% matching
  • Health Insurance with low premiums and free urgent care clinic through Deaconess At-Work
  • Voluntary wellness program
  • Paid holidays and vacation days

Apply