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Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Columbus, OH

... loader and other equipment using proper safety standards. • Continuously monitor the condition of ... wheels on equipment. • Perform and document minor service on equipment, referring more ...

Packaging Operator

Mount Vernon, OH

$14.25 - $17/hr

... Operator I role is an entry level production role at the Mt. Vernon facility assisting the ... Spotting out-bound trucks into material load docks, ensuring dock-locks * Reclaiming off-quality ...

Packaging Operator

Mount Vernon, OH · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

... Operator I role is an entry level production role at the Mt. Vernon facility assisting the ... Spotting out-bound trucks into material load docks, ensuring dock-locks * Reclaiming off-quality ...

This role is ideal for individuals looking for entry-level to experienced manufacturing jobs in a ... Load materials and make basic machine adjustments as needed * Inspect finished products for ...

Machine Operator

Johnstown, OH · On-site

$21.05/hr

This role is ideal for individuals looking for entry-level to experienced manufacturing jobs in a ... Load materials and make basic machine adjustments as needed * Inspect finished products for ...

Mechanic

Newark, OH · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Transportation Operator (Truck Driver) - U.S. Army (Entry-Level, No Experience Needed) Full-time | ... Operate Army trucks and wheeled vehicles across road and off-road conditions. * Load, secure, and ...

Truck Driver

Columbus, OH · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Transportation Operator (Truck Driver) - U.S. Army (Entry-Level, No Experience Needed) Full-time | ... Operate Army trucks and wheeled vehicles across road and off-road conditions. * Load, secure, and ...

Mechanic

Canal Winchester, OH · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Transportation Operator (Truck Driver) - U.S. Army (Entry-Level, No Experience Needed). Full-time | ... Operate Army trucks and wheeled vehicles across road and off-road conditions. * Load, secure, and ...

The Driver, Trainee Non-CDL is an entry level driver training role. Associates in this role will ... Inspects trailer for properly loaded and secured freight. Performs count check of items and check ...

The Driver, Trainee Non-CDL is an entry level driver training role. Associates in this role will ... Inspects trailer for properly loaded and secured freight. Performs count check of items and check ...

The Driver, Trainee Non-CDL is an entry level driver training role. Associates in this role will ... Inspects trailer for properly loaded and secured freight. Performs count check of items and check ...

The Driver, Trainee Non-CDL is an entry level driver training role. Associates in this role will ... Inspects trailer for properly loaded and secured freight. Performs count check of items and check ...

The Driver, Trainee Non-CDL is an entry level driver training role. Associates in this role will ... Inspects trailer for properly loaded and secured freight. Performs count check of items and check ...

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Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do entry level wheel loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level wheel loader operator in Columbus, OH is $18.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do loader operators make a year?

Entry level wheel loader operators typically earn between $35,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. With additional certifications and skills, such as operating different machinery or working in specialized environments, wages can increase.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Entry level wheel loader operator roles typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are usually associated with highly experienced or specialized positions, often in construction, mining, or heavy equipment contracting. These roles may require certifications, extensive experience, or working in remote or high-demand environments, and pay can vary based on project scope and location.

Do you have to be certified to run a loader?

Entry level wheel loader operators typically do not need formal certification to operate loaders, but many employers prefer or require OSHA-compliant training and a valid driver's license. Certification may be required for certain specialized or commercial roles, and safety training is essential for all operators. Regulations can vary by state or company policies.

Can you be a machine operator with no experience?

Entry level wheel loader operator positions often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may need to complete on-the-job training or certification programs. Having basic knowledge of safety procedures and equipment operation can improve job prospects, but employers often provide training for new operators.

What is the difference between Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectEntry Level Wheel Loader OperatorEquipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, material handlingConstruction, industrial, mining, and transportation settings
Job DutiesOperate wheel loaders for loading, moving materialsOperate various heavy machinery including loaders, excavators

Both roles require safety certifications and involve working in construction or industrial environments. The main difference is that an Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator specializes in operating wheel loaders specifically, while an Equipment Operator may handle a variety of heavy machinery. The choice depends on the specific equipment and tasks involved in the job.

What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator job openings:

Heavy Equipment Operator

swaco

Columbus, OH

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) serves Franklin County and neighboring areas with solutions for solid waste. SWACO provides consumers recycling opportunities around Franklin County at our recycling drop off-locations. Our Heavy Equipment Operator performs all duties such as solid waste placement, daily and intermediate cover, excavation and dirt hauling, traffic control, spotting trucks for dumping. 
 

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

•Perform pre- and post-operation inspection of the equipment in accordance with Company policy to ensure windows, lights, mirrors and rear-view camera are clean. Safely and efficiently operate equipment that may include rolling compactor, excavator, bulldozer, front-end loader and other equipment using proper safety standards.

•Continuously monitor the condition of the equipment to ensure it is always operationally ready to minimize down time, clean tracks or wheels on equipment.

•Perform and document minor service on equipment, referring more complicated mechanical issues to Maintenance Shop for repair.

•Complete Equipment Condition Report and other reports, as necessary; report any necessary repairs to supervisor.

•Follow all required safety policies and procedures and ensure that shop is clean, serviced and stored at the completion of each shift.
 

Rewarding Compensation and Benefits

•Comprehensive medical benefits coverage, dental plans and vision coverage (Traditional PPO with low Benefits).

•Short- and long-term disability.

•Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment insurance.

•OPERS-State Retirement Pension-Company match 14%

•Paid Holidays

•Personal, sick and vacation days

•Tuition reimbursement

•Employee Assistance Program

•Thrive On wellness Program 

•Company purchased PPE 

•Paid lunch times 

•On Job Training 
 

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Experience operating light/medium/heavy equipment such as water and sweeper trucks; roll-off trucks; backhoes; articulated trucks; rolling compactors; bulldozers. 
  • Experience working at a landfill is preferred.
  • Valid Ohio Driver's License required.
  • Valid Ohio Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License is preferred.  Valid Department of Transportation Medical Card also required if possess a commercial license. 

Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio is an equal opportunity employer. 

   #zr

The above statements are intended to describe essential functions and related requirements of person(s) assigned to this job.  They are not intended as an exhaustive list of all job duties, responsibilities, and requirements.