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What is a loader operator and how to become one
Heavy equipment trucks and industrial transport vehicles are very intimidating. Seeing one up close may lead people to be both amazed and slightly scared at the same time. Things can easily go awry if proper measures are not followed. One such vehicle is the loader. It is a big truck with what looks like a scooper in front of it, used to carry and bring materials from one place to another. Since this is a heavy equipment vehicle, it is important that Loader Operators are properly trained.
Loader operators manage the entire vehicle. They typically work on construction sites. Loader operators should be properly trained since driving and controlling a loader is a big responsibility. Aside from that, they should also be familiar with occupational safety and health regulations and must follow safety protocols at all times. They may also be assigned to do routine maintenance checks on the vehicle to ensure that all parts are working properly.
If you are a licensed operator of heavy equipment, you would surely fit this role. Of course, you have to be meticulous and careful as well.
Avg. Salary $36,987
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth Rate 7%
Growth Rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.86%
Asian 2.64%
Black or African American 14.26%
Hispanic or Latino 18.52%
Unknown 4.46%
White 59.26%
Genderfemale 5.91%
male 94.09%
Age - 44American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 44Stress level is high
7.1 - high
Complexity Level is advanced
7 - challenging
Work Life balance is poor
6.4 - fair
Loader Operator career paths
Key steps to become a loader operator
Explore loader operator education requirements
Start to develop specific loader operator skills
Skills 
Percentages Front End Loader 11.29% Asphalt 9.44% Customer Service 8.07% Loaders 6.52% Hand Tools 4.97% Complete relevant loader operator training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New loader operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a loader operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real loader operator resumes.Research loader operator duties and responsibilities
- Inventory control; FIFO procedures, HAZMAT certify.
- Excavate midstream on load lines for repair backfill and finish
- Dismantle and reassemble heavy equipment using hoists and hand tools.
- Excavate and prepare trenches for plumbing and utilities to residential homes.
Prepare your loader operator resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your loader operator resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a loader operator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose From 10+ Customizable Loader Operator Resume templates
Build a professional Loader Operator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Loader Operator resume.
Apply for loader operator jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a loader operator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How Did You Land Your First Loader Operator Job
Are you a Loader Operator?
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Average loader operator salary
The average Loader Operator salary in the United States is $36,987 per year or $18 per hour. Loader operator salaries range between $29,000 and $46,000 per year.
What Am I Worth?
How do loader operators rate their job?
Loader Operator reviews
Not sure if this is everywhere but where I work it's too hot in the summer to log so we get July and August off with pay. We also get a yearly bonus (around $15-$20k) at the end of the season. The work is hard but I enjoy it.
Young guy's starting out that think they know everything and don't listen to us old guy's that have been doing it for years. The work is hard enough and when you don't listen and take advice from the guy's that have been doing it for years you only make it harder on everyone!
Different challenges to overcome and adapt to get work done
Sitting idle with nothing to do
The power off the equipment the finish grade off the work and being safe
Broke down equipment
Updated January 8, 2025
