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The differences between excavator operators and loader operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both an excavator operator and a loader operator. Additionally, an excavator operator has an average salary of $46,102, which is higher than the $36,987 average annual salary of a loader operator.
The top three skills for an excavator operator include CDL, OSHA and backhoe. The most important skills for a loader operator are front end loader, asphalt, and customer service.
| Excavator Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $46,102 | $36,987 |
| Hourly rate | $22.16 | $17.78 |
| Growth rate | 4% | 7% |
| Number of jobs | 36,584 | 61,980 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 56% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Average age | 43 | 43 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 4 |
An excavator operator mainly operates heavy construction machinery and equipment such as forklifts and bulldozers. They typically work under the directives of managers or supervisors, adhering to the safety policies and regulations for a safe and efficient workflow. Aside from operating vehicles, they also process documentation, keep records of operations, and maintain the cleanliness of work areas. Furthermore, as an excavator operator, they must perform regular maintenance checks on vehicles and machines, performing basic repairs when needed.
A loader operator is responsible for operating and driving multi-wheeled heavy vehicles to transport goods and services from the distribution centers to various locations. Loader operators must have excellent driving skills and a clean driving record to ensure smooth operations and timely deliveries. They also maintain the stability and efficiency of the engine, conduct regular maintenance, and perform repairs for any inconsistencies to avoid potential hazards and prevent operational delays. A loader operator responds to the customers' inquiries and concerns and escalates their complaints to the management.
Excavator operators and loader operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Excavator Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Average salary | $46,102 | $36,987 |
| Salary range | Between $33,000 And $62,000 | Between $29,000 And $46,000 |
| Highest paying City | Baltimore, MD | Bismarck, ND |
| Highest paying state | Massachusetts | Alaska |
| Best paying company | Roto | Dairy Farmers of America |
| Best paying industry | Energy | Construction |
There are a few differences between an excavator operator and a loader operator in terms of educational background:
| Excavator Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 56% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Most common major | Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between excavator operators' and loader operators' demographics:
| Excavator Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Average age | 43 | 43 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 96.1% Female, 3.9% | Male, 94.1% Female, 5.9% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 9.2% Unknown, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 16.0% Asian, 2.5% White, 67.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.3% | Black or African American, 14.3% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 18.5% Asian, 2.6% White, 59.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9% |
| LGBT Percentage | 2% | 4% |