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The differences between lift 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 a lift operator and a loader operator. Additionally, a loader operator has an average salary of $36,987, which is higher than the $32,309 average annual salary of a lift operator.
The top three skills for a lift operator include pallets, fork-lift and electric pallet jack. The most important skills for a loader operator are front end loader, asphalt, and customer service.
| Lift Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $32,309 | $36,987 |
| Hourly rate | $15.53 | $17.78 |
| Growth rate | 7% | 7% |
| Number of jobs | 72,445 | 61,980 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 53% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Average age | 43 | 43 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 4 |
A lift operator is responsible for overseeing the performance of chair lifts in ski resorts and mountains, ensuring the efficiency of the machine and safety of all riders. Aside from controlling operations, they must also assist customers in getting up and off the lifts, remind them of the safety precautions, and ensure that the ride capacity is up to standard. Furthermore, lift operators must make sure that the machine is in good condition and adhere to all the safety regulations and policies at all times.
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.
Lift operators and loader operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Lift Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Average salary | $32,309 | $36,987 |
| Salary range | Between $26,000 And $39,000 | Between $29,000 And $46,000 |
| Highest paying City | Fremont, CA | Bismarck, ND |
| Highest paying state | Alaska | Alaska |
| Best paying company | BD | Dairy Farmers of America |
| Best paying industry | Automotive | Construction |
There are a few differences between a lift operator and a loader operator in terms of educational background:
| Lift Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 53% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between lift operators' and loader operators' demographics:
| Lift Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Average age | 43 | 43 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 89.1% Female, 10.9% | Male, 94.1% Female, 5.9% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 15.4% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 17.0% Asian, 2.6% White, 59.6% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9% | 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 | 4% | 4% |