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The differences between loaders and loader operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a loader operator has an average salary of $36,987, which is higher than the $32,820 average annual salary of a loader.
The top three skills for a loader include customer service, pallets and loaders. The most important skills for a loader operator are front end loader, asphalt, and customer service.
| Loader | Loader Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $32,820 | $36,987 |
| Hourly rate | $15.78 | $17.78 |
| Growth rate | 6% | 7% |
| Number of jobs | 40,008 | 61,980 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 56% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Average age | 41 | 43 |
| Years of experience | - | 4 |
The responsibilities of a loader will vary in an industry or organization. In a warehouse or retail setting, a loader is responsible for loading and unloading packages, ensuring the accuracy of all goods and invoices. Most of the tasks will involve physical work, and there are also instances when one needs to operate machines such as a forklift. Moreover, a loader must also keep records and monitor the inventory at all times and coordinate with supervisors, all in adherence to the company's policies and safety regulations.
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.
Loaders and loader operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Loader | Loader Operator | |
| Average salary | $32,820 | $36,987 |
| Salary range | Between $27,000 And $39,000 | Between $29,000 And $46,000 |
| Highest paying City | Seattle, WA | Bismarck, ND |
| Highest paying state | Alaska | Alaska |
| Best paying company | Kemps | Dairy Farmers of America |
| Best paying industry | Manufacturing | Construction |
There are a few differences between a loader and a loader operator in terms of educational background:
| Loader | Loader Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 56% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between loaders' and loader operators' demographics:
| Loader | Loader Operator | |
| Average age | 41 | 43 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 87.6% Female, 12.4% | Male, 94.1% Female, 5.9% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 10.9% Unknown, 3.8% Hispanic or Latino, 16.1% Asian, 4.4% White, 63.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.6% | 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 | 3% | 4% |