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The differences between mechanical spreader operators and loader operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 6-12 months to become a mechanical spreader operator, becoming a loader operator takes usually requires 2-4 years. Additionally, a mechanical spreader operator has an average salary of $42,262, which is higher than the $36,987 average annual salary of a loader operator.
The top three skills for a mechanical spreader operator include hand tools, plumbing and preventive maintenance. The most important skills for a loader operator are front end loader, asphalt, and customer service.
| Mechanical Spreader Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $42,262 | $36,987 |
| Hourly rate | $20.32 | $17.78 |
| Growth rate | -7% | 7% |
| Number of jobs | 60,297 | 61,980 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 36% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Average age | 47 | 43 |
| Years of experience | 12 | 4 |
A mechanical spreader operators manage and operate all equipment in various industries where they perform their jobs. The operators work as general mechanics in building HVAC, general building maintenance, and pump station operations. They test electro-mechanical subsystems for operational reliability and circuit integrity. Their job includes promoting quality assurance and performance improvement programs within the organization. Also, they perform an energy audit to improve the efficiency of HVAC energy.
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.
Mechanical spreader operators and loader operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Mechanical Spreader Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Average salary | $42,262 | $36,987 |
| Salary range | Between $30,000 And $58,000 | Between $29,000 And $46,000 |
| Highest paying City | Milwaukee, WI | Bismarck, ND |
| Highest paying state | Idaho | Alaska |
| Best paying company | Baptist Health South Florida | Dairy Farmers of America |
| Best paying industry | Energy | Construction |
There are a few differences between a mechanical spreader operator and a loader operator in terms of educational background:
| Mechanical Spreader Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 36% | High School Diploma, 57% |
| Most common major | Automotive Technology | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between mechanical spreader operators' and loader operators' demographics:
| Mechanical Spreader Operator | Loader Operator | |
| Average age | 47 | 43 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 95.7% Female, 4.3% | Male, 94.1% Female, 5.9% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 7.7% Unknown, 4.5% Hispanic or Latino, 12.5% Asian, 1.8% White, 71.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 2.3% | 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 | 5% | 4% |