To work as a loader operator, you must have completed high school or passed a general education development (GED) test. Although it is not always necessary, most employers will insist on seeing a diploma or certificate before hiring you. To operate a specific type of loader, you will typically need to earn a certification, though the requirements vary by region. You may need up to 30 hours of experience using a loader before you can apply for the classes, depending on where you live and the company you earn a certification from. Before you can become a loader operator, you will most likely need to go to work for a company that uses loaders, work for them in another capacity, and then earn a certification.
Because there are so many different types of loaders and attachments, loader operators perform a wide range of tasks. You could work as a skilled loader operator in a factory, warehouse, construction site, or a variety of other settings. You’ll need good hand-eye coordination, awareness of your surroundings, and a willingness to work with heavy machinery.
The first step toward becoming a loader operator is to complete high school or obtain a GED. While some employers will hire you without a diploma, having one makes it much easier to find work. After that, you’ll need to work for a company that employs loaders. In most cases, you’ll have to start out in a different position, usually doing some sort of manual labor. If you show an interest in operating a loader and work hard, you might be able to pick up a few shifts using one of these machines under the supervision of a more experienced worker.
Before becoming a loader operator, some jurisdictions and companies do not require certification. If this is the case, gaining on-the-job experience alone will suffice. However, certification is sometimes required, in which case you’ll need to find out what the procedure is in your area. Before you can apply for classes, you may need to have a certain number of hours working on a loader logged, and you will usually need to decide whether you want a certification on a skid steer loader, backhoe, front end loader, or another type. After obtaining your certification, you should be able to work as a loader operator.