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Bobcat Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

SunCoke Energy

Utility Operator

East Chicago, IN

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ... Tools & Equipment: Front-end loader, Bobcat, Dump truck, Forklift, Cherry picker, various handtools ...

SunCoke Energy

Utility Operator

East Chicago, IN · On-site

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ... Tools & Equipment: Front-end loader, Bobcat, Dump truck, Forklift, Cherry picker, various handtools ...

Midwest Salt

Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24 - $29.50/hr

Wheel Bobcat * Material loader * Pneumatic and other hoppers * Blending system * Conveyors * Field unloader * Sennebogen material handlers What You Need High school diploma or equivalent 2+ years ...

New

ROUTE 12 RENTAL

Be Seen First

Automotive mechanic plus

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

... bobcat, wood chippers, and stump grinders. Job will include documenting and performing PM on all ... Company Description Route 12 Rental is family owned and operated and was established in 1964. We ...

Integrity Trade Services LLC

Outside Loader

Portage, IN · On-site

$18/hr

Capable of operating Pay Loader, Bobcat and Manlift. * Promote good customer relations through meeting customer requirements in handling their product(s). Qualifications * Ability to stand, walk ...

Integrity Trade Services

Outside Loader

Portage, IN · On-site

$18/hr

Capable of operating Pay Loader, Bobcat and Manlift. * Promote good customer relations through meeting customer requirements in handling their product(s). Qualifications * Ability to stand, walk ...

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All JobsBobcat Operator JobsBobcat Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Bobcat Operator information

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How much do bobcat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for bobcat operator in Chicago, IL is $20.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bobcat operator?

A Bobcat Operator is responsible for operating Bobcat-brand skid steer loaders and other compact equipment to move materials, excavate, and perform site preparations. They work in construction, landscaping, agriculture, and other industries requiring heavy machinery. Operators must understand equipment controls, follow safety procedures, and conduct routine maintenance checks. Experience in heavy equipment operation and a strong awareness of safety regulations are typically required for this role.

What does a bobcat operator do?

A typical day for a Bobcat Operator involves inspecting and maintaining the equipment, maneuvering the Bobcat to move materials, clear debris, or prepare construction sites, and performing tasks based on project requirements. You'll often collaborate closely with site supervisors, laborers, and other machinery operators to ensure the workflow is smooth and timelines are met. The role typically involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and can require early starts or overtime, depending on project deadlines. Clear communication and adaptability are key, as priorities on the job site can frequently change throughout the day.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a bobcat operator?

To thrive as a Bobcat Operator, you need experience with operating skid-steer loaders, knowledge of construction site safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with different Bobcat attachments, maintenance procedures, and often OSHA or equipment operator certifications are important technical qualifications. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team are essential soft skills. These qualities ensure safe and efficient equipment operation, reduce workplace accidents, and contribute to successful project completion.

What does a Bobcat Operator make?

A Bobcat Operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the work. Salaries can also vary based on certifications, union membership, and whether the job is seasonal or full-time.

What are popular job titles related to Bobcat Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Bobcat Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Bobcat Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bobcat Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,030 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Industrial Machine Maintenance and Operation

K & S Tire Recycling, Inc.

Chicago Heights, IL • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

K&S Tire Recycling is seeking an experienced, mechanically skilled Industrial Maintenance Technician / Equipment Operator to maintain and operate heavy-duty tire recycling equipment.
This is a hands-on position for someone who understands industrial machinery and is comfortable getting into the equipment, identifying problems, replacing wear components, making adjustments, and keeping a production line running.
Our equipment includes industrial tire shredders, steel liberation equipment, conveyors, screens, magnets, material-handling systems, and Bobcat/skid-steer equipment.
This is not simply a machine operator position. We are looking for someone with strong mechanical aptitude who can operate equipment while also helping maintain and troubleshoot it.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Operate and maintain industrial tire shredding and recycling equipment
  • Perform preventive and routine maintenance on tire shredders, steel liberation equipment, conveyors, screens, magnets, and related processing equipment
  • Inspect machinery regularly for wear, damage, unusual vibration, heat, noise, leaks, or other signs of mechanical problems
  • Identify mechanical problems before they result in major equipment failures
  • Troubleshoot equipment breakdowns and production issues
  • Assist with equipment repairs and return machinery to service safely and efficiently
  • Remove, replace, adjust, and maintain shredder knives, cutters, screens, wear plates, bearings, shafts, belts, chains, sprockets, rollers, and other mechanical components
  • Inspect shredder knives and cutting components for wear and damage
  • Assist with knife changes, rotations, adjustments, and proper installation
  • Maintain proper clearances, alignment, tension, and adjustment of equipment components
  • Clear jams and material blockages using proper safety and lockout/tagout procedures
  • Lubricate bearings and other components according to maintenance requirements
  • Inspect conveyors, belts, rollers, bearings, motors, and drive components
  • Perform routine preventive maintenance and document completed work
  • Maintain tools, replacement parts, and maintenance work areas
  • Communicate equipment problems and needed repairs to management
  • Assist outside technicians and equipment manufacturers when necessary
  • Maintain a clean and safe production and maintenance area
Equipment Operation
The employee will also be responsible for operating material-handling equipment as part of daily production.
Responsibilities include:
  • Operate a Bobcat/skid steer
  • Load tires and other materials into processing equipment
  • Move processed and unprocessed material throughout the facility
  • Load and unload material
  • Maintain proper material flow to production equipment
  • Keep production and storage areas organized
  • Perform basic daily inspections of the Bobcat/skid steer before operation

Previous skid-steer/Bobcat operating experience is required or strongly preferred.
Mechanical Skills
Candidates should have experience with some or all of the following:
  • Industrial machinery
  • Shredders or grinders
  • Conveyors
  • Bearings and shafts
  • Motors and gearboxes
  • Belts and chains
  • Sprockets and pulleys
  • Hydraulic systems
  • Pneumatic systems
  • Lubrication systems
  • Cutting knives and wear components
  • Preventive maintenance
  • Mechanical troubleshooting
  • Hand and power tools
  • Impact tools
  • Torque wrenches
  • Grease systems
  • Basic welding and fabrication

Requirements
Experience working with tire shredders, recycling equipment, crushers, grinders, aggregate equipment, scrap-processing equipment, heavy manufacturing equipment, or similar machinery is highly desirable.
This is a physically demanding industrial position.
Candidates must be able to:
  • Lift and handle up to 50 lbs.
  • Stand and walk for extended periods
  • Bend, kneel, climb, reach, push, and pull
  • Use hand and power tools
  • Work around industrial machinery
  • Work indoors and outdoors
  • Work in varying temperatures and conditions
  • Perform maintenance work that may require working in tight or difficult-to-access areas
  • Safely perform repetitive physical tasks
Qualifications
Preferred candidates will have:
  • Previous industrial maintenance or mechanical experience
  • Experience maintaining production or recycling equipment
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Experience operating a Bobcat/skid steer
  • Ability to identify mechanical problems and troubleshoot equipment
  • Experience replacing bearings, belts, chains, knives, screens, or other wear components
  • Basic welding/fabrication experience is a plus
  • Basic electrical troubleshooting experience is a plus
  • Ability to safely use hand, pneumatic, and power tools
  • Understanding of preventive maintenance
  • Knowledge of Lockout/Tagout procedures
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a production team

Benefits
Why Work With K&S Tire Recycling?
K&S Tire Recycling is a growing tire recycling company serving customers throughout the Midwest. Our operation keeps millions of pounds of tires and recyclable materials out of landfills and puts those materials back to productive use.
We value employees who are reliable, safety-conscious, hardworking, and willing to learn.
We offer accrued paid time off (40 hours per year starting after probation period)
We have 1st and 2nd shift positions available.
Compensation is $18-$20 per Hour USD

Apply