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Cat Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Operates heavy mobile equipment i.e., Cat 980 front-end loaders, to blend wood fuel for the boiler ... Responds to abnormal and emergency operating situations in a safe and reasonable manner * Perform ...

... loaders, dozers, excavators, and trucks, into autonomous robots for commercial and defense ... Our technology enables a single operator to supervise and control multiple machines simultaneously ...

... loaders, dozers, excavators, and trucks, into autonomous robots for commercial and defense ... Our technology enables a single operator to supervise and control multiple machines simultaneously ...

Data & Analytics Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$129K - $155K/yr

... and operated business. It's time to use your skills and passion to do work that matters ... Peterson Cat has a need for a Data & Analytics Engineer to work onsite at our San Leandro, CA ...

Data & Analytics Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$129K - $155K/yr

... and operated business.It's time to use your skills and passion to do work that matters ... Peterson Cat has a need for a Data & Analytics Engineer to work onsite at our San Leandro, CA ...

... L templates, persistence libraries, and streaming data pipelines * Develop and extend Scala-based ... designing and operating high-throughput, low-latency distributed systems that process data at ...

Showing results 21-40

Cat Loader Operator information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do cat loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for cat loader operator in California is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a cat loader operator?

A Cat Loader Operator’s day usually involves operating Caterpillar loaders to move, load, or distribute materials such as soil, gravel, or debris at construction or industrial sites. Tasks include conducting equipment inspections, performing minor maintenance, adhering to safety regulations, and following instructions from site supervisors. Operators often work closely with truck drivers, site managers, and other heavy equipment operators to coordinate the smooth flow of materials. The role can involve working outdoors in varying weather conditions and may require flexibility to handle multiple priorities throughout the workday.

What is a cat loader operator?

A Cat Loader Operator is responsible for operating a Caterpillar (Cat) wheel loader to move, load, and transport materials such as dirt, gravel, or other construction and mining materials. They ensure safe and efficient operation of the equipment while following project specifications and safety protocols. Operators may work in construction, mining, quarrying, or other heavy industrial environments. Regular maintenance checks and minor equipment troubleshooting are also part of the job.

Are loader operator jobs in demand?

Loader operator jobs are generally in demand in construction, mining, and logistics industries due to ongoing infrastructure projects and material handling needs. Employment opportunities often require skills in operating heavy machinery and safety certifications, and demand can vary by region and economic conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the cat loader operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cat Loader Operator, you need strong equipment operation abilities, physical stamina, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with Caterpillar machinery, possession of heavy equipment operator certifications, and experience with safety protocols and onboard control systems are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities help ensure safe, efficient material handling and successful collaboration in settings like construction and mining sites.

What are popular job titles related to Cat Loader Operator jobs in California?

For Cat Loader Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cat Loader Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cat Loader Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Cat Loader Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,648 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

$30.72 - $37.86/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 hours ago


DTE Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

DTE is one of the nation's largest diversified energy companies. Our electric and gas companies have fueled our customer's homes and Michigan's progress for more than a century. And as Michigan's largest source of renewable energy, we're creating a cleaner, healthier environment to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated businesses offer renewable energy, emission control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states.  But we're more than a leading energy company... and working at DTE is more than just a job. At DTE, we take great care of each other and our customers, and we use our energy to be a force for growth and prosperity in our communities.  When you join us, you'll be part of a team that welcomes, recognizes, and celebrates differences, and values everyone's health, safety, and wellbeing.  Are you ready to make that kind of difference? Bring your energy to DTE. Together, we can achieve great things.  The pay range for this position is $30.72  -  $37.86.

Job Summary

Location: Stockton, CA

This position's primary responsibility is to provide fuel to the boiler; as well as being responsible for all of the equipment, fuel, and machinery. Work is performed under direct supervision with results reviewed through the achievement of set goals and adherence to policies and procedures. This position reports directly to the Operations Supervisor but will also take daily direction from the on-shift O&M Technician IV.

Key Accountabilities
  • Operates heavy mobile equipment i.e., Cat 980 front-end loaders, to blend wood fuel for the boiler and stacking out for storage
  • Operates fuel conveyors and receiving hoppers
  • Operates scale house and unloads trucks
  • Operates the fuel reclaimer during pile swaps and monitor it during normal operation
  • Services fuel yard equipment daily before shift change and completes shift logs
  • Inspects conveyer systems daily 
  • Works on PM's in yard
  • Assists O&M Tech III and IV as necessary
  • Daily Quality Control
  • Take pile temperatures
  • Complies with all site safety requirements and procedures
  • Identifies safety hazards and takes corrective actions as necessary
  • Communicate well with other company personnel 
  • Responds to abnormal and emergency operating situations in a safe and reasonable manner
  • Perform all other duties as assigned
Minimum Education & Experience Requirements
  • A high school diploma or equivalent
Other Qualifications

Preferred:

  • Experience with mobile heavy equipment, loaders, trucks and welding, and maintenance


Other Requirements:  

  • Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English and perform basic mathematical calculations
  • Background in operating loaders; maintenance; past experience doing shift work
  • Must possess the knowledge and ability to use computers and related technology efficiently
  • Knowledge of plant safety, policies, and procedures, especially in areas such as chemical handling, high-energy systems, confined spaces, incipient fire suppression, first aid, rotating machinery, and heavy equipment
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisor, coworkers, management, and the general public
  • Ability to work scheduled and unscheduled overtime and respond to call-ins when contacted
Physical Demands & Working Conditions

The physical demands characterized here epitomize those that must be met by an employee to properly perform the integral functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. In order to properly perform the integral functions of this job, the employee is required to:

  • Sit, stand, or walk for a minimum of 8-hour shifts, including walking long distances, up and down stairs and on uneven ground 
  • Frequently lift objects of up to 75 pounds in weight and carry objects of up to 35 pounds in weight. Occasionally the employee will have to push or pull objects of up to 70 pounds in weight
  • Frequently climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch or occasionally, crawl
  • Talk & hear; use hands & fingers; handle & feel; and able to reach with hands and arms extensively
  • Frequent operations of controls with occasional driving and fine hand function manipulations of tools and equipment
  • Vision requirements for this position include close vision, color vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus


While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions, including wet and/or humid conditions, and extreme heat and cold. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. Regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and/or machinery and burns. Exposed to protected and unprotected heights, which requires the use of a personal fall protection system (harness/lifeline). Occasionally exposed to vibration and fumes or airborne particles which will require the use of personal protective equipment including respirators; flame retardant clothing; self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), etc. Enter and work in confined space areas.

Additional Information

Incumbents may engage in all or some combination of the activities and accountabilities, and utilize a variety of the competencies cited in this description depending upon the organization and role to which they are assigned. This description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by incumbents in this job. It is not intended as an all-inclusive list of accountabilities or responsibilities, nor is it intended to limit the rights of supervisors or management representatives to assign, direct and control the work of employees under their supervision.


PRIVACY NOTICE TO CALIFORNIA JOB APPLICANTS 
 

At DTE Energy, we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. We seek individuals with a heart for service, a passion to help our communities prosper, and ideas to help shape the future of energy. We are proud to be an equal opportunity, employer that considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, citizenship, height, weight, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal and/or state laws.


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