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Cat Loader Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Hamtramck Recycling

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Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavator / Loader / Skid Steer)

Hamtramck, MI · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Experience operating CAT, CASE, Volvo, or Bobcat equipment * Knowledge of compactor operations and load balancing * Familiarity with recycling material types and contamination prevention Education

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Cat Loader Operator information

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$10

$19

$28

How much do cat loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for cat loader operator in Detroit, MI is $19.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Cat Loader Operator job?

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.

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 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 do I need to be a loader operator?

To become a loader operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and experience operating heavy machinery such as loaders or excavators. Certification or training in equipment operation and safety procedures is often required, along with good physical fitness and the ability to work in outdoor environments and adhere to safety standards.
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Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavator / Loader / Skid Steer)

Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavator / Loader / Skid Steer)

Hamtramck Recycling

Hamtramck, MI • On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

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Job description

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavator / Loader / Skid Steer)
Location: Hamtramck Recycling – 3333 Hamtramck Dr, Hamtramck MI 48211
Job Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Yard Supervisor / Operations Manager

Job Summary

Hamtramck Recycling & Transfer Station is seeking a skilled, safety-focused Heavy Equipment Operator to support day-to-day operations. In this role, you will operate loaders, skid steers, and other machinery to manage the flow of recyclable materials, load compactors, and help maintain a clean and efficient transfer station and recycling yard. This includes conducting pre- and post-operation checks, identifying and reporting equipment issues, and supporting safe and organized truck traffic throughout the facility.

Key Responsibilities

  • Equipment Operation: Operate heavy equipment such as front-end loaders, skid steers, and forklifts to move, stack, and load materials including plastics, cardboard, metals, construction, and cleanout debris.

  • Loading Compactors & Trailers: Efficiently load materials into compactors and transfer trailers. Monitor compactor performance and communicate with dispatch when loads are ready for transport.

  • Transfer Station Support: Keep tipping floors and loading areas clear of obstructions. Constantly manage the material flow to ensure a safe and efficient transfer of waste and recyclables.

  • Pre- and Post-Checks: Perform daily inspections of equipment before and after use. Check fluids, tire pressure, hydraulics, and safety features.

  • Issue Reporting: Identify any equipment malfunctions or concerns and immediately report them to supervisors or maintenance.

  • Material Handling: Assist with sorting and staging different material streams as needed. Ensure proper separation of recyclables from landfill waste.

  • Yard & Floor Maintenance: Clean around compactors, loading docks, and dumping areas. Keep the site organized and free from excess debris to prevent hazards.

  • Safety Compliance: Follow all OSHA regulations and site-specific safety protocols, including high-visibility wear, seat belt usage, and safe driving practices.

  • Team Communication: Work closely with truck drivers, scale house staff, and operations personnel to support smooth and timely material flow.

  • Documentation: Log machine hours, inspection checklists, material loads, and any incidents or near misses.

Qualifications

  • Experience: At least 1 year operating heavy equipment in a recycling yard, transfer station, or similar environment.

  • Certifications: Valid equipment certifications (e.g., loader, skid steer, forklift). CDL a plus.

  • Mechanical Awareness: Ability to recognize and report mechanical or operational issues with equipment.

  • Physical Fitness: Able to lift 50 lbs, operate equipment for extended periods, and work in all weather conditions.

  • Safety-Oriented: Strong understanding of safe machine operation, vehicle traffic awareness, and workplace safety.

  • Communication Skills: Capable of clear communication with coworkers and supervisors in a fast-paced environment.

  • Adaptability: Willingness to handle changing priorities and support other yard tasks when needed.

Preferred Skills

  • Experience operating CAT, CASE, Volvo, or Bobcat equipment

  • Knowledge of compactor operations and load balancing

  • Familiarity with recycling material types and contamination prevention

Education

  • High school diploma or equivalent required

  • Vocational or safety training in equipment operation preferred

What We Offer

  • Competitive wages and benefits

  • Opportunities for advancement

  • A stable, year-round work environment

  • A team-oriented, supportive workplace

Company Description

Hamtramck Recycling is a waste recycling company located in Hamtramck Michigan. Our facility sorts and recycles material from the industrial and commercial waste stream that would otherwise find its home in one of the states many landfills. Our company is making an impact not only in our local community but in the entire metro Detroit area.