1

Cat Loader Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Cat Loader Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do cat loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cat loader operator in Oak Ridge, TN is $18.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $21.39 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 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 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.
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Cat Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Cat Loader Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Cat Loader Operator job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,377 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Equipment Fleet Specialist - Generator Division

Equipment Fleet Specialist - Generator Division

Stowers Machinery Corporation

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Position Scope:
The position is responsible for maintaining the yard, equipment, and inventory while ensuring safety, organization, and operational efficiency at all times.
This role supports daily yard operations by managing equipment staging, inventory documentation, and customer interactions. The position ensures a clean, organized, and efficient yard environment while delivering a high-quality experience for both internal teams and external customers.
Communication
  • Communicate effectively via phone, text, and email, responding in a timely manner.
  • Maintain clear and consistent communication with internal teams to support smooth operations.

Inventory & Documentation
  • Maintain accurate rental inventory on a daily basis.
  • Keep precise inventory counts of cables, pigtails, hoses, ductwork, and related accessories.
  • Complete receiving records in DBS.
  • Send photos of the received inventory to the Manager.

Equipment Handling & Staging
  • Perform all required CAT inspections, including Yardman check-in and check-out inspections.
  • Receive and reposition new and used rental fleet/gensets as needed.
  • Remove customer stickers from rental fleet.
  • Stage rental fleet for customer pickup, shift prep, and nightly parts trucks within 30 minutes of internal notification.
  • Wash rental fleet placed in the wash line.

Yard Maintenance & Safety
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area at all times.
  • Conduct daily yard walks to identify safety concerns, misplaced rental fleet, open doors, or damage.
  • Ensure all vehicles and forklifts are clean and properly maintained.
  • Store all electrical components in dry conditions as soon as possible, especially during or after rain.
  • Use proper lifting devices to ensure all loads are secured correctly.
  • Operate forklifts and vehicles at safe speeds at all times.
  • Keep loads low while traveling; travel in reverse when vision is obstructed and use spotters when necessary.
  • Stay safe at all times and ask for assistance when needed to maintain a safe work environment.

Customer Experience
  • Greet customers promptly and maintain a friendly, calm, and professional demeanor.
  • Communicate clearly regarding machine readiness, preparation status, and timelines.
  • Ensure all required customer paperwork is completed, signed, and properly stored.

Knowledge & Skill Requirements
  • Strong teamwork and collaboration skills with the ability to build positive working relationships.
  • High attention to detail with strong organizational and time management abilities.
  • Ability to remain composed and communicate clearly in high-pressure situations.
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Comfort using mobile apps/systems ( Cat Inspect, DBS, Teams,etc.) for documentation and coordination.

Education Requirements
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Preferred Experience & Skills
  • Prior experience in yard operations, equipment handling, or related field preferred.
  • Familiarity with construction equipment/generators is a plus.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to operate equipment safely and efficiently.

Physical & Mental Requirements
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Be willing to work on call when needed.
  • Be willing to work after hours when needed to keep up with work demands.
  • Must pass background check, physical exam, and drug screening.

Work Environment
  • Primarily outdoor work in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow).
  • Physically active role involving equipment operation and movement throughout the yard.
  • Requires adherence to PPE requirements and safety procedures.
  • Collaborative environment working with operations, sales, parts, and service teams.
  • Must be adaptable and able to balance multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting.

Work Environment:
The environment is collaborative, and you will work closely with cross-functional teams such as operations, sales, parts and service. Flexibility and adaptability are key as you may need to address emerging issues and balance multiple priorities. The workplace fosters a customer-focused culture, where excellence in customer service quality, both internally and externally, is a primary objective.
This position is primarily outdoors and requires working in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow. The role involves physical activity, operating equipment, and navigating a busy yard environment throughout the day. Personal protective equipment must be worn in areas as required. Although the work usually is not considered inherently dangerous, employees must be careful while performing onsite services.
Why Stowers Machinery?
At Stowers Machinery, you're not just taking a job-you're joining a team that powers progress across East Tennessee as a trusted Caterpillar dealer. We invest in our people with hands-on training, clear career paths, and opportunities to grow across departments. You'll work alongside experienced teammates who value safety, teamwork, and doing things the right way-while making a real impact on customers and communities.
What You'll Get (Benefits & Perks):
  • Competitive pay + performance incentives
  • Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off + holidays
  • Ongoing training and career development
  • Opportunities for internal growth and advancement
  • Employee recognition programs
  • Supportive, team-first culture

If you're looking for a place where your work matters, your skills keep growing, and your team has your back-Stowers is it.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and the employee will also perform other reasonably related business duties as assigned by immediate supervisor and other management as required. Stowers Machinery Corporation reserves the right to revise or change duties as the need arises. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.