CAT 980 Wheel Loader Operator -- Big Iron, Steady Schedule Reno, NV area | Full-Time | $24.00/hour | Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM The Opportunity If you know your way around a 980, you know most ...
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CAT 980 Wheel Loader Operator -- Big Iron, Steady Schedule Reno, NV area | Full-Time | $24.00/hour | Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM The Opportunity If you know your way around a 980, you know most ...
Rental Yard Worker
Reno, NV · On-site
$20.05 - $23.30/hr
Loads, unloads, refuels, moves, ships and receives machines for the Pump and Power Systems Rental ... Experience operating forklifts and large equipment. * Ability to operate and use cleaning equipment ...
Rental Yard Worker
Reno, NV · On-site
$20.05 - $23.30/hr
Loads, unloads, refuels, moves, ships and receives machines for the Pump and Power Systems Rental ... Experience operating forklifts and large equipment. * Ability to operate and use cleaning equipment ...
Equipment Operator
$31 - $35/hr
Must be familiar with safely operating a Mini Excavator, Skid Steer, Loader and Backhoe. *(We run mostly Cat, but do run some Deere and Bobcat equipment. $31-$35.00/hr. PEAK LANDSCAPE INC is a well ...
Quick apply
Equipment Operator
$31 - $35/hr
Must be familiar with safely operating a Mini Excavator, Skid Steer, Loader and Backhoe. *(We run mostly Cat, but do run some Deere and Bobcat equipment. $31-$35.00/hr. PEAK LANDSCAPE INC is a well ...
Cat Loader Operator information
See Reno, NV salary details
$11.03 - $12.59
1% of jobs
$12.59 - $14.16
2% of jobs
$14.16 - $15.73
12% of jobs
$16.73 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.73 - $17.30
16% of jobs
$17.30 - $18.87
16% of jobs
The median wage is $19.12 / hr.
$18.87 - $20.44
20% of jobs
$21.61 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.44 - $22.01
11% of jobs
$22.01 - $23.58
13% of jobs
$23.58 - $25.14
7% of jobs
$25.14 - $26.71
1% of jobs
$26.71 - $28.28
1% of jobs
$11
$19
$28
How much do cat loader operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for cat loader operator in Reno, NV is $19.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
How do you become a loader operator?
To become a loader operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. Some employers prefer candidates with experience operating heavy machinery and may require certification in equipment operation or safety training. Gaining skills in equipment maintenance and safety procedures is also beneficial.
What jobs pay $700 a day?
Certain high-paying construction roles, such as experienced heavy equipment operators like cat loader operators, can earn around $700 per day, especially with specialized skills, certifications, and overtime. Jobs in skilled trades, project management, or consulting in construction and industrial sectors may also reach this daily rate. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and project scope.
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 is the highest paid heavy equipment operator job?
The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those who specialize in operating large machinery such as crane operators, bulldozers, or excavators in industries like oil and gas, construction, or mining. Crane operators, in particular, tend to have higher salaries due to the skill and certification requirements involved. Experience, certifications, and working in high-risk environments can significantly increase earning potential for heavy equipment operators.
Is a loader operator a good job?
A loader operator is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery like front-end loaders, often in construction, mining, or landscaping. The job typically offers steady employment, competitive wages, and requires safety training and certification. It can be physically demanding and involves working outdoors in various weather 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 Reno, NV? For Cat Loader Operator jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
- Logging Equipment Operator
- Heavy Fire Equipment Operator
- Front End Loader
- Independent Contractor Heavy Equipment Operator
- Remote Heavy Equipment Operator
- Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator
- Loader Operator
- Remote Dozer Operator
- Seasonal Heavy Equipment Operator
- Full Time Fly In Fly Out Heavy Equipment Operator
What job categories do people searching Cat Loader Operator jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Cat Loader Operator jobs in Reno, NV are:
- Available Mining
- Heavy Equipment Operator Front End Loader
- Travel Heavy Equipment Operator
- Dozers Operator
- Remote International Heavy Equipment Operator
- Entry Level Fifo Heavy Equipment Operator
- Remote Heavy Wrecker Operator
- Prevailing Wage Heavy Equipment Operator
- Fifo Heavy Equipment Operator
- Remote Ancient Aliens
$24/hr
Full-time
Posted 28 days ago
Job description
CAT 980 Wheel Loader Operator — Big Iron, Steady Schedule
Reno, NV area | Full-Time | $24.00/hour | Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The Opportunity
If you know your way around a 980, you know most operator jobs don't respect the machine or the person in the seat. This one does. Our client runs an active aggregate operation and is hiring an experienced CAT 980 Wheel Loader Operator who takes pride in their equipment, runs clean and safe, and knows how to keep trucks, hoppers, and crushers fed. Monday–Friday days, no weekend grind.
Why You'll Love It
- Consistent schedule: M–F, 7 to 5 — home every night, weekends off
- Respected seat: They want an operator who owns the machine, not a warm body
- Variety on site: Loading, stockpile work, blending, and site support keep the day moving
- Safety-first culture: MSHA/OSHA standards enforced without exception
What You'll Do
- Operate a CAT 980 loading customer trucks, haul trucks, hoppers, crushers, screens, and conveyors
- Build, maintain, and reclaim stockpiles; blend materials to spec
- Perform daily pre-op inspections and equipment checklists
- Monitor machine performance and report mechanical issues promptly
- Assist with road maintenance, drainage, snow removal, and site housekeeping
- Communicate with scale operators, drivers, plant operators, mechanics, and supervisors
- Run efficient — minimize fuel burn and equipment wear
- Handle minor maintenance: fueling, greasing, cleaning
- Participate in safety meetings and ongoing training
What You'll Bring
- Proven experience on a CAT 980 or similar-class wheel loader
- Ability to operate safely in all weather and site conditions
- Basic equipment maintenance and inspection knowledge
- Strong situational awareness and safety commitment; MSHA/OSHA familiarity a plus
- Physical ability to climb equipment, sit for extended periods, work outdoors, and lift 50 lbs occasionally
- High school diploma or GED preferred
- Must pass background check and drug screen
- Preferred: aggregate/sand and gravel experience, stockpile management, water truck experience, two-way radio use
Run the loader like it's yours. Apply today.