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Cat Loader Operator Jobs in Spokane, WA (NOW HIRING)

Western States CAT

Equipment Yard Attendant

Liberty Lake, WA · On-site

$17.97 - $24.44/hr

... operating certifications in various brands of equipment. They must have the ability to complete ... Completes final check of all equipment leaving the yard to include proper load securement and safe ...

All JobsCat Loader Operator JobsCat Loader Operator Jobs in Spokane, WA

Cat Loader Operator information

See Spokane, WA salary details

$11

$20

$28

How much do cat loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cat loader operator in Spokane, WA is $20.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $22.60 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 Spokane, WA? For Cat Loader Operator jobs in Spokane, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cat Loader Operator jobs in Spokane, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Cat Loader Operator jobs in Spokane, WA are:
What cities near Spokane, WA are hiring for Cat Loader Operator jobs? Cities near Spokane, WA with the most Cat Loader Operator job openings:
Cat Loader Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cat Loader Operator job openings in Spokane, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,646 per year, or $20 per hour.

Diesel Technician (Diesel Mechanic)

Dobbs Peterbilt

Liberty Lake, WA

$25 - $33.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Dobbs Peterbilt rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 150 rated car dealerships

Job description

IntroductionAt Dobbs Truck Group, a part of our mission is to create relationships and a healthy work environment for our employees. We are always looking for qualified, customer-oriented individuals at Dobbs Truck Group.

Overview

The Dobbs Truck Group is a growth company that successfully expands our operations and customer base through a high-quality team of employees.

Dobbs Truck Group operates 25 commercial truck dealerships through two operating companies – Dobbs Peterbilt and Western Truck Center. These dealerships represent some of the best commercial truck brands including Peterbilt, Volvo, Mack, Autocar, and Hino and include locations in Arkansas, California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oregon, Tennessee, and Washington.

We offer a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, long-term disability, life insurance, and 401(k), as well as paid vacation and sick leave. Our Company is looking for long-term employees that we can invest in and grow with as we pursue our mission of being the premier commercial truck dealer group.

General Job Description

This position is responsible for the diagnosis and repair of all vehicles and equipment serviced by the Company’s facilities. Service Technicians are expected to perform with the highest degree of professional competence as it relates to quality of work, product knowledge, and customer service.

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Responsibilities

Level One 

  • Lube Technician
  • Helper and intermediary
  • Engines – Quick Service
  • Belts/hoses
  • Simple electrical
  • Radiator flushing/servicing
  • Transmission and Differential
  • Adjust clutch (internal and external)
  • Seal replacement (wheels differential and transmission)
  • U-joint/drivetrain
  • Brakes and Axles
  • Basic understanding of air systems
  • Replace brake shoes and drums
  • Wheel seal replacement
  • R&R brake valves (QC, relay, etc.)
  • Brake adjustments
  • Electrical
  • Service and R&R batteries
  • Load test and replace alternators
  • Light repairs, R&R assemblies and bulbs, simple wiring
  • Load test starter and R&R
  • Chassis and Suspension
  • Replace shocks
  • Inspect components and report findings
  • Administrative Responsibilities
  • Follow shop policies and procedures
  • Report directly to supervisor 70-90% of the time
  • Typing detailed stories on repairs performed
  • Clean up shop bay 

Level Two

  • Proficiency in Level 1
  • Complete repairs in estimated time per industry standards
  • Electrical 
  • Troubleshoot and repair general electrical failures, charging systems, and starting systems
  • Able to read and understand wiring schematics
  • Able to troubleshoot electrical circuits
  • HVAC systems 
  • A/C certifications
  • Understand how the system works 
  • Recover and charge system 
  • Leak checking with nitrogen dye and sniffer
  • Perform PM servicing on system 
  • Flush system 
  • Troubleshoot air conditioning and heater system for proper operation 
  • Make up a line/hose for replacement 
  • Replace evaporator, condenser, expansion valves, orifice tube, compressor clutch
  • Clutches
  • Determine failure
  • R&R all types (Med & HD trucks)
  • Cross-shafts
  • Resurface flywheels
  • Differential 
  • Replace yokes, u-joints, carrier bearing
  • Brake System
  • Thorough understanding of truck/trailer air & hydraulic brake system operation
  • Advanced troubleshooting abilities
  • ABS system repairs
  • Failure analysis on wheel bearings and races
  • Hub Repairs (seals/bearings/races)
  • Steer Axle
  • R&R springs
  • R&R draglink/tie rod and ends
  • Set toe-in – use front alignment equipment
  • Replace king pins
  • Rear Suspensions
  • Understand drive-train dynamics
  • Able to measure and understand driveline angles
  • Able to set air ride height 
  • Spring replacement
  • Air Bag replacement 
  • Air Suspension plumbing and installation 
  • Air ride vales and controls
  • Torque/Stabilizer arms and equalizer replacement
  • Bushing replacement
  • Steering 
  • Replace P/S filter and service system
  • Administrative Responsibilities
  • Report directly to supervisor less than 100 percent of the time
  • Less than 3% comeback ratio
  • 85% efficiency ratio
  • Understand and use precision tooling
  • Understand warranty coverage and limitations 

Level Three

  • Proficiency in Level 1 & 2
  • Perform DOT inspection 
  • Able to do a complete engine overhaul with troubleshooting, and repair on CAT, Cummins, & MX engines 
  • Able to do a complete transmission overhaul on Eaton, Meritor, Spicer including auto shift, and sure shift
  • Able to do a complete differential overhaul with troubleshooting and repair
  • Able to do advanced HVAC diagnostics and repairs
  • Able to do advanced electronic troubleshooting and repairs
  • Administrative Responsibilities
  • Able to supervise and mentor level 1 and 2 technicians
  • Able to obtain any information on the manufacture’s website
  • Report directly to supervisory less than 100 percent of the time 
  • 85% efficiency ratio
  • Type detailed complaint (cause/correction) on repairs
  • Understand warranty coverage and limitations
  • Able to make concise estimates and obtain SRTs & TRGs times, as needed
  • Knows industry standards for 85% of all repairs
  • Electronic 
  • Use and understand engine/truck specific software- INSITE, ET, STW, EDS
  • Read printouts and translate for diagnostic repairs
  • Program engines using ESDN, EZ TEC software
  • Engine and components (able to TROUBLESHOOT, adjust, tune-up, and repair) 
  • Caterpillar engines – 3100, 3300, 3400 & 3406 models
  • Cummins engines – NT series, N14/M11/L10, ISM/ISB/ISC/ISX
  • Detroit engines – 50/60 series
  • Components – able to perform service or replace:
  • Cylinder Head
  • Turbocharger
  • Injectors
  • Rod and Main
  • Fuel pump
  • Oil Pump
  • Water pump
  • Jacob Brake Assemblies
  • Thermostats
  • All engine seals (front/rear mains)
  • Able to use dye troubleshoot procedures
  • Training/Certifications 
  • Completed all Peterbilt Training courses (online, self-study, or factory course)
  • Completed 95% of Caterpillar, Cummins, or International factory course
  • Transmission 
  • Diagnose common failures
  • Input Shaft R&R
  • Rear Section O/H (synchro/gearing)
  • Differential 
  • Diagnose Failures
  • Reseal Differentials 
  • Reseal a Power Divider assembly
  • Steering 
  • R&R gear boxes
  • R&R steering pump assemblies
  • R&R steering column u-joint/driveline
  • 5th Wheel 
  • Able to rebuild assembly (all makes)
  • Able to install new fifth-wheel assemblies (air or manual) and plumb gauges/switches as needed

Requirements

  • 18 years of age.
  • High school graduate or GED.
  • Minimum tool requirements (see below).
  • Minimum of 1-2 years of direct mechanic experience on heavy trucks or equipment – or a combination of experience PLUS vocational training, trade or technical school degree/certification of completion. 

Desired Job Qualifications

  • High school graduate or GED.
  • Minimum of 4 years of direct mechanic experience on heavy trucks or equipment.
  • Ability to perform vehicle lubrication systems and D.O.T. safety inspections.
  • Dependable team player with a positive attitude.

Mental Capability Requirements

  • Comprehension: Ability to understand complex problems, collaborate, and explore alternative solutions.
  • Organization: Ability to organize thoughts and ideas into understandable terminology.
  • Reasoning & Decision Making: Ability to make decisions with moderate impact on immediate work unit.
  • Communication: Ability to use and complete routine forms and/or conduct routine oral communication.
  • Mathematics: Ability to compute, analyze, and interpret numerical data for reporting purposes.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, and taste or smell. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 65 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and risk of electrical shock. The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, extreme heat, and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and outside weather conditions. The noise level is normally loud.

Common Expectations of Performance for all Employees

The following includes common expectations for all employees of the Company. The evaluation of job performance will be based on these common expectations as well as the position-specific responsibilities described above.

Communications, Teamwork, and Feedback to Others

  • Contribute to a work environment that is based on trust and respect.
  • Have discussions on a regular basis with their manager to discuss opportunities to best achieve individual performance objectives and departmental goals.
  • Suggest ways to improve the efficiency of conducting their job duties.
  • Promote continuous improvement and change to support company growth.
  • Mentor others unselfishly.
  • Give credit where it’s due.

Company Loyal Policies and Work Ethic

  • Adhere to the policies contained in the Employee Handbook.
  • Adhere to the Company’s Employee Conduct Policy.
  • Support management decisions toward meeting company goals.
  • Be open and receptive to new ideas, regardless of their origin.
  • Make prudent decisions, which are based on the best interest of the Company and its long-term future.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

Dobbs Truck Group operates 23 commercial truck dealerships through two operating companies – Dobbs Peterbilt and Western Truck Center.

Dobbs Peterbilt and Western Truck Center are equal opportunity employers that values a broad diversity of talent, knowledge, experience, and expertise. We foster a culture of inclusion that drives employee engagement to deliver superior performance to the communities we serve. Dobbs Peterbilt and Western Truck Parts do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, ancestry, pregnancy, genetic information, gender identity, sexual orientation, or marital status; or on the basis of age against persons whose age is 40 and over, or on the basis of physical or mental disability; or to disabled veterans or to Vietnam veterans.

We are proud to be an affirmative action employer and encourage minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to join our team.

Salary Description
$28.00 - $40.00 hourly + comp plan

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