ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cat Operator Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peterson

Demonstrator Operator

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Peterson Cat has a need for a Demonstrator Operator who will be based at our San Leandro, CA ... We also offer a total compensation package in addition to base salary.) Peterson Tractor Co. is ...

PetersonCat

Demonstrator Operator

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Peterson Cat has a need for a Demonstrator Operator who will be based at our San Leandro, CA ... We also offer a total compensation package in addition to base salary.) Peterson Tractor Co. is ...

CareWell Health

Cat Scan Technologist

East Orange, NJ

$45 - $53/hr

Maintains the CAT scanning equipment in good operating order. Cleans and maintains the CAT room ... The salary range does not include bonuses/incentives, differential pay or other forms of ...

CareWell Health

Cat Scan Technologist

East Orange, NJ

$22.50 - $26.50/wk

Maintains the CAT scanning equipment in good operating order. Cleans and maintains the CAT room ... The salary range does not include bonuses/incentives, differential pay or other forms of ...

Lignetics

Forklift Operator - 12 hours

Sand Fork, WV · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Forklift Operator Salary: $17-$18/hour Hours: 2-2-3 schedule ... cat litter. Each of our products have unique features and benefits but are all linked with a ...

Milton CAT

Construction Equipment Operator

Londonderry, NH · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Milton CAT is seeking a knowledgeable professional to join our Machine Technology Team. In this ... This is a salaried position. Company vehicle, computer and cell phone. * Testing and tuning new ...

Milton CAT

Construction Equipment Operator

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Milton CAT is seeking a knowledgeable professional to join our Machine Technology Team. In this ... This is a salaried position. Company vehicle, computer and cell phone. Responsibilities * Testing ...

Milton CAT

Construction Equipment Operator

Londonderry, NH · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Milton CAT is seeking a knowledgeable professional to join our Machine Technology Team. In this ... This is a salaried position. Company vehicle, computer and cell phone. Responsibilities * Testing ...

Milton CAT

Construction Equipment Operator

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Milton CAT is seeking a knowledgeable professional to join our Machine Technology Team. In this ... This is a salaried position. Company vehicle, computer and cell phone. Responsibilities * Testing ...

Milton CAT

Construction Equipment Operator

Lewiston, ME · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Milton CAT is seeking a knowledgeable professional to join our Machine Technology Team. In this ... This is a salaried position. Company vehicle, computer and cell phone. Responsibilities * Testing ...

Milton CAT

Construction Equipment Operator

Augusta, ME · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Milton CAT is seeking a knowledgeable professional to join our Machine Technology Team. In this ... This is a salaried position. Company vehicle, computer and cell phone. Responsibilities * Testing ...

Milton CAT

Construction Equipment Operator

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Milton CAT is seeking a knowledgeable professional to join our Machine Technology Team. In this ... This is a salaried position. Company vehicle, computer and cell phone. Responsibilities * Testing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCat Operator Salary Jobs

Cat Operator Salary information

See salary details

$10

$23

$37

How much do cat operator salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cat operator salary in the United States is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cat operator?

A Cat Operator, short for Caterpillar Operator, is a heavy equipment operator who specializes in operating Caterpillar machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders. Salaries for Cat Operators vary based on location, experience, and the specific type of equipment operated, but in the United States, they typically earn between $40,000 and $65,000 per year. Some experienced operators working in high-demand regions or industries can earn more, especially with overtime or specialized certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cat operator?

To thrive as a CAT Operator, you need proficiency in operating heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a valid operator’s license or certification. Familiarity with equipment like excavators, bulldozers, and loaders, as well as safety protocols and sometimes GPS or telematics systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, communication, and strong problem-solving skills help operators work safely and efficiently on construction sites. These skills and qualifications ensure safe equipment operation, project accuracy, and compliance with industry regulations.

What are some common challenges cat operators face on construction sites, and how can they prepare for them?

Cat Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating uneven terrain, and coordinating with other heavy equipment operators. To prepare, it's important to stay up to date with equipment maintenance, follow all safety protocols, and communicate effectively with the site supervisor and team members. Additionally, operators should be ready to adapt to schedule changes and new project requirements, which helps ensure both safety and project efficiency.

What is the difference between Cat Operator Salary vs Excavator Operator Salary?

AspectCat Operator SalaryExcavator Operator Salary
Required CredentialsOSHA certification, equipment trainingOSHA certification, equipment training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, heavy machineryConstruction sites, heavy machinery
Industry UsageConstruction, mining, landscapingConstruction, mining, infrastructure

Both Cat Operators and Excavator Operators typically require similar certifications and work in comparable environments within the construction and mining industries. The main difference lies in the specific equipment operated; Cat Operators handle Caterpillar machinery, while Excavator Operators work with various brands of excavators. Salary differences are often minimal and depend on experience, location, and employer.

How much do Cat operators make?

Cat operators, also known as heavy equipment operators, typically earn between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They operate large machinery such as bulldozers and excavators on construction sites and often require specialized training and safety certifications.
More about Cat Operator Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Cat Operator Salary jobs? Cities with the most Cat Operator Salary job openings:
What states have the most Cat Operator Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Cat Operator Salary jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cat Operator Salary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cat Operator Salary jobs are:
Cat Operator Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cat Operator Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,930 per year, or $23 per hour.

Demonstrator Operator

Peterson

San Leandro, CA • On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

It's your time, make it matter.
At Peterson, we partner with our customers to build the future. For over 85 years, our peoples' work has shaped the communities where we live, where we raise our families, and where we thrive. Peterson's legacy permeates every aspect of our communities. From roads and bridges, back-up power at hospitals, fire-fighting, concerts and moving goods; we are everywhere you look. At Peterson, you don't just have a career, you have a purpose.
Our family-oriented environment is built on safety, winning, growth, and professional achievement. Hiring and developing exceptional people is critical to our continued success. We have high standards for a good reason: our people represent Peterson, our family, our brand, and our values.
You have high expectations too. You are exceptionally motivated, have outstanding skills, and want your work to matter. Peterson offers competitive wages, generous benefits, and promotional opportunities at a family-owned and operated business. It's time to use your skills and passion to do work that matters!
Job Description
Peterson Cat has a need for a Demonstrator Operator who will be based at our San Leandro, CA location.
SUMMARY
The Demonstrator Operator supports the Earthmoving Sales department by demonstrating equipment operation and developing and conducting formal equipment operator training courses for customers and Peterson personnel. This role also assists Sales staff by communicating the benefits of Cat machines to customers, conducts customer site assessments to identify opportunities for customer to enhance profits and reduce maintenance costs, and assists with addressing customer complaints concerning machine performance.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
The following reflects management's definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign the functions to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. Job functions include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Plan and conduct equipment operation demonstrations as required by the Sales department.
  • Conduct machine delivery training for customers, including the completion of Delivery Service Reports.
  • Conduct formal, certified customer machine training courses throughout the assigned territory that meet Caterpillar and Peterson standards, travelling locally and to remote customer sites on a regular basis.
  • Collaborate with machine Sales Representatives, Product Support Sales Representatives, and Sales management to assist with machine sales.
  • Perform site assessments as required by customers and Peterson Sales department.
  • Oversee and manage all customer related production studies.
  • Maintain knowledge of features, benefits, and applications of all Cat equipment sold and serviced by Peterson.
  • Communicate directly with customers and resolve machine performance issues.
  • Conduct internal training as necessary to support Peterson Sales and Rental departments.
  • Conduct professional machine demos and head-to-head demos versus the competition.
  • Develop an operation assessment when a machine or fleet does not meet the expectations of the operator, supervisor, or owner.
  • Manage conflicts that may arise when a machine is not performing and it cannot be determined if a problem is a mechanical issue or an operator issue.
  • Educate internal and external stakeholders on the advantages of owning and operating a Cat machine vs. competitors.
  • Plan and develop curriculum and strategies for the purpose of performing revenue-generating Cat operator certification courses, training customers on the safe and productive operation of Cat equipment.
  • Work safely at all times. Adhere to all applicable safety policies. Comply with all company policies, procedures, and standards.
  • Travel away from base location regularly to conduct operator training and equipment demonstrations throughout the assigned territory; operate company or personal vehicle as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS
High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED); and a minimum of five (5) years of related experience in heavy equipment operation; preferably in a heavy industrial environment; or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
  • Successful completion of Caterpillar machine operator training required.
  • Associate degree in a related field highly preferred.
  • Must be able to travel within assigned territory, including overnight travel.

CERTIFICATES, LICENCENSES, REGISTRATIONS
  • Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record required.
  • Caterpillar Certified Operator Certificate preferred.

The pay range for this position is: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00 (Starting wage will depend on experience and education. We also offer a total compensation package in addition to base salary.)
Peterson Tractor Co. is committed to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action. Minorities, females, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. A drug screen and background check is required.

Apply