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Cat Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Truckee, CA · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Responsible for maintaining the picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individuals operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

West Dover, VT · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Responsible for maintaining the picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individuals operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Gorham, NH · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Responsible for maintaining the picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individuals operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Bennington, NH · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Responsible for maintaining the picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individuals operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Kirkwood, CA · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Responsible for maintaining the picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individuals operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Park City, UT · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Responsible for maintaining the picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individuals operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface ...

Vail Resorts

Snow Cat Operator

Kirkwood, CA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Stowe, VT · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Responsible for maintaining the picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individuals operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Leavenworth, WA · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

Responsible for maintaining the picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individuals operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface ...

Crotched Mountain

Snow Cat Operator

Bennington, NH

$20 - $23/hr

As a Snowcat Operator, you will groom and prepare the snow surface for the skiing guest. Learn to operate some of the coolest equipment in the ski industry! Seeking self-motivated, coordinated, and ...

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Cat Operator information

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$10

$23

$37

How much do cat operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cat operator 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 is a heavy equipment operator who specializes in running Caterpillar (Cat) machinery, such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders. They work in construction, mining, and other industries to move earth, dig trenches, and perform site preparation. Operators must be skilled in handling the equipment safely and efficiently while following job site regulations.

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

To thrive as a Cat Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of operating Caterpillar (Cat) heavy machinery, understanding of construction safety protocols, and mechanical aptitude, often acquired through vocational training or on-the-job experience. Certification from organizations such as the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) or completion of equipment-specific training programs may be required, along with familiarity with GPS and telematics systems used in modern equipment. Strong communication, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help operators coordinate effectively with site supervisors and crew members. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate execution of tasks in demanding construction or mining environments.

What does a cat operator do?

A typical day for a Cat Operator involves inspecting equipment before use, operating heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, or loaders to move earth and materials, and following site plans and safety protocols closely. Operators frequently communicate with project managers and other crew members to coordinate their work and adjust to changing site requirements. The role can involve long hours outdoors and requires vigilance to prevent accidents and maintain equipment performance. Working as a Cat Operator offers hands-on experience and can be a stepping stone to supervisory roles or specialized equipment operation with further training.

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What states have the most Cat Operator jobs?

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Cat Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cat Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,930 per year, or $23 per hour.

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Breckenridge Ski Resort

Breckenridge, CO

$22.26/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Create Your Experience of a Lifetime!

Come work and play in the mountains!  Whether it’s your first-time seeing snow or you were born on the slopes, joining our team means discovering (or re-discovering!) a passion for the outdoors while building lifelong connections with teammates and guests from around the world.

With 40+ resorts across 3 continents, you can join our team for a season or stay to build a career. From day one, you'll receive some of the highest compensation rates in the industry, free pass(es) along with free ski and snowboard lessons, 40% retail discounts, the chance to grow through Epic Service - our leading training and development experience, and wellness benefits to fuel your success.

Hiring for our seasonal positions occurs on a rolling basis. Applications will be accepted until December 15th or until the positions are filled (whichever is first).

Employee Benefits

•    Ski/Mountain Perks! Free passes for employees, employee discounted lift tickets for friends and family AND free ski lessons 
•    MORE employee discounts on lodging, food, gear, and mountain shuttles
•    401(k) Retirement Plan 
•    Employee Assistance Program
•    Excellent training and professional development
•    Referral Program

To Learn More, please review the Benefits Eligibility Summary

Job Summary: 

Service is the foundation of everything we stand for at Vail Resorts and our Snow Cat Operation team is no exception to creating this experience of a lifetime. Responsible for maintaining the picturesque appearance of our snow and ski slopes, Snow Cat Operators are safety minded individuals operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface for thrill seekers.  

Job Specifications:  

  • Starting Wage: $22.26/hr - $27.83/hr  

  • Employment Type: Winter Seasonal 2026/2027  

  • Shift Type: Full Time hours available 

  • Minimum Age: At least 18 years of age  

  • Housing Availability: Yes    

Job Responsibilities: 

  • Understand the use, operation, and maintenance of heavy equipment used for snow/slope grooming  

  • Operate snow/slope grooming equipment, such as a snowcat, to maintain the appearance and quality of resort snow trails and ski slopes to the highest level possible.   

  • Maintain a general knowledge of the mountain and adhere to safety regulations  

  • Perform basic routine inspections and preventative maintenance, on equipment to minimize downtime  

  • Communicate clearly and effectively via 2-way radio  

  • Communicate advanced mechanical problems or maintenance needs with shop mechanics    

  • Communicate effectively with coworkers and other departments to provide direction, support and maintain good working relationships    

  • Other duties as assigned  

Job Requirements: 

  • 2-4 years of snow grooming experience required  

  • Valid driver's license with no restrictions  

  • Must be able to communicate fluently in English   

  • Ability to work in small groups as well as independently  

  • Able to sit for extended periods of time while operating the snowcat as well as climb on and off frequently  

  • Knowledge in 2-way radio use and various codes 

The expected pay range is $22.26/hr - $27.83/hr. This is the pay range we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Individual compensation decisions are based on a variety of factors.

In completing this application, and when submitting related documentation, applicants may redact information that identifies their age, date of birth, and/or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution. 

We follow all federal, state, and local laws including restrictions on child/minor labor. Minors hired into this position will not be asked or permitted to engage in any activities restricted to adult workers.

Vail Resorts is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

Requisition ID  515668
Reference Date: 07/14/2026 
Job Code Function: Grooming  

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