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Temporary Caterpillar Operator Jobs in California

Temporary Caterpillar Operator information

What is a temporary Caterpillar operator?

Temporary Caterpillar operators are workers hired on a short-term basis to operate heavy machinery manufactured by Caterpillar Inc., such as excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and other construction equipment. These operators are typically employed to fill in for permanent staff, support seasonal workloads, or assist on specific projects. Their main responsibilities include safely handling machinery, performing routine equipment checks, and assisting with construction, earthmoving, or material handling tasks. Temporary operators must usually have relevant experience or certifications and follow strict safety protocols while on the job.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a temporary Caterpillar operator?

To thrive as a Temporary Caterpillar Operator, you need experience operating heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and typically a valid equipment operator certification or license. Familiarity with Caterpillar equipment controls, safety systems, and maintenance protocols is essential. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to follow safety procedures make someone stand out in this position. These capabilities ensure safe, efficient operation and help prevent workplace accidents or equipment damage.

What challenges do temporary Caterpillar operators face and how can they be managed?

Temporary Caterpillar Operators often face challenges such as quickly adapting to different job sites and equipment models, as well as working efficiently within tight project timelines. Since assignments may vary, operators must rapidly learn site-specific safety protocols and collaborate closely with supervisors and other crew members to ensure smooth operations. Maintaining clear communication and being proactive about reporting equipment issues can help manage these challenges and contribute to a safe, productive work environment.

What is the difference between Temporary Caterpillar Operator vs Temporary Excavator Operator?

AspectTemporary Caterpillar OperatorTemporary Excavator Operator
CertificationsOSHA, equipment-specific trainingOSHA, equipment-specific training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, heavy machinery operationConstruction sites, heavy machinery operation
Industry UsageConstruction, mining, infrastructureConstruction, demolition, landscaping
Job FocusOperating Caterpillar machinery like bulldozers and loadersOperating excavators for digging and material handling

Both roles require similar certifications and work in construction environments, but the main difference lies in the equipment operated. Temporary Caterpillar Operators focus on bulldozers and loaders, while Temporary Excavator Operators specialize in excavators. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and workers align skills with job requirements.

How much does a temporary Caterpillar operator make?

A temporary Caterpillar operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. These roles often require certification or training in heavy machinery operation and may include benefits based on the employer and duration of employment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Caterpillar Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Caterpillar Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Temporary Caterpillar Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Temporary Caterpillar Operator job openings:

Equipment Operator

National Experienced Workforce Solutions

Death Valley, CA • On-site

$40/hr

Full-time

Medical

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Equipment OperatorID:NPSPWR-007-009Location:Death ValleyProgram:NPS
Wage/Hr:$40.00Hours/Week:40-50 Per weekMinimum Age:55

? This position supports the Pacific West Region of the National Park Service and work may be performed at Death Valley National Park and/or Mojave National Preserve. ? Enrollee will be housed in park-provided housing with full per diem in Primm, NV for the duration of work. Work duration will be at least 2-week tours of duty, potentially longer. ? The NPS can provide training on any equipment for which applicants do not have a current certification. ? The NPS Experienced Services Program is a unique partnership created to help solve the workforce issues facing government agencies. The program connects experienced workers (age 55+) to the NPS to provide scientific, technical, and administrative support. ? NPS ESP positions are meant to provide temporary, project-based support. This position is currently funded for an estimate of four weeks, but additional funding is anticipated and the duration may be extended. ? A background security investigation may be required prior to the start date. Only those positions with 30+ hours per week are eligible for health insurance benefits; all positions will accrue sick leave. ? The experienced workers participating in the Program are referred to as ?Enrollees? and are not employees of the NPS or NEW Solutions. NEW Solutions is the ESP non-governmental organization responsible for administrative aspects of the program, and the Enrollees work under NPS direction to assist the Agency staff in carrying out their mission. NPS ESP Enrollees benefit from the opportunity to keep technical skills current; to access new training opportunities; to engage in gainful project-based positions; and to undertake meaningful tasks using their experience and talent to contribute to the environment, the national economy, and their own financial security.

Qualifications:

Minimum of 5 year(s) of experience in project crew environment operating heavy equipment. Operating equipment with a high degree of dexterity, i.e., operating motor grader with hydraulic controls, making adjustments to blade while machine is in motion in order to do fine grading, ensuring the front wheels are properly adjusted for each cut made and maintains control of the machine. Work on unpaved roads, trails and grounds work practices, keeping erosion to a minimum and eliminating hazardous conditions. OR AA/HS Degree

  • CDL
Duties:

This position is in Death Valley National Park. The primary purpose of this position is to operate gasoline or diesel-powered engineering and construction heavy equipment to restore unpaved roads after flooding.

  • Operates gasoline or diesel-powered engineering and construction equipment with wheeled or crawler type traction, such as road graders (including Cat 16/160 or John Deer 722 (or equivalent) with up to 16-foot blade, tractors with bulldozer or angle dozer blades, front-end loaders (e.g., Caterpillar 988 size), excavators, backhoes, wheel loader, trench diggers, and large industrial tractors with pan or scraper attachments.   30%
  • Operates vehicles equipped with auxiliary attachments (i.e., side boom mower, sloper attachment and rear mounted rippers, or sanding units).   30%
  • Operates equipment to excavate, backfill, grade, or level earth to rough specifications on such projects as breaking new ground for trails, roads, canals, tunnels, or construction sites, with work completed to exact specifications on flat or rolling terrain, requiring more ?touch? than at lower grade levels. At this level, earth is moved on mountainous and steep slopes, graded curves and shoulders, rocky or soft ground, hilly forests, and other surfaces with similar rough terrain/features.   30%
  • May work with other staff in areas such as: assists with erosion control projects; digs holes to install signs; cleans drainage ditches, installs or cleans culverts and gutters; roadside litter patrol; unloads truck loads of supplies; cleans tool caches and work areas; removes rock slides from trails; and/or performing grass cutting as necessary. Uses and repairs hand and power tools.   10%

Other:
  • NPS can provide training for various pieces of equipment.
  • Required Certifications: Required to possess and maintain a valid CDL with appropriate endorsements prior to being assigned operator duties.
  • Travel Requirements: Traveling to and within Death Valley National Park
  • Overnight travel: During the term of this assignment.
  • Health and Safety Considerations: Incumbent is required to wear all applicable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) associated with the job. PPE will be provided at no cost and training will be provided for it.
  • Required Safety Gear: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Safety Gear Use: While on job site
  • Physical requirements: Working outside operating heavy equipment in many weather conditions.

NEW Solutions is committed to promoting equal opportunity and to an environment free from discrimination and harassment in any form administering Experienced Worker Programs under cooperative agreements with federal agencies. It is NEW Solutions' policy to comply with all applicable laws that provide equal opportunity and to prohibit unlawful discrimination in enrolling participants in the federal programs.