A skid steer is an incredibly versatile tool, which is why you’ll find it on most job sites. However, learning how to use a skid steer can be intimidating. Small but mighty, this type of equipment can weigh as much as a small vehicle, and its compact size makes it a popular choice for a variety of projects—whether you need to haul materials or debris, dig up landscaping materials or level and grade a piece of land.
Skid steers are multipurpose workhorses suitable for both commercial job sites and DIY home projects. While they’re fairly easy to operate, it does take some practice. If you’re looking to learn how to operate a skid steer, follow these step-by-step instructions to get started.
What Is a Skid Steer?
A skid steer loader is a compact construction machine designed to dig, lift, and move material. It has four wheels or tracks and uses hydraulic lift arms to operate a bucket or other attachments.
Many people refer to skid steers as “Bobcats,” but Bobcat is actually a brand that manufactures skid steer loaders. The operating principles are similar across most skid steer machines.
Skid steer loaders are used in various applications, including:
- Construction
- Landscaping
- Agriculture
- Snow Removal
- Demolition
Because they are small and highly maneuverable, they can be operated in tight spaces where larger equipment won’t fit.
The name “skid steer” comes from the way the machine turns. Most vehicles, like cars and trucks, use Ackermann steering. Their front wheels pivot to follow a curve. In contrast, the left and right wheels of a skid steer are powered by separate hydraulic motors.
When the wheels on one side rotate faster than the other, the machine pivots by skidding the tires across the ground. This allows a skid steer to rotate 360 degrees within its own footprint, making it ideal for crowded jobsites and narrow spaces.
Because of this design, skid steer working movements rely on controlled wheel speed and precise operation of the lift arms and bucket.
Types of Skid Steer Control Patterns
Skid steers can use different control systems depending on the manufacturer and model. Some machines use hand levers and foot pedals, while others rely on joystick-based systems.
These control layouts are often referred to as control patterns.
ISO Controls (Modern Standard)
ISO controls are common on many modern skid steer loaders. In this layout, the left joystick controls machine movement, while the right joystick operates the lift arms and bucket.
Examples include:
- Bobcat S650, S76, and T770
- John Deere 324G and 330G
- CAT 262D3 and 289D3
- Kubota SSV75
- Case SV340
Many modern machines allow operators to switch between ISO and other control patterns through the settings.
H-Pattern Controls (Traditional Layout)
H-pattern controls were common on older skid steers and are still found on some machines today.
In this configuration:
- Hand levers control driving and steering
- Foot pedals operate the lift arms and bucket
Examples of skid steers that use this pattern include older Bobcat models, such as the 743 and 753, and older New Holland skid steers. Many operators learned on this system before joystick controls became common.
Pilot Controls
Pilot controls in skid steer systems use hydraulic signals instead of mechanical linkages. These controls require less physical force and allow smoother machine operation.
Foot-and-Hand Controls
Some skid steers combine hand levers for driving with foot pedals for bucket operation. This configuration remains common in older machines and certain equipment brands.
Skid Steer Controls Explained
Before operating the machine, it’s important to be familiar with the basic skid steer controls. Most machines use a combination of hand controls, foot pedals, and joysticks to control movement and bucket functions.
While control layouts vary slightly by manufacturer, the basic skid steer controls are similar across machines from brands like Bobcat, CAT, and John Deere. To be safe, always check the operator’s manual to confirm the exact controls for your skid steer’s make and model.
Starter Controls
Different skid steers have different starter controls — typically either an ignition operated by a key (similar to a car) or a keyless starter button. You usually find them on the side console or upper dashboard inside the cab.
Foot Controls
Some skid steers use foot pedals to control the bucket and lift arms. One pedal usually raises and lowers the lift arms, while the other tilts the bucket forward or backward. These skid steer foot controls are common on older machines.
Bucket Controls
The bucket controls raise or lower the lift arms and tilt the bucket. These movements allow the operator to dig, scoop material, dump loads, and level surfaces.
Hand Controls/Drive Controls
Drive controls move the skid steer forward, backward, and allow it to turn. Depending on the control pattern, these may be hand levers or a single joystick.
On machines with two drive levers, pushing both controls forward moves the machine straight ahead, while pulling them back moves it in reverse. Adjusting one control more than the other causes the skid steer to turn or pivot.
On machines with ISO skid steer joystick controls, the left joystick controls forward, reverse, and turning movements. The right joystick operates the lift arms and the attachment.
The following controls are based on a John Deere skid steer using an ISO control pattern (as opposed to the dual lever foot control you’ll find on most Bobcat skid steers).
Left Joystick: Driving controls (left hand)
- Push forward—drives skid steer forward
- Pull back—puts skid steer in reverse
- Move to the left—turns left
- Move to the right—turns right
Right Joystick: Boom and bucket controls (right hand)
- Pull back—raises the boom up
- Move to the right—opens bucket
- Move to the left—closes bucket
- Push forward—lowers the boom down
Automatic Lockout System
Modern skid steers come with an operator-presence safety system that prevents the machine from moving or operating its hydraulics until the operator is properly positioned. When the engine starts, the controls stay locked until the operator sits, fastens the seatbelt, and lowers the safety restraint bar.
Only once these conditions are met can the operator enable the controls using a hydraulic enable switch or parking brake control located near the instrument panel. This safety system helps prevent accidental machine movement when entering or exiting the cab.
Monitoring Features and Gauges
At a minimum, your skid steer should have the following gauges and controls:
- Fuel Gauge: Displays the amount of fuel in the fuel tank
- Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge: Indicates the engine coolant temperature
- Auxiliary Hydraulic Override Switch: Allows the auxiliary hydraulics to operate after exiting the machine and discontinues the hydraulic flow that drives the skid steer’s attachments. Often used when switching attachments.
- High Flow Switch: Used to power attachments that require a high flow rate to operate
- Hydraulics OFF Indicator: Red indicator light displayed when hydraulics are disabled
- Hydraulic Oil Temperature Indicator: Red indicator light displayed when the hydraulic oil temperature is too high
- Water-in-Fuel Indicator: Alerts operator when water is detected in the fuel system
- Parking Brake Indicator: Red indicator light displayed when the parking brake is engaged
Skid steers, such as those made by Bobcat, will also show fault codes on the instrument panel when there is an issue.
How to Start a Skid Steer
The startup process is similar across most machines, whether you’re learning how to start a Bobcat skid steer or one made by John Deere, Kubota, or CAT.
Here’s how to turn on a skid steer:
1) Enter the Cab and Buckle Up
Climb into the operator’s seat and secure your seatbelt before starting the machine.
2) Lower the Safety Bar
Most skid steers require the safety bar to be lowered before controls become active.
3) Insert the Key
Turn the ignition key to start the machine. Allow the engine to idle briefly.
If the machine uses a keyless ignition, press the Power or Run button to activate the instrument display. Some skid steers require the operator to enter a security code using a keypad before the machine can be started.
On diesel models, the system may run a short preheat or glow plug cycle before the engine can start. Once the system indicates it is ready, press the Start button to start the engine and allow it to settle into idle.
4) Check the Machine Status
Look at the instrument panel or digital display to confirm there are no warning lights or active fault codes. Verify that the engine is running smoothly and check the fuel level to ensure there is enough fuel for the planned task.
5) Enable the Hydraulic System
Most skid steers require the operator to enable the hydraulic controls before the machine can move. After fastening the seatbelt and lowering the safety bar, press the hydraulic enable or “press to operate” button, often marked with a padlock symbol. This unlocks the drive controls and activates the lift arms and bucket.
These steps apply to most machines, including many Bobcat models, although the exact procedure may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer. On some machines, the parking brake must also be released before you can activate the controls.
How to Drive a Skid Steer (Step-by-Step)
The basic driving process is similar whether you’re learning how to drive a skid steer or how to drive a Bobcat loader. The process can be broken down into simple steps.
Here’s how to run a skid steer correctly and safely:
Step 1: Start the Machine
Start the engine and allow the machine to idle briefly while the systems initialize. Make sure the seatbelt and safety bar are secured and the hydraulic controls are enabled before moving the machine.
Step 2: Release the Parking Brake
Most skid steers include a parking brake or lockout system that prevents movement until the operator releases it. Once disengaged, the drive and hydraulic controls will activate.
Step 3: Move Forward and Backward
Use the drive controls to move the skid steer forward or backward. Depending on the control pattern, this may involve pushing both drive levers forward or moving the left joystick forward.
Use small, gradual control movements to keep the machine steady and avoid sudden jerks while driving.
Step 4: Turn the Skid Steer
To turn the skid steer, adjust the drive controls so one side of the machine moves faster than the other. On machines with dual levers, pushing one lever farther forward will cause the machine to turn. On joystick-controlled machines, moving the left joystick left or right steers the loader.
Step 5: Practice Bucket Movements
Before working with materials, practice raising and lowering the lift arms and tilting the empty bucket.
Pull the attachment control back to raise the lift arms and push it forward to lower them. Moving the control left or right curls the bucket forward or backward.
Practicing these movements helps you get a better feel for how the machine responds before you perform actual work.
Step 6: Scoop Material
Once you’re comfortable with all the controls, you’re ready to use your skid steer to scoop up a pile of material. Your bucket should be low and to the ground when approaching the pile.
Drive slowly into the pile while curling the bucket upward to scoop the material. Once the bucket is filled, back away from the pile and raise the lift arms slightly. Loads should be carried low to maintain stability while driving.
Step 7: Dump Material
Once you’ve filled your bucket with material, it’s time to dump it. It’s a good idea to practice scooping and dumping with the same pile to get a feel for the machine.
Drive to the dumping location and raise the lift arms as needed. Tilt the bucket forward to release the material, then curl the bucket back. Back the machine away until you are clear of the pile or truck, then lower the lift arms to a safe carrying height.
How to Operate a Skid Steer for Beginners
Operating a skid steer takes a little getting used to, especially if you’ve never operated heavy machinery before. It requires coordination and practice to get used to the controls.
The tips below will help new operators build confidence when learning how to use a skid steer before working in tighter areas or around obstacles.
Start in a Large Open Space
Begin practicing in a wide, open area before operating near structures, equipment, or other workers. Having extra space allows you to focus on learning the controls without worrying about obstacles.
Practice on a Level Surface
Beginners often struggle with the rocking motion of a skid steer. Driving it on a slope makes that sensation much more pronounced and can be intimidating. If possible, practice on level ground so you can get used to the controls before you move on to more challenging terrain.
Use a Slow Throttle Setting
Running the machine at a lower throttle gives you more time to react while learning the controls. Once you feel comfortable with how the skid steer responds, you can gradually increase speed.
Make Gradual Turns
Skid steers turn by driving the wheels on each side at different speeds. Turning gradually helps maintain control and prevents sudden pivots that can shift the load or damage the ground surface.
Focus on Smooth Bucket Movements
Practice raising, lowering, and tilting the bucket slowly before handling material. Smooth bucket movements help maintain balance and improve precision when scooping or dumping loads.
Keep the Bucket Low While Driving
When carrying material, keep the bucket low to the ground. A lower load improves stability and reduces the risk of tipping, especially when traveling across uneven surfaces.
Approach Material Piles Slowly
When scooping material, drive toward the pile at a controlled speed. As the bucket enters the material, curl it upward while moving forward to scoop efficiently and prevent the machine from stalling or bouncing.
Skid Steer Safety Tips
As with any heavy equipment, operating skid steers can be dangerous if certain safety measures aren’t taken. The most common causes of skid steer injuries and deaths are crushing and rollover accidents, and in most cases, they can be prevented.
Keep these tips in mind when operating a skid steer to help reduce the risk of rollovers, collisions, and other job site accidents. Always refer to your machine’s operating manual for a more complete overview of safe operation practices.
Check Your Surroundings Before Moving
Visibility behind the machine can be limited from inside the cab. Always look around the work area before driving, reversing, or turning, and make sure nearby workers know when it is safe to approach the machine.
Secure the Seatbelt and Safety Bar
Fasten the seatbelt and lower the safety restraint bar before operating the skid steer. These safety systems help keep the operator protected and must be engaged before most machines will allow the controls to activate.
Keep the Bucket Low While Traveling
When transporting material, carry the bucket low to the ground. Keeping the load low improves stability and reduces the risk of tipping, especially when driving across uneven surfaces.
Avoid Overloading the Bucket
Loads that exceed the machine’s rated capacity can shift unexpectedly and increase the risk of rollovers. Always check the skid steer’s operating capacity before lifting or transporting material.
Turn the Engine Off Before Exiting
Before leaving the cab, lower the attachment completely to the ground and shut off the engine. This prevents accidental machine movement while the operator is outside the skid steer.
Inspect the Machine Before Operation
Check the skid steer for damaged parts, loose attachments, or fluid leaks before starting the machine. A quick inspection helps identify issues that could affect safe operation.
Never Work Under a Raised Bucket
A raised lift arm or bucket can fall if hydraulic pressure drops or a control is accidentally activated. Never stand or work underneath a raised attachment unless it is properly supported with approved lift arm supports.
Stay Inside the Cab While Operating
Keep your arms, legs, and body inside the cab while the skid steer is running. Leaning out of the cab can expose you to moving parts or nearby obstacles.
What Can You Do With a Skid Steer?
A skid steer loader can perform a wide variety of tasks across construction, landscaping, and property maintenance projects.
Common uses include:
Site Preparation and Excavation
Contractors often rely on skid steers during early site preparation. The machine can remove soil, clear debris, and shape small work areas before larger construction begins. Its compact frame also allows crews to work close to foundations or structures where larger equipment may not fit.
Grading and Surface Work
Preparing a stable surface is another common role for a skid steer. Operators adjust the bucket angle to spread gravel, smooth uneven ground, or shape surfaces before paving or construction.
Landscaping Projects
Landscaping crews frequently bring skid steers onto residential and commercial properties to handle heavy materials. The machine helps move soil, mulch, or plants and can assist with reshaping terrain during installation projects.
Snow Clearing and Property Maintenance
During colder months, skid steers often handle snow clearing on parking lots, driveways, and sidewalks. Their maneuverability makes them effective in tight areas where larger plow trucks cannot easily operate.
Moving Materials Around a Jobsite
Material handling is another major role for skid steers. Operators transport loads such as gravel, dirt, or demolition debris across a work area, which helps reduce manual labor and keeps projects moving efficiently.
Expanding Capabilities With Attachments
Much of the skid steer’s versatility comes from its interchangeable attachments. Switching from a bucket to tools such as pallet forks, augers, or trenchers allows the same machine to handle many specialized tasks throughout a project.
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Renting a Skid Steer vs. Hiring One Out
The cost to rent a skid steer typically ranges from $200 to $500 per day, $600 to $1,500 per week and $1,200 to $4,000 per month. On the other hand, hiring a professional operator can cost around $65 to $95 per hour. Deciding between renting a skid steer yourself or hiring a pro comes down to the type of skid steer you choose, the job you’re doing and your skill level in operating the machine.
If you’re new to skid steers and need one for a complex job — like achieving a smooth, dip-free grade in someone’s backyard — you’re better off hiring a pro. Complex jobs require some finesse that comes only after many hours of practice, and will probably take you much longer to complete and ultimately cost you more.
Less complex jobs like digging and moving dirt are easier to get the hang of, even as a beginner. If you just need to move large amounts of material from point A to point B, renting a skid steer might make more sense. It’s also a better option if you’ll have a fair amount of downtime between uses of the skid steer, like intermittently hauling material during a weeklong landscaping project.
From dozing and grading to digging and transporting materials, skid steers are an invaluable tool for a wide range of projects. Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the main controls and spent some time practicing the basics, you’ll be ready to safely operate a skid steer for your next project. Take a look at our selection of skid steer rentals, or check out our guide comparing the top skid steer brands and how to choose the right one for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can beginners operate a skid steer?
Yes, beginners can operate a skid steer after receiving proper instruction and practicing basic control movements in a safe environment.
How hard is driving a skid steer for beginners?
Skid steer operation is relatively easy to learn, but it requires practice to develop smooth control and safe operating habits.
How long does it take to learn skid steer operation?
Many beginners can learn basic skid steer operation within a few hours of practice, though mastering the machine may take longer.
What are the controls on a skid steer?
Most skid steers use hand levers, foot pedals, or joystick systems to control driving, lift arms, and bucket movement.
What is the difference between ISO and H-pattern controls?
ISO controls on skid steers use joysticks to separate driving and bucket operation, while H-pattern controls rely on hand levers for movement and foot pedals for attachment control.
I want to learn how to operate a Bobcat. Where can I learn more about Bobcat controls?
You can find a Bobcat controls diagram in the machine’s operator’s manual, which is the most reliable source for the exact control layout of that specific model.
