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Bulldozer Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Bulldozer Driver information

How much can you make with a bulldozer?

Bulldozer operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages, especially in construction, mining, or infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges faced by bulldozer drivers on construction sites?

Bulldozer drivers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating uneven or unstable terrain, and coordinating with other heavy equipment operators to ensure safety. Managing tight project deadlines while maintaining precision and adhering to safety regulations can also be demanding. Effective communication with site supervisors and team members is essential to avoid hazards and ensure the efficient progress of earthmoving tasks.

How do you become a bulldozer driver?

To become a bulldozer driver, you typically need to complete a high school diploma or equivalent, gain experience operating heavy machinery, and obtain relevant certifications such as a commercial driver's license (CDL) or specific equipment operation licenses. Employers often require on-the-job training or apprenticeships to develop the necessary skills for operating bulldozers safely and effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bulldozer driver?

To thrive as a Bulldozer Driver, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a valid heavy equipment operator license or certification. Familiarity with operating bulldozers, GPS grading systems, and routine maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to safety, effective communication, and reliability are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, precise, and efficient operation of heavy machinery on construction sites, minimizing risks and project delays.

What is the difference between Bulldozer Driver vs Excavator Operator?

AspectBulldozer DriverExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license, equipment-specific trainingOperator certification, equipment-specific training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, road building, land clearingConstruction sites, excavation, trenching
Industry UsageHeavy earthmoving, grading, land clearingDigging, trenching, material handling

Both Bulldozer Drivers and Excavator Operators require specialized training and certifications. Bulldozer Drivers typically work in land clearing and grading, while Excavator Operators focus on digging and trenching. Although their roles differ, they often collaborate on construction projects, making their skills complementary.

What is a bulldozer driver?

Bulldozer drivers, also known as bulldozer operators, are skilled workers who operate heavy machinery called bulldozers. They use these machines to move earth, clear land, grade surfaces, and perform other tasks on construction, mining, or roadwork sites. Bulldozer drivers must have a good understanding of safety protocols, machinery maintenance, and site plans to ensure efficient and safe operation. They often work as part of a team and may be required to read blueprints or follow instructions from supervisors.

How much do bulldozer drivers make an hour?

Bulldozer drivers typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages, especially in construction and mining environments.

What are popular job titles related to Bulldozer Driver jobs in California?

For Bulldozer Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bulldozer Driver jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Bulldozer Driver jobs in California are:

Bulldozer Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bulldozer Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 34% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

CleanHarbors

Newhall, CA • On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Clean Harbors' National Remediation team is seeking Traveling Heavy Equipment Operators. The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate a variety of equipment, such as, backhoes, bulldozers, loader, screeners, excavators as well as other equipment. Candidates must also be willing and able to perform manual labor as required. 
Travel Requirements: Equipment Operator (95-100% Travel). The typical travel rotation for this group is 6 weeks out on a project (not coming home on weekends) and then 1 week off. Flying is required to get to project locations unless it is a local job.

Location: Indiana preferred all other locations will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Pay Info: $26-32 DOE

Per Diem available while traveling, individual accommodations provided- single occupancy room with kitchenette- typically a long-term type of hotel property. Prevailing wage and overtime available depending on the job site.

**Year-round consistent work with time off every 6 weeks to recharge. 
Position Overview:

  • The Heavy Equipment Operator (Traveling) operates heavy equipment such as bulldozers, compactors, excavators, etc.
  • This individual will work either at a Clean Harbors facility or at a customer location. 
  • This position will require 95% travel in all 48 contiguous states (all travel expenses are covered). 

Why work for Clean Harbors?

  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority and we live it 3-6-5;
  • Competitive wages - Based on Experience;
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment;
  • Group 401K with company matching component;
  • Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement;
  • Positive and safe work environments;
  • Opportunities for advancement.

What does it take to work for Clean Harbors?

  • 3+ years of previous experience in operating heavy equipment required;
  • Previous experience operating Bull Dozers, and Excavators required;
  • Previous construction experience (Earthworks) preferred;
  • Must be able to travel 95-100% - Schedule 6 weeks traveling followed by 1-week home PAID;
  • Current valid driver license with an acceptable driving record required.

Physical Requirements

  • This position is physically demanding, and candidates must be able to navigate varying site conditions where steep slopes and rugged terrain may be present and walk several miles per day. Candidates must be able to lift 50 pounds unassisted and wear personal protective equipment that may restrict movement, when required.
  • Requires walking and standing for extended periods of time, sitting in equipment that may vibrate or jostle, climbing and working at heights, pulling/pushing, carrying, grasping, reaching, crawling, stooping, crouching, and balance. Requires speaking, listening, understanding, and writing English; color determination, depth perception, clarity of vision, and 20/20 eyesight (corrected or uncorrected).
  • Maintains a clean and organized work environment, and a clean personal appearance. Facial hair must always comply with the company's respiratory protection facial hair policy.

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer.  

Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.  

Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company.  

Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making.  

Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.  

#CH 

#LI-SE1

  • Competent and proficient operation of the following: excavator (60K LB and up), front end loader (3CY and up), articulating dump truck (25CY and up), bulldozer (150HP and up), motor grader, soil compactor, articulating water truck, compact loader, compact excavator, and other construction equipment.  Minimum of 10-years of experience operating this type of equipment;
  • Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor;
  • Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required;
  • Assures unit is never operated in an unsafe manner or in a manner which is inconsistent with Standard Operating Procedures;
  • Complete and submits all associated paperwork as required for waste tracking.
  • Perform occasional labor work;
  • Ensuring that Health and Safety is the number one priority by complying with all safe work practices, policies, and processes and acting in a safe manner at all times;
  • Other duties as required.

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