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Bulldozer Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Clean Harbors

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

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 ...

Kinder Morgan

Operator - BP Whiting

Hammond, IN · On-site

Operate bulldozer in successive passes over terrain to raise or lower terrain to specified level ... Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license and have willingness to use ...

Cranemasters

Driver/Operator - CDL A

Merrillville, IN · On-site

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

Cranemasters

Laborer - CDL A - Rerail

Schiller Park, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

Cranemasters

Laborer - CDL A

Merrillville, IN

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

Cranemasters

Laborer - CDL A

Merrillville, IN · On-site

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

Cranemasters

Laborer - CDL A- Rerail

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

Cranemasters

Track Laborer

Merrillville, IN · On-site

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

Cranemasters

Laborer - CDL A - Rerail

Schiller Park, IL

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

Cranemasters

Laborer - CDL A- Rerail

Merrillville, IN

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

Cranemasters

Track Laborer

Merrillville, IN

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

All JobsBulldozer Operator JobsBulldozer Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Bulldozer Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$23

$32

How much do bulldozer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for bulldozer operator in Chicago, IL is $23.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $27.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Bulldozer Operator Do?

A bulldozer operator works on a construction site or other job site. In this career, your duties revolve around using a bulldozer to excavate, clear, or demolish. Your responsibilities could also include operating other heavy equipment such as a crane or tractor in support of a job or project. Regardless of the type of project, you need to know safety regulations and procedures for safe operation of heavy equipment. You also need to know how to be efficient with bulldoze clearing and digging tasks.

What are Bulldozer Operators?

Bulldozer Operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery known as bulldozers to move earth, debris, and other materials on construction sites, mines, and other large projects. They are responsible for clearing and grading land, building roads, and preparing sites for construction. Bulldozer Operators must be knowledgeable about safety regulations, equipment maintenance, and reading site plans or blueprints. Their work is essential for ensuring that construction and infrastructure projects are completed efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Bulldozer Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectBulldozer OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often preferred, certification in heavy equipment operationSimilar certifications, often requiring OSHA training and equipment-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, road building, land clearingConstruction sites, demolition, excavation projects
Industry UsageHeavy civil construction, mining, land developmentConstruction, demolition, utility work

Both Bulldozer Operators and Excavator Operators work in construction and heavy industry environments, often requiring similar certifications. Bulldozer Operators primarily handle land clearing and grading with bulldozers, while Excavator Operators focus on digging, trenching, and material handling with excavators. Understanding these differences helps employers and workers choose the right role for their skills and project needs.

How much does a bulldozer driver make?

The average salary for a bulldozer operator is around $20 to $30 per hour, which equates to approximately $40,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and union status. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment tend to earn higher wages, especially in construction and mining environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Bulldozer Operators on construction sites?

Bulldozer Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating uneven terrain, maintaining precise control in tight spaces, and working in varying weather conditions. They must remain vigilant about safety regulations and coordinate closely with other crew members and site supervisors to ensure projects stay on schedule and hazards are minimized. Effective communication and adaptability are key to overcoming these challenges and maintaining efficient, safe operations.

What is the highest paid heavy machine operator?

The highest paid heavy machine operators are often those who specialize in operating large equipment like cranes, bulldozers, or excavators in high-demand industries such as oil and gas or construction. Experienced operators with certifications and extensive skills can earn over $70,000 annually, especially in regions with high construction activity or remote projects. Salary varies based on experience, location, and the complexity of the machinery operated.

Do I need a license to operate a dozer?

Yes, bulldozer operators typically need a commercial driver's license (CDL) or a specialized certification, depending on state or local regulations. Employers often require operators to complete training and obtain certification in heavy equipment operation to ensure safety and compliance.

What is the going rate for bulldozer work?

The pay for bulldozer operators typically ranges from $20 to $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages, especially for long-term or specialized projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bulldozer Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bulldozer Operator, you need solid mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant heavy equipment operator training or certification. Familiarity with GPS machine control systems, safety protocols, and equipment maintenance procedures is often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation of machinery and contribute to the successful completion of construction or land-clearing projects.
More about Bulldozer Operator jobs
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Bulldozer Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bulldozer Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 59% Physical, 40% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,829 per year, or $24 per hour.

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Clean Harbors

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Clean Harbors rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 88 rated recycling and waste

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: Illinois is 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.

Responsibilities
  • 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.

Qualifications
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.
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About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US

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