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Bush Hog Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator I

Milton, FL · On-site

$19.29 - $21.22/hr

Operates moderately light equipment such as, but not limited to, tractor, bush hog, side cutter ... Sitting: Frequent (sitting while operating equipment; sustained during load/unload of materials ...

Equipment Operator I

Milton, FL · On-site

$19.29 - $21.22/hr

Operates moderately light equipment such as, but not limited to, tractor, bush hog, side cutter ... experience operating. * Dump Truck * Front End Loader * Roller * Excavator * Backhoe * Grader

Equipment Operator I

Milton, FL · On-site

$19.29 - $21.22/hr

Operates moderately light equipment such as, but not limited to, tractor, bush hog, side cutter ... experience operating. * Dump Truck * Front End Loader * Roller * Excavator * Backhoe * Grader

Showing results 21-40

Bush Hog Operator information

See Florida salary details

$7

$13

$15

How much do bush hog operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for bush hog operator in Florida is $13.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.87 and $15.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bush hog operator?

A Bush Hog Operator is responsible for operating a rotary cutter, commonly known as a bush hog, to clear overgrown vegetation, brush, and small trees from land. They typically work in agricultural, construction, or landscaping settings to maintain fields, roadsides, and large properties. The job requires experience operating tractors and heavy equipment, as well as knowledge of safety procedures and maintenance. Bush Hog Operators help improve land usability and prevent overgrowth from becoming a fire hazard or obstruction.

What are some typical challenges faced by bush hog operators on the job?

Bush Hog Operators often work in varied outdoor environments, which can present challenges such as uneven terrain, hidden obstacles like rocks or debris, and inclement weather conditions. Operators need to stay alert to prevent accidents and minimize equipment damage while ensuring thorough land clearing. Adhering to safety protocols and conducting regular equipment checks are crucial in managing these challenges. Effective communication with team members and property owners also helps address specific job requirements or site hazards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the bush hog operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bush Hog Operator, you need experience operating heavy machinery, mechanical aptitude, and a solid understanding of land maintenance practices. Familiarity with tractor-mounted rotary cutters (bush hogs), routine equipment maintenance, and sometimes state or local safety certifications are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and good communication skills help operators work safely and efficiently, often as part of a landscaping or grounds maintenance team. These skills are crucial to ensure effective land clearing, minimize equipment downtime, and maintain safety standards on the job.

What are the most commonly searched types of Bush Hog Operator jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Bush Hog Operator jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Bush Hog Operator jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Bush Hog Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Bush Hog Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $27,301 per year, or $13.1 per hour.

$21.19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


School District of Manatee County rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

429th of 634 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

THE SCHOOL BOARD OF MANATEE COUNTY
Local Title: SPECIAL EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
State Title: Equipment Operator
JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB GOAL:
To provide skilled work in the operation of commercial grade heavy equipment.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  1. Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma.
  2. Technical training in subjects such as horticulture plus one (1) year experience in grounds maintenance, and three (3) years of experience in use of commercial heavy equipment. A comparable amount of training and experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.
  3. Possession of a valid Florida Commercial Driver's license (CDL) - Class A. Must be able to obtain license within 120 days of hire.
  4. Must have or be able to obtain within the probationary period, a valid state of Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Public Applicator's Restricted Use Pesticides License for Ornamental and Turf.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of the operation and use of dump trucks, tandem trailers, tractors, loaders and related equipment. Knowledge of the laws and regulations governing the operation of the previously mentioned equipment on the highways. Ability to operate tractors with attachments such as bush hog or side arm mover to cut grass and undergrowth along ditch banks, retention ponds and other areas with rough terrain. Ability to operate both riding and walk behind mowers. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. Knowledge of the occupational hazards involved and the safety precautions necessary in the operation of equipment. Ability to meet deadlines with severe time constraints.
REPORTS TO:
Supervisor, Sites Management
SUPERVISES:
N/A
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:
  1. Operate backhoe in the removal of stumps, digging ditches for underground utilities, transplanting trees, drainage swales, etc.
  2. Operate the lightning loader to pick up yard trash, cardboard, etc. from various school facilities and transport to County Landfill.
  3. Operate auger attachment to install poles.
  4. Operate tractor with various attachments.
  5. Operate grader for land development, athletic field maintenance, etc.
  6. Use lightning loader for the use of equipment relocation.
  7. Maintain accurate records of daily work and time and payroll information.
  8. Follow safety standards in performing work and report unsafe conditions to Lead/Manager in a timely manner.
  9. May be required to work after hours and/or weekends.
  10. Travel outside of Manatee County as required in the performance of duties.
  11. Perform other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Heavy work. Requires lifting operations involving weights up to fifty pounds. Requires lifting, holding, carrying, sitting, standing, walking, bending, stooping, finger dexterity, grasping, feeling, repetitive motions, talking, hearing, and visual acuity. The worker is exposed to primarily outdoor environmental conditions. The noise level in the work environment can be high at times. The employee frequently will work irregular or extended work hours while performing the duties of this job. Safety is the highest priority.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:
Salary and benefits shall be paid consistent with the District's approved compensation plan. Length of the work year and hours of employment shall be those established by the District.
EVALUATION:
Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board's policy on evaluation of personnel.
Board approved on:
Revised:
05/07/2001
08/14/2006
05/22/2018
SALARY SCHEDULE: AFSCME
PAYGRADE: 28B
SHORT TITLE: MPL005
STATE JOB CODE: 81020
Pay Scale
Negotiated Starting Hourly : $21.19

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