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Cal Fire Dozer Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Heber, UT · On-site

$26.90 - $34.47/hr

Operates specialized heavy equipment such as road grader, dozer, compactors, and medium equipment ... May obtain wildland fire red card endorsement. * May obtain non-commercial pesticide applicator ...

Public Works Equipment Operator

Heber, UT · On-site

$26.90 - $34.47/hr

Operates specialized heavy equipment such as road grader, dozer, compactors, and medium equipment ... May obtain wildland fire red card endorsement. * May obtain non-commercial pesticide applicator ...

Cal Fire Dozer Operator information

See Utah salary details

$15

$23

$41

How much do cal fire dozer operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for cal fire dozer operator in Utah is $23.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cal Fire Dozer Operator position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Cal Fire Dozer Operator, you need expertise in heavy equipment operation, knowledge of fire behavior, and relevant training or certification such as a valid equipment operator's license and completion of Cal Fire safety programs. Familiarity with bulldozers, GPS navigation systems, radio communication devices, and fire suppression equipment is essential. Strong decision-making skills, composure under pressure, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These capabilities ensure that operators can safely and efficiently create fire breaks, support firefighting crews, and protect communities in high-risk, dynamic environments.

How much do bulldozer operators make?

Bulldozer operators, including Cal Fire dozer operators, typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. In firefighting and land management roles, additional certifications and working in hazardous environments can influence pay rates.

How to be a dozer operator for CAL FIRE?

To become a CAL FIRE dozer operator, candidates typically need a valid driver's license, experience operating heavy equipment, and completion of relevant training or certification in heavy equipment operation. Prior firefighting or land management experience is beneficial, and applicants must pass physical and background checks. Knowledge of fire behavior and safety protocols is also important for this role.

What is a Cal Fire Dozer Operator job?

A Cal Fire Dozer Operator is responsible for operating bulldozers to create fire lines, clear vegetation, and assist in wildfire suppression efforts. They work in challenging and hazardous conditions, often in remote areas, to help control and contain wildfires. Operators must have experience with heavy equipment, strong situational awareness, and the ability to work as part of a wildfire response team. This role requires physical endurance, emergency response training, and knowledge of fire behavior.

How much does a firefighter dozer operator make?

A Cal Fire dozer operator typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work full-time, with additional pay for overtime and hazardous duty conditions, and must operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers in wildfire suppression efforts.

What are typical daily responsibilities for a Cal Fire Dozer Operator during fire season?

During fire season, Cal Fire Dozer Operators are responsible for operating bulldozers to construct fire lines, clear vegetation, and create defensible spaces to help contain wildfires. Their day often involves collaborating closely with fire crews, using communications equipment to receive instructions, and performing regular maintenance checks on their machinery. Operators may be deployed to remote or rugged terrain for extended periods, sometimes working long shifts in challenging conditions. This vital work is performed as part of a larger incident response team, contributing directly to fire suppression and community safety.

How much does a dozer operator make for CAL FIRE?

A CAL FIRE dozer operator typically earns between $20 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and location. They often work seasonal or emergency response shifts and may receive additional pay for overtime or hazardous conditions.
Infographic showing various Cal Fire Dozer Operator job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,847 per year, or $23 per hour.
Wildland Firefighter - Insurance Division

Wildland Firefighter - Insurance Division

Capstone Fire Management

Salt Lake City, UT

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Wildland Firefighter – Insurance Division

A Wildland Firefighter in the Insurance Division participates in activities including fire prevention and mitigation, pre fire assessment, and fire suppression. A Wildland Firefighter in the insurance division reports to, and provides assistance to, a Wildland Fire Captain. In the absence of a Wildland Fire Captain, the Firefighter shall report directly to the Battalion Chief.

Responsibilities/Duties:

  • A Wildland Firefighter – Insurance Division, works in the day-to-day operation and maintenance of a fire station, or other site, and the apparatus and personnel assigned.
  • Firefighters may act in the capacity of Driver/Operator or Wildland Fire Captain as needed.
  • Conduct wildfire safety checks and pre-fire planning inspections.
  • Participate in drills and training programs.
  • Provide information to the public and participate in public relations events.
  • Able to work any shift assigned, including nights, holidays, and weekends. Insurance division members may be assigned to an incident for 14 -21 days and be dispatched to fires in the western United States. Work hours are typically 8-hour days; however, hours may vary based on the job and/or customer needs.
  • Operate company vehicles in a safe manner.
  • Operate tools and equipment in a safe manner.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High School diploma or GED
  • Current CPR/AED certification
  • Valid driver license with good driving record
  • Able to work any shift assigned, including nights, holidays, and weekends. Insurance division members may be assigned to an incident for 14 -21 days.
  • Ability to pass a work capacity test conducted during the initial onboarding process.
  • Proficient in the use of a computer, Ipad, etc., including systems such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other platforms for routine business use.
  • Knowledgeable in current wildland firefighting practices and procedures, particularly in the wildland urban interface (WUI) environment.
  • Prior wildland firefighting experience (USFS, BLM, Cal Fire, etc.) desired.
  • Advanced first aid and/or EMT desired.

Minimum Required NWCG/FEMA Courses:

L - 180 Human Factors in the Wildland Fire Service

S - 130 Wildland Firefighting

S – 131 Firefighter Type 1

S - 190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

IS - 100 Introduction to the Incident Command System

IS - 700 Introduction to the National Incident Management System

IS - 800 Introduction to the National Response Framework

Minimum Capstone Certification (within 60 days of hire):

  • Capstone – Insurance Firefighter Position Task Book (PTB)

Applicants will be required to undergo a background investigation prior to being considered for employment.