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Dirt Construction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Laborer - Dirt

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Perform tasks involving physical labor at highway and heavy construction project sites.Will operate a variety of hand and power tools.Dig dirt using shovels and machinery.May clean and prepare sites ...

Foreman Dirt

Lewisville, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Position Summary Crescent Constructors is seeking a Dirt Foreman to lead and manage a crew performing earthwork and site development activities on water and wastewater treatment plants, pump stations ...

Laborer - Dirt

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Perform tasks involving physical labor at highway and heavy construction project sites. * Will operate a variety of hand and power tools. * Dig dirt using shovels and machinery. * May clean and ...

Laborer - Dirt

Petoskey, MI · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Perform tasks involving physical labor at highway and heavy construction project sites. * Will operate a variety of hand and power tools. * Dig dirt using shovels and machinery. * May clean and ...

Laborer - Dirt

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Perform tasks involving physical labor at highway and heavy construction project sites. * Will operate a variety of hand and power tools. * Dig dirt using shovels and machinery. * May clean and ...

Dirt Estimator

Lewiston, ME · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong understanding of heavy civil construction means, methods, equipment, and production rates ... Dirt Estimator: * HCSS HeavyBid experience * Agtek experience * Stack experience * Central or ...

Showing results 21-40

Dirt Construction information

See salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do dirt construction jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for dirt construction in the United States is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in dirt construction?

To thrive in Dirt Construction, you need a solid understanding of earthmoving techniques, site preparation, and equipment operation, typically gained through hands-on experience or vocational training. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and GPS-based grading systems is crucial, and OSHA safety certification is often required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills help individuals excel in dynamic and sometimes hazardous environments. These skills ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to the required specifications.

What are some common challenges faced by workers in dirt construction, and how can they be addressed?

Workers in dirt construction often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, operating heavy machinery safely, and ensuring projects stay on schedule despite site obstacles. To address these issues, crews typically receive thorough safety training, conduct regular equipment inspections, and maintain clear communication with project managers and other trades on-site. Adapting to changing site conditions and staying proactive with planning are key to overcoming these challenges and keeping projects moving smoothly.

What is the difference between Dirt Construction vs Excavator Operator?

AspectDirt ConstructionExcavator Operator
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation licensesOSHA safety training, excavator-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor projects involving earthmovingConstruction sites, operating heavy machinery like excavators
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, earthmoving contractorsConstruction firms, excavation services

While Dirt Construction involves general earthmoving and site preparation, an Excavator Operator specializes in operating excavators for digging, lifting, and moving materials. Both roles require safety certifications and work in similar outdoor construction environments, but the Excavator Operator focuses on operating specific machinery, whereas Dirt Construction encompasses broader earthwork tasks.

What is dirt construction?

Dirt construction refers to the phase of construction projects that involves the movement, grading, and preparation of soil or earth. This often includes tasks such as excavation, grading, trenching, and the creation of building pads or roadbeds. Dirt construction is essential for establishing a stable foundation for structures, roads, and infrastructure projects. Professionals in this field use heavy machinery like bulldozers, excavators, and graders to shape the landscape according to engineering plans. Proper dirt construction ensures the durability and safety of the completed project.
More about Dirt Construction jobs

What cities are hiring for Dirt Construction jobs?

Cities with the most Dirt Construction job openings:

What states have the most Dirt Construction jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dirt Construction jobs include:

Infographic showing various Dirt Construction job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,541 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Laborer - Dirt

Team Elmer's

Traverse City, MI • On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Team Elmer's rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Team Elmer's seeks to fill several openings for Dirt Laborers for a spring start. This position will have the general responsibility to provide support and assistance to the other skilled workers working on the project.Duties and Responsibilities:Perform tasks involving physical labor at highway and heavy construction project sites.Will operate a variety of hand and power tools.Dig dirt using shovels and machinery.May clean and prepare sites, dig trenches, set braces to support the sides of excavations, clean up rubble and debris and remove waste materials.Read grades, lift and carry objects & materials of various weights.Help maintain equipment by keeping it clean and in proper working order. Report any damaged or unsafe equipment to foreman immediately.Practice safety at all times including driving of company vehicles or use of equipment. Use PPE while on jobsite e.g. hard hat safety glasses, ear protection, high visibility vest, steel toe boots, pants, and gloves.Take initiative and anticipate what needs to be done.Work in conjunction and as a team with your crew.May assist other craft workers.Will be required, as needed, to regulate traffic on jobsites.Other duties as assignedThe above list of job duties is not exclusive or exhaustive and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks as may reasonably be expected within the scope of the position.QUALIFICATIONS:Minimum of 6 months construction work experience with references lagging and welding and small equipment experience with mini excavators or skid steer loaders idealValid license, CDL preferred or the ability to obtain within one yearHigh School Diploma or GED preferredClean driving record for past 5 yearsAbility to pass pre-employment physical and drug screenPrevious experience laboring, farming or performing other manual work preferred but not requiredAbility to complete tasks like handling power tools, running heavy equipment, raking and shoveling as neededAbility to take direction and work together in a team settingAbility and willingness to learn and understand your role on the teamAbility to work long hours and perform repetitive lifting, carrying, climbing, and walking. Repetitive lifting could be 40 or more pounds at any one timeAbility to work long hours and 5-6 days a week in all environmental conditions.Good work ethic, punctuality and alertnessMechanical -- Knowledge of equipment, machines and tools including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenanceBuilding and Construction-- Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.Ability to follow all company, DOT, OSHA, and MiOSHA safety rules.EEO/AA

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