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Dirt Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Schaffer's Mill is excited to announce the exceptional career opportunity of Equipment Operator ... remove dirt, debris, and other materials or refuse. • Returns equipment to the designated ...

Equipment Operator

Truckee, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Schaffer's Mill is excited to announce the exceptional career opportunity of Equipment Operator ... remove dirt, debris, and other materials or refuse. • Returns equipment to the designated ...

... dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks. Receiving ...

... dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks. Receiving ...

Key Accountabilities Production Duties Execute manufacturing process by operating designated ... Ability to work inside and occasionally outside exposed to heat, cold, dirt, and noise. Wage range ...

... dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks. Receiving ...

... dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks. Receiving ...

... dust, dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing * Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks.

... dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks. Receiving ...

... dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks. Receiving ...

Equipment Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Load and move dirt, rocks, equipment, and materials, using trucks, shovels, graders, or related ... Demonstrated experience operating excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, compactors, articulated dump ...

... dust, dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing * Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks.

... dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks. Receiving ...

... dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks. Receiving ...

... dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks. Receiving ...

... dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks. Receiving ...

... dust, dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing * Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks.

... dust, dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing * Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks.

... dust, dirt, noise, odors, heat, cold, etc. Things You Will be Doing * Operating specific motorized warehouse machinery like forklifts, order/cherry picker, reach truck, electric pallet-jacks.

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Showing results 1-20

Dirt Operator information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$56.2K

$86.8K

How much do dirt operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for dirt operator in California is $56,206.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $60,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Dirt Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectDirt OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, OSHA safety trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, earthmoving projectsConstruction sites, earthmoving, demolition
Industry UsageCommon in construction, landscaping, miningCommon in construction, demolition, mining

The Dirt Operator and Excavator Operator roles share similar credentials and work environments, often overlapping in construction and earthmoving projects. The main difference lies in the equipment operated: Dirt Operators typically handle various earthmoving machinery, while Excavator Operators specifically operate excavators. Both roles are essential in construction and mining industries, with similar safety training and certifications required.

What are some typical challenges dirt operators face when working on large construction sites?

Dirt Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating uneven terrain, working in varying weather conditions, and coordinating with other heavy equipment operators to maintain site efficiency and safety. Managing tight project deadlines and adapting to unexpected site conditions, like soil instability or underground obstacles, are also common. Effective communication with supervisors, surveyors, and other team members is essential to ensure tasks are completed accurately and safely.

What is a dirt operator?

Dirt Operators are skilled workers who operate heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, to move, grade, and level earth on construction sites. Their primary responsibilities include preparing land for building foundations, roads, and other infrastructure projects. Dirt Operators must understand site plans, follow safety protocols, and maintain their equipment. This role is critical in the construction industry, ensuring that projects begin with a properly prepared site.

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

To thrive as a Dirt Operator, you typically need experience in heavy equipment operation, knowledge of site grading, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, GPS grading systems, and relevant safety certifications like OSHA are often required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and communication skills help ensure safe and efficient operations on construction sites. These competencies are crucial for maintaining project timelines, ensuring safety, and delivering high-quality earthmoving results.
Infographic showing various Dirt Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,206 per year, or $27 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Troon

Truckee, CA • On-site

$23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Troon rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 123 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 28 rated golf clubs


Job description

Schaffer's Mill is excited to announce the exceptional career opportunity of Equipment Operator! Qualified candidates will thrive in a hospitality environment and be highly focused on providing superior service.

Pay: $23–$26/hour Based On Experience 

Key Responsibilities of the Equipment Operator:
• Operates all equipment used in daily course maintenance.
• Mows greens, tees, aprons, and approaches, including inaccessible areas, with gang mowers.
• Operates sod cutter and may assist in the fertilization of greens, tees, fairways, roughs, and related areas.
• Mows fairways and rough areas and operates other equipment as directed.
• Maintains gasoline, diesel, oil, and other equipment fluid levels daily.
• Reports equipment problems and failures to the mechanic immediately.
• Uses loaders to remove dirt, debris, and other materials or refuse.
• Returns equipment to the designated location at the maintenance facility, thoroughly cleaned and serviced, as directed by the mechanic or Assistant Superintendent.
• Operates equipment safely and maintains awareness of other associates in the work area.
• Incorporates safe work practices into job performance.
• Performs other duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications:
• High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to six months of related experience and/or training; or an equivalent combination of education and   experience.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Other Qualifications:
• Regular and reliable attendance
• Ability to read and speak English may be required to perform the duties of the job.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.


What Troon employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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Get the full story on Breakroom


Troon Golf logo

About Troon Golf

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Troon started as one facility in 1990 and has since grown to become the world's largest professional club management company. We offer careers around the world at all levels of golf operations, opportunities for professional development, growth opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package. Our goal is to create extraordinary guest and member experiences through personalized service, consistency, and uncompromising attention to detail. For more information about the Troon Experience, please visit

Industry

Fitness and sports centers, hospitality services and traveler accommodation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Scottsdale, AZ, US