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Dirt Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Finish Grade Dirt Foreman

Fort Myers, FL ยท On-site

$29.25 - $35.50/hr

Skilled in operating a variety of heavy equipment for grading and dirt work. * Knowledge of soil types, moisture conditioning, and compaction methods. * Strong leadership, problem-solving, and ...

Finish Grade Dirt Foreman

Fort Myers, FL ยท On-site

$29.25 - $35.50/hr

Skilled in operating a variety of heavy equipment for grading and dirt work. * Knowledge of soil types, moisture conditioning, and compaction methods. * Strong leadership, problem-solving, and ...

Finish Grade Dirt Foreman

Fort Myers, FL ยท On-site

$29.25 - $35.50/hr

Skilled in operating a variety of heavy equipment for grading and dirt work. * Knowledge of soil types, moisture conditioning, and compaction methods. * Strong leadership, problem-solving, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Dirt Operator information

See Florida salary details

$24.7K

$42.6K

$65.8K

How much do dirt operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for dirt operator in Florida is $42,560.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,700.00 and $46,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 cities in Florida are hiring for Dirt Operator jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Dirt Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Dirt Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,560 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Dirt and Roadway Laborers and Operators

Watson Civil Construction

Brooksville, FL โ€ข On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Watson Civil Construction, Inc. is a premier heavy/highway civil contractor working throughout Florida specializing in large site infrastructure, underground, and road work.
We are seeking Dirt and Roadway Laborers and Operators for the Pinellas County area
Benefits include:
  • Competitive Salary
  • PTO eligible after 90 days
  • 6 paid holidays
  • Health, dental, vision, life, STD, LTD after 60 days
  • 401(k) match

Watson Civil Construction is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law. DFWP
Job Type: Full-time